Torch Awards Entry Criteria

BBB Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics is designed to promote not only the importance of ethical business practices, but also the willingness and efforts by outstanding businesses that demonstrate a solid commitment to marketplace trust. Each BBB Torch award winner has a unique opportunity to receive public recognition for their excellence in ethical business practices.  

BBB Torch Award criteria are broken down into four categories: 

Criteria 1: Character
As a leader, explain how you behave intentionally and communicate with your leadership team, employees, customers and stakeholders in a way that is consistent with your beliefs.

Criteria 2: Culture
Illustrate how your organization works toward a culture of trust through clarity of purpose, empowering employees, and opportunities for growth.

Criteria 3:  Customers
Give examples of internal practices your organization uses to build better customer relationships.

Criteria 4:  Community
Display organizational programs, contribution and activities that return value to and support your community.

Who can participate?

• Minimum of one (1) year in business
• Maintain a rating of A+ with BBB
• No pattern of complaints
• BBB Accreditation is NOT a requirement

Judging: Candidates for the 2021 BBB Torch Award for Ethics will be evaluated by a panel of judges from the business community. The decisions of the judges are final.

Entries are judged on an overall best score. 

Entry/ Submission

• Online nominations open April 7
• The deadline for nominations is July 7
• Nominees will be contacted with application details in mid-July
• Judging will take place in September, with awards presented during BBB's Build a Better Business Conference on Oct. 7.