Miami’s most influential business celebration is back, bigger, brighter, and marking a major milestone.

The Miami-Dade Beacon Council Foundation has officially announced the return of The Beacon Awards, a signature event recognizing the changemakers, innovators, and institutions powering the region’s economic momentum. This year’s awards carry added significance: they coincide with the 40th anniversary of the Beacon Council, Miami-Dade’s official economic development organization.

Founded in 1985, the Beacon Council has helped transform Greater Miami from a regional player into a global business hub, recruiting major corporate names like Telemundo, Citadel, Ryder, MSC Cruises, and Univision, and guiding the city through economic shocks from Hurricane Andrew to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This 40th anniversary stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and long-term vision. By attracting investment, driving growth, and expanding opportunity, we’ve built an economy rooted in resilience and the Beacon Awards spotlight those leading the way into our next chapter.

said Rodrick Miller, President and CEO of the Beacon Council.

Honoring Miami’s Economic Trailblazers

Now in its 18th edition, The Beacon Awards will highlight excellence across six target industries, Aviation & Aerospace, Finance, Life Sciences & Healthcare, Technology, Trade & Logistics, and Professional Services, in addition to three cornerstone honors:

• Small Business Award: Recognizing a high-impact local company with fewer than 50 employees that exemplifies innovation and economic contribution.
• One2Watch Award: Celebrating a visionary leader under 45 reshaping Miami’s economic future.
• Jay Malina Award: Named after the late civic leader and One Community One Goal co-founder, this honor celebrates a local executive combining business success with deep civic engagement.
• Founders Award (New in 2025): Awarded by the Host Committee, it will honor an individual or organization carrying forward the vision of the Council’s founders by advancing public-private collaboration and economic transformation.

Nominations Now Open

Nominations and applications for all categories are now open, with no fee to apply. The deadline to submit is June 27, 2025 and this year, the call to action is clear: don’t wait.

I see firsthand the grit, creativity, and impact our founders bring to the community every day. The Beacon Awards are a meaningful opportunity to shine a light on that work and I encourage our founders to apply and be recognized for the role they’re playing in shaping Miami’s economic future.

said Noelle Jackson, Founder of The HUB @ Office Logic

Whether you’re a startup founder, a rising executive, or leading a high-performing team, now is the time to step into the spotlight. Nominate your company, your colleague, your client or yourself. The Beacon Awards are designed to elevate the stories and leaders who are actively shaping the region’s future.

Recognizing standout efforts in innovation, leadership, impact, and collaboration, the awards offer a unique opportunity to gain visibility, forge strategic connections, and be recognized at one of Miami’s most high profile gatherings of business and civic leaders.

Submit your nomination or application here and make sure it’s in by Friday, June 27, 2025.

In October, the ceremony promises a mix of high level networking and celebration of leadership across sectors. For local startups, established firms, and civic institutions, the event also offers a rare platform to align with Miami’s future-forward growth narrative.

A Legacy of Impact

Since launching the One Community One Goal strategy, the Beacon Council has worked across the public and private sectors to guide Greater Miami’s evolution into a magnet for global talent and investment. In addition to industry specific growth, the organization has championed equitable development, supported small businesses during crises, and cultivated regional leadership.

This year’s Beacon Awards aim to not just reflect on past achievements but to energize the next generation of leadership.

Miami is a city defined by reinvention, and our strength has always come from working together to shape what’s next.

said Rodrick Miller, President and CEO of the Beacon Council.