Torch Awards for Ethics logo and Spark Awards logo on blue background

BBB Cincinnati ethics awards

BBB believes in the power of trust to grow people, businesses, and communities. One way we build trust in our region? Honoring ethical leaders through programs like the Torch Awards for Ethics and Spark Awards.

The BBB Torch Awards for Ethics and Spark Awards celebrate local organizations that go above and beyond to serve their customers, employees, and community.

Recognizing organizations that do things the right way

Our vision is to create an ethical marketplace where buyers and sellers trust each other. In this spirit, BBB Cincinnati publicly recognizes organizations with exceptional commitment to ethics with the annual Torch Awards for Ethics and Spark Awards. 

From established companies and nonprofits to emerging young businesses, each year BBB honors ethical organizations across all industries in our region.

Torch Awards for Ethics logo on blue background with copy "Showcase ethical excellence. Highlighting established businesses and charities meeting the highest standard of ethics"

Torch Awards for Ethics

BBB Cincinnati's premier ethics-centered program — the most prestigious honor BBB can give.

The Torch Awards celebrate established businesses and charities that meet the highest standard of ethics and trust among their employees, customers, and local communities, embodying BBB’s mission to advance marketplace trust. 

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BBB Spark Awards logo on orange background with copy "Attention all ethical trailblazers. Celebrating exception young entrepreneurs and new businesses"

Spark Awards

Supporting outstanding young entrepreneurs and new businesses committed to ethics.

This program is for trustworthy entrepreneurs and startup founders 35 years old or younger, or new business owners who’ve been in operation for less than three years. Through the Spark Awards, we hope to recognize and welcome those newer leaders building their businesses around the three Cs of trust: Character, Culture, and Community.

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BBB Torch and Spark Awards sponsorship opportunities

The Annual BBB Torch Awards for Ethics and Spark Awards recognizes businesses and charities for demonstrating exceptional service and commitment to our eight Standards for Trust. The program is generously supported by sponsoring businesses who give above and beyond their membership dues to be a part of the awards season. In 2024, more than 250 people attended the event, creating awareness for winners as well as sponsors through social media, invitations, press releases, and more. To learn more about the Torch and Spark Award sponsorship opportunity, contact Susanna Max, Director of Strategic and Digital Alliances at smax@cincinnati.bbb.org or submit an interest form below.

Become a sponsor!
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Relive the magic

Watch a short video of highlights from the 2024 Torch and Spark Awards Gala at The Summit Hotel.

Watch recap
BBB Cincinnati President and CEO Jocile Ehrlich interview series

Learn more about the awards from the BBB CEO

BBB Cincinnati President and CEO Jocile Ehrlich discusses the Torch Awards for Ethics and Spark Awards with Cincinnati Business Courier Publisher and President Jamie Smith.

Watch the video