Principled Business Awards Dinner
An inspiring evening recognizing investors, executives, founders, and ambassadors who live out the principles of capitalism and change the narrative about business.
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Join us for an elegant dinner and awards ceremony honoring leaders who create real value, stand up for free enterprise, and set an example for others.
Ticket sales are donation-deductible in the U.S., as Principled Business is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
About the Awards
Capitalism is one of the greatest forces for good in human history. But too often, the stories people hear are about greed, corruption, or cronyism, not about principled leaders who innovate, empower others, and create prosperity.
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At Principled Business, we are changing the story. Through these awards, we shine a spotlight on the people building businesses and making investments that embody the principles of capitalism:
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Real Value Creation
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Respect for Individual Agency
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Voluntary Cooperation
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Meritocratic Opportunity
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Bottom-Up Experimentation
The Principled Business Awards elevate role models, inspire the next generation, and strengthen a global network of principled leaders.
Last Year's Winner Spotlight
Joe Lonsdale – Principled Business Award Leader 2024
Last year, the Principled Business Award for Leader of the Year was awarded to Joe Lonsdale (Founder of 8VC), for his exceptional leadership as a venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and advocate for free markets.
Joe has co-founded multiple successful companies, including Palantir, Addepar, and OpenGov, that solve real problems, create jobs, and drive innovation across industries. Through 8VC, he invests in visionary founders tackling society’s biggest challenges, from healthcare to infrastructure, with the belief that entrepreneurs are the true engine of human progress.
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Beyond business, Joe is a vocal defender of capitalism, regularly writing and speaking about the importance of free enterprise, personal responsibility, and innovation in shaping a better future. His work exemplifies the mission of Principled Business: to showcase and support leaders who live out the principles of capitalism and inspire others to do the same.
Award Categories
Investor of the Year
An investor who champions entrepreneurs, fosters growth responsibly, and advances free enterprise.
Executive of the Year
A leader who drives performance, builds strong teams, and keeps capitalism’s principles at the heart of the business.
Founder of the Year
A founder whose company is built on principled business practices and is creating long-term value for customers, employees, and investors.
Ambassador of the Year
A leader who actively advocates for capitalism through speaking, outreach, and community engagement.
Event Details
Date: October 16 - 8:00 pm ET
Location: Sony Hall
Attire: Black tie optional / Cocktail
Evening Schedule:
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Networking Reception
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Dinner Service
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Awards Ceremony
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Closing Remarks & Networking
Your ticket purchase directly supports Principled Business programs that engage, educate, and activate business leaders to defend and promote capitalism.
Tickets & Tables
All tickets are donation-deductible. Seating is limited.
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Individual Ticket – Includes dinner and awards ceremony access.
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Table for 10 – Includes reserved seating and recognition in the program.
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Sponsorship Opportunities – Premium seating, branding, and recognition in all event materials.
Nominate a Leader
Help us spotlight the people who are changing perceptions of business.
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When nominating, please share:
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Nominee’s name, role, and organization
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Award category
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Why they are an example for others
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How they live out and stand up for the principles of capitalism
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Links to media or milestones (optional)
Why This Matters
At a time when polls show young people favoring socialism over capitalism, and political rhetoric often targeting successful business leaders, we must highlight the investors, executives, and entrepreneurs proving that principled capitalism works and benefits everyone.
By honoring these leaders, we not only celebrate their achievements but also inspire others to follow their example, building a freer, and more prosperous future.