The Spark Award recognizes business owners 35 and under or business owners of any age operating for less than three years who demonstrate a higher level of character, generate a culture that is authentic about its mission, and connect with community.
The Spark Award class is chosen from an arena of entries and nominations, showing there’s no lack of trusted business representatives in Central Ohio. Three leading organizations are then selected to represent the class in the areas of character, culture and community as that year’s recipients.
Congratulations to the 2025 BBB Spark recipient: Bite This by Annie
Nominate an organization
Know of an outstanding local organization? Nominate them for a Spark Award!
Character
Leaders must be teachable and open to growing with ideas. Leaders habitually seek the truth, are open to criticism, and know that their own personal development is never complete. Ethical leaders also empower their employees to be intentional in their personal and professional development.
Culture
Constructive workplace cultures help teams work toward their goals, and establish guidelines that hold each member, including leadership, accountable while praising valuable team players. As a result, successful teams are able to create structures, adapt to change, and continually encourage opportunities for all staff members. Progressive cultures set ethical ways for a business to problem solve, resolve conflict, and inspire evolution.
Community
Notable entrepreneurial organizations show appreciation for their communities by enthusiastically giving back. Businesses should make efforts to eagerly support their communities by contributing to and encouraging an ethical marketplace. Community-inspired businesses help their environment, stakeholders, and community membership by reinvesting and volunteering.
2025 Spark Award winner
Congratulations to the 2025 winner of the Spark Award!
Bite This by Annie
Bite This by Annie is a Columbus bakery known for bold, scratch-made treats and a welcoming “come as you are” experience. Born from the founder’s sobriety journey, the business centers mental health advocacy, inclusion, and community connection. The team pairs high standards in the kitchen with open feedback, consistent care, and “Wake Up, Do Better” as a daily practice. Their authenticity, ethical leadership, and purpose-driven collaborations make Bite This a standout Spark Award honoree for building Trust while delighting customers.
Thank you to our partners!
CBUS Media Group ● KEMBA Financial Credit Union ● Outreach Promos ● Plunkett’s Pest Control & Varment Guard Wildlife Services