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 2024 BBB Spark recipients: Checking on Our Loved Ones and Eye Co. 

 

Nominate an organization

Know of an outstanding local organization? Nominate them for a Spark Award!

Applications due August 1, 2025

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.

For more information about submitting an application for the Spark Award visit our FAQs & criteria page.

See a list of previous Spark Award Recipients.

2024 Spark Award winners

Congratulations to the 2024 winners of the Spark Award!

Checking on Our Loved Ones is on a heartfelt mission to ensure no one feels isolated. Offering call center-level wellness checks, their small yet mighty team understands that true support goes beyond the call—it’s about meaningful human connection. With Quality Assurance, Quality Control, and Empathy Goals as their foundation, they stay focused on the compassionate touch that drives their work. As they grow, Checking on Our Loved Ones amplifies their impact by giving back through community education and financial support. These aren’t just initiatives—they’re a testament to the power of community care and the belief that no one should feel alone.

Eye Co. is more than a medical optometric office; it’s a place where vision care and compassion go hand in hand. Treating patients like family, Eye Co. is committed to advancing eye health through comprehensive, personalized care. With a team grounded in respect and open communication, they ensure everyone shares the same dedication to delivering top-tier service. Eye Co.’s commitment to the community is as clear as their vision—whether they’re offering essential eye care for those in need or hosting free public health education events, Eye Co. shows they’re invested in making their community healthier and brighter.

Thank you to our partners!

     

     

     

CPMedia & Marketing    ●    E.E. Ward Moving & Storage    ●    KEMBA Financial Credit Union    ●    Outreach Promos