Cox Enterprises

Atlanta – October 16, 2026 -- Cox Enterprises awarded $30,000 grants from the James M. Cox Foundation to each of its three 2026 Cox Conserves Heroes: David Schick, Nithya Tammana and Detroit Hives. Each winner directs the funds to an environmental nonprofit of their choice.

The winners were announced at a ceremony on Oct. 14. Since 2008, the program has recognized more than 200 individuals and nonprofits. Its criteria align with Cox's corporate goals to save energy and water, reduce waste, and protect and restore natural habitats and species.

Cox pledges 1 billion pounds of plastic diversion by 2034

The awards come as Cox widens its environmental agenda. In 2026, the company added habitat and species protection to its existing goals on water, waste and carbon. Cox has invested $3 billion in cleantech businesses and, with the James M. Cox Foundation, contributed more than $800 million to philanthropic causes.

By 2034, Cox aims to:

Birmingham, Ala. – September 16, 2026 -- Tom Beckbe, the Birmingham-based outdoor apparel maker, has secured a minority investment from Cox Outdoors, the newest division of Cox Enterprises.

Cox Enterprises Backs Family-Run Outdoor Brand

Cox Outdoors was created to partner with leading outdoor consumer brands, targeting conservation initiatives and long-term generational growth rather than short-term returns. Alex Taylor, chairman and CEO of Cox Enterprises, said the partnership reflects shared family values and a conservation ethic between the two companies.

Founders Retain Control, Team and Operations

Tom Beckbe was founded in 2015 by Radcliff and Mary Menge and will continue to be independently run by its founders with the same team and values. Radcliff Menge, co-founder, said the Cox partnership will allow the company to deepen its focus on product quality, customer service and conservation support.