A prestigious award that recognizes exceptional giving by Minnesota businesses will be presented to ShelettaMakesMeLaugh.com, (SMML) the media and marketing company founded by WCCO Radio host and entrepreneur Sheletta Brundidge.
“God has blessed me to be a blessing,” said Brundidge. “I’m proud and humbled to be part of the legacy and now honoree of the Keystone Program.”
SMML is one of three local businesses to be named as a 2026 Honored Company. They will be recognized at the upcoming 50th annual Minnesota Keystone Luncheon.
When the Keystone Program began in 1976, it was known as the 5% Club; it was originally established by 23 visionary Minnesota companies to set an example that would encourage charitable giving among other Minnesota companies.
Now administered by the Minneapolis Regional Chamber, members of the Keystone program pledge to give 2% or more of pre-tax income to charitable causes.
SMML commits approximately 10% of its profits to support community causes, organizations, families, and entrepreneurs.
“This award means so much to me because the Keystone Program has been instrumental in creating the culture of corporate giving that our state is known for,” Brundidge said. “Through this program, companies have built our state’s reputation as a place where the highest honor comes from being Minnesota-Nice.”
Through ShelettaMakesMeLaugh.com, Brundidge has a record of giving both financial resources and in-kind services to nonprofits, community organizations and Black-owned businesses.
SMML's giving program supports public health campaigns, services for people with autism, and programs that address economic disparity, domestic violence and literacy. SMML regularly hosts small business workshops, job fairs, and events to help entrepreneurs get access to resources, achieve sustainability and build generational wealth.
The companies selected for the recognition were chosen by a volunteer committee that evaluated the submissions and considered their contributions, engagement and community impact.
Brundidge will receive her award at a luncheon to be held on December 11 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. The three winners will be recognized by the state’s top business professionals and thought leaders who will be in attendance.
