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BBB Cincinnati Torch Awards for Ethics application information

The Torch Awards for Ethics is BBB Cincinnati’s only ethics-centered awards program. Torch Award applicants demonstrate their dedication to ethics by going above and beyond in their customer relations, their team culture, and their investment in the community.

Eligibility & criteria

The 2026 Torch Awards is open to for-profit, 501(c)(3), and 501(c)(6) nonprofit organizations of all sizes located within BBB’s 22-county service area.* Applications are closed for the 2026 Torch Awards for Ethics. Stayed turned for honoree announcement in August.

  • BBB Accreditation is not required.
  • For profit and 501(c)(6) applicants must have a “B” rating with BBB.
  • 501(c)(3) nonprofit applicants must complete the Charitable Standards Evaluation process and meet all BBB Standards for Charity Accountability.
  • Organizations must have been in business for at least three years.
  • All financial obligations must be met.
  • Applicants are not eligible if they have received the Torch Award in the past three years (Torch Award winners in 2023, 2024, or 2025 are not eligible; however Torch Award winners in 2022 or any year previous are eligible to apply).
  • Government agencies are not eligible to submit an application.

*The 22-county service area includes:

  • Indiana: Dearborn, Franklin, Ohio, Ripley, Switzerland, Union
  • Kentucky: Boone, Campbell, Kenton
  • Ohio: Adams, Brown, Butler, Clermont, Clinton, Gallia, Hamilton, Highland, Jackson, Pike, Lawrence, Scioto, and Warren (except the following zip codes: 45005, 45066, and 45068)

Judging process

Entries are evaluated by an independent panel of volunteer judges comprised of business and community leaders.

Your written submission should provide a robust and accurate depiction of your organization's focus on character, culture, customers/clients, and community, including examples, stories, and documents,.

Supporting documents and attachments can range from handbooks and internal documentation to photos from events. These are not required but are highly recommended to show judges how your organization supports company culture, customers/clients, and community involvement.