Torch Awards FAQs

What is the Torch Awards for Ethics?

BBB serving Central Ohio established the Torch Awards for Ethics as an annual awards program to publicly recognize local companies that have practices in place that elevate their commitment to ethical business. The Torch Awards for Ethics is designed to not only promote the importance of building trust, but also the willingness and efforts made by outstanding businesses to help contribute to an honorable marketplace.

BBB has distilled our intentional focus on trust and ethics into four C’s – Character, Culture, Customers, Community, and this is the basis for the Torch Awards entry process. The application outlines the character of the organization’s leadership, how an authentic culture is being fostered, how the company prioritizes its relationship with customers, and the impact the organization is making in their community.

What is the criteria to submit an entry?

The Torch Awards is open to for-profit, 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(6) non-profit organizations of all sizes located within BBB serving Central Ohio’s service area. Our service area consists of the following 21 counties: Athens, Champaign, Coshocton, Delaware, Fairfield, Fayette, Franklin, Hocking, Knox, Licking, Logan, Madison, Marion, Meigs, Morgan, Morrow, Muskingum, Perry, Pickaway, Ross, Union, Vinton.

  • BBB Accreditation is not required;

  • For profit and 501(c)(6) applicants must have a “B” rating with BBB;

  • 501(c)(3) non-profit applicants must complete the Charitable Standards Evaluation process and meet all BBB Standards for Charity Accountability;

  • Organizations must have been in business for three years;

  • All financial obligations must be met;

  • Applicants are not eligible if they have received the Torch Award in the past five years;

  • Government agencies are not eligible to submit an application.


Who judges the entries?

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

What is the benefit of submitting an application?

When you go through the Torch Awards application process, you complete a very conscientious review of the true character and ethics of your organization.

Your company will be recognized during the Torch Awards for Ethics banquet, in a news release shared with Central Ohio media partners, on BBB’s Torch Awards for Ethics website, and BBB’s social media sites. BBB will produce a video vignette of your organization’s best practices that can be shared on your company’s digital platforms as well as your BBB Business Profile. You are able to utilize the Torch Awards for Ethics recipient logo with your recipient year on your digital and print marketing collateral. The crystal Torch Award your company will receive can be proudly displayed at your office to remind employees, customers, and guests of your commitment to ethics


How can I find out more about the entry process?

We provide complimentary information sessions that are led by BBB staff that walks through the entry process. It is an outstanding way to gain clarity and ask questions about what the judges are looking for in your company’s application. You can view a recorded info session here.

Check back in early 2024 for next year’s in person info session dates.

When/Where is the Torch Awards for Ethics celebration?

The 2024 Torch Awards for Ethics recipients will be honored at our event A Toast to Trusted Leaders at The Bluestone on November 13, 2024.

 

I’m a small business; how will I know if I have time to compile and submit an entry?

The easiest way to learn about the entry process and the time involved with it is to attend one of our complimentary Torch Awards information sessions listed above. You can also contact Cassy Patterson at cpatterson@centralohio.bbb.org or (614)754-4563 to discuss the application further.

 

I know of a great company for the Torch Awards, can I nominate them?

Yes, nominating someone else helps us identify great candidates and encourage them to apply! You can visit our Torch Awards for Ethics nomination form and submit their information. Once we receive the nomination, we will contact the company directly and encourage them to submit an application.

 

I’m looking forward to applying, how do I start?

You can visit our Torch Awards entry form to view and/or start the online entry process. Applications for 2024 are open until August 16th.

 

Who do I contact for more information?

If you have further questions regarding the Torch Awards for Ethics, please contact Cassy Patterson at cpatterson@centralohio.bbb.org or (614) 754-4563.