BEACON AWARDS
Join us to celebrate innovation, leadership, and transformative impact at the 2026 Beacon Awards as we honor Miami’s economic leaders.
The Beacon Awards is a signature celebration where Greater Miami’s brightest leaders, groundbreaking businesses, and impactful institutions take center stage. Join us as we honor nominees and winners of six target industry categories, the small business of the year and the individual winners of the Jay Malina Award, Founders Award winner and The One2Watch.
Click here to find out how you can apply to be one of this year’s award nominees. This incredible night not only tells the story of nominees that have contributed to Miami’s continued growth, it’s a unique opportunity to network with more than 600 of Miami’s leaders and dignitaries.
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“For more than four decades, The Beacon Council has been a trusted steward of Greater Miami’s economic future—partnering with business, government, and community leaders to build a stronger, more resilient region. We are eager to honor those who through their catalytic investments, and collective leadership have shaped our dynamic economy.”
THE AWARDS
JAY MALINA AWARD
Since the inception of The Beacon Awards, the Jay Malina Award has been presented to the executive who has done the most to enhance Miami-Dade County through professional success and civic participation. The award honors the late Jay T. Malina, Founder and Co-Chair of the One Community One Goal initiative that established a master plan and implementation process focused on job creation for Greater Miami. Jay's legacy and his vision for a greater Miami-Dade County lives on. Jay's wife, Jana Sigars-Malina, and their daughter Powell proudly join The Beacon Council annually to present the Jay Malina Award to an individual who best combines economic development and business success with positive community involvement.
FOUNDERS AWARD
Established in 1985 by Sidney Levin, Theodore Hoepner, and Merrett R. Stierheim, The Beacon Council was built on the belief that economic success is a collective effort, one that thrives when business leaders, public officials, and community stakeholders unite with a shared purpose. This award recognizes those who carry forward that legacy, demonstrating visionary leadership, strategic foresight, and an unwavering dedication to advancing Miami’s prosperity.
TARGET INDUSTRY
Recognizes six (6) Miami-Dade County-based businesses, organizations and/or leaders that are driving sustainable, inclusive, and competitive economic growth in each of Greater Miami’s target industries:
• Aviation & Aerospace
• Finance
• Life Sciences & Healthcare
• Technology
• Trade & Logistics
• Professional Services
SMALL
BUSINESS
This award honors an exceptional Miami-Dade-based small business that punches above its weight—driving meaningful impact, creating opportunity, and helping to shape the region’s economic future. With fewer than 50 employees and a track record of at least three years, this company exemplifies the innovation, resilience, and community commitment that define Greater Miami’s entrepreneurial spirit. Across industries, small businesses are the backbone of our economy—and this award recognizes one standout enterprise making a big difference.
ONE2WATCH
The One2Watch Award honors a bold, visionary leader under 45 who is shaping what’s next for Greater Miami. This honoree represents the future of our economy—driven by purpose, grounded in innovation, and committed to building a region that is resilient, forward thinking, and globally connected. They are not just making waves in their industry—they are redefining leadership in a city known for transformation. As Greater Miami accelerates into its next chapter, the One2Watch is already out front, showing us what progress looks like.
“The Beacon Awards are more than a celebration. They recognize the leaders and companies actively shaping the trajectory of Miami’s economy. Each honoree represents the investment, innovation, and leadership that drive job creation, attract capital, and position Miami as one of the most dynamic economies in the world."
OUR HISTORY
The Beacon Awards, established in 2002, celebrate individuals, businesses, and organizations driving Miami’s economic growth and innovation. Over the years, the awards have recognized excellence across industries like aviation, finance, healthcare, and technology, with notable honors such as the Jay Malina Award, which celebrates individuals enhancing Miami-Dade through professional success and civic engagement. Now in its second year, the Founders Award continues to honor those who embody the founding principles of The Beacon Council, further cementing the event as a cornerstone of Miami's business and economic community.
"As Greater Miami continues to rise on the global stage, The Beacon Council remains steadfast in its role as a trusted partner and steward of the region’s economic journey. Alongside business, government, and community leaders, we proudly celebrate the bold vision, transformative investments, and collective leadership that are fueling innovation, strengthening our economy, and shaping a more vibrant future for generations to come."
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