Nominations open to recognize companies driving profit with purpose
MINNETONKA, Minn. — The Platinum Group has officially opened nominations for the 2026 Meaningful Capitalism Awards, honoring business leaders, companies and initiatives that exemplify a balance between profitability, purpose and community impact. Now in its fourth year, the program is expanding its mission through a new philanthropic partnership with Wallin Education Partners, marking the first time the awards will directly benefit a nonprofit organization.
Wallin Education Partners expands access to higher education and career opportunities for students from under-resourced communities through financial aid, advising and career development. A portion of event proceeds will go directly to the organization.
“We’re honored to be part of this celebration of purpose-driven business,” said Dr. Mohamed Sallam, President and CEO, Wallin Education Partners. “The Meaningful Capitalism Awards reflect our shared belief that success comes from integrity, leadership, and investment in people – values that are at the core of Wallin’s work with students.”
Marnie Ochs-Raleigh, founder and CEO of Evolve Systems is Board Chair of the 2026 Meaningful Capitalism Awards. A longtime advocate for purpose-driven business, Ochs-Raleigh was first honored by the MCA in its inaugural year, a recognition that sparked a lasting connection with the program. Drawn to its mission of aligning business success with community impact, she became an active champion of the awards, helping promote the 2025 event and expand its reach across Minnesota’s business community.
“It’s an honor to be recognized by the Platinum Group and asked to step into this role,” said Ochs-Raleigh. “As the founder of a company built with community at its core, we’ve always led with purpose and people first—we were a ‘B Corp’ before that designation existed. Serving as Chair of the MCA is deeply meaningful as I continue building the legacy I hope to leave in the business community. And I’m especially proud that this year’s awards will uplift a nonprofit partner—because when business and philanthropy come together, the ripple effect is powerful.
The MCA award program celebrates organizations that embody the principles of Meaningful Capitalism™ and where success is measured not only by financial performance, but also by how companies invest in their people, strengthen communities, and lead with integrity and environmental responsibility.
Nominations are open now through January 15, 2026. To view past recipients and learn more about the nomination process, please visit the Platinum Group Meaningful Capitalism Awards website.
Following review by a panel of judges, finalists will be announced April 8, 2026, and honorees revealed live at the annual Meaningful Capitalism Awards Reception on May 5, 2026, at The Metropolitan Ballroom in Golden Valley, Minn.
About the Meaningful Capitalism Awards
Founded by the Platinum Group in honor of its late founder Dean Bachelor, the Meaningful Capitalism Awards celebrate companies that prove profitability and purpose can thrive together. The MCA showcases leaders redefining success through ethical business practices, community engagement, and sustainable growth.