We use cookies to give users the best content and online experience. By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to allow us to use all cookies. Visit our Privacy Policy to learn more.

Manage Cookies
Find local businesses

2027 Torch Awards for Ethics timeline

Key dates and deadlines

Applications Open

September 1, 2026

Start accepting online applications.

Application Deadline

November 30, 2026 • 5 p.m.

Deadline - submit by this date

Winners Announced

January 2027

Recipients notified by our CEO.

Awards Presented

February & March 2027

In-person presentation at each business.

About the awards

Recognizing integrity put into action

The Torch Awards for Ethics are an annual celebration honoring exceptional businesses in our community. They recognize organizations for outstanding ethical practices and a real commitment to four enduring values — character, culture, customers and community.

Made possible by the BBB Education Foundation, the awards celebrate organizations across BBB, Central & Northwest NC's 19-county service area. There is no limit on how many organizations can be honored each year — recipients are chosen on merit against a benchmark, not ranked against one another.

Is this for you?

Eligibility and how it works

There is no cost to apply. Eligible organizations meet these criteria:

Located in the 19 counties the BBB, Central & Northwest NC serves.
In operation for at least three years as of September 1, 2026.
Is Accredited with BBB and does not currently have an ad review or investigation.
Has not earned a Torch Award in the past three years in the same service area.
See full eligibility details in the FAQ

How the process works

1
Apply online
Complete the online application between September 1 and November 30, 2026 • 5 p.m. You can save your progress and return later.
2
Independent judging
A volunteer panel scores each submission on character, culture, customers, and community against a published benchmark.
3
Winners notified
Recipients are notified by our CEO in January 2027 and announced across BBB platforms.
4
Celebrated in person
Winning organizations are honored in person at their business in February and March 2027.

Past recipients

In the words of our winners

Recent Torch Award recipients across BBB, Central & Northwest NC, in their own words.

A person in a pink blouse stands beside a quote praising company recognition and hard work, attributed to Carla Wilkes, owner of Wilkes Income Tax Services.
A person in a suit with a quote about the impact of winning Torch Award, attributed to Corey Hodges, owner of Fortified Futures.
View all past recipients

Why the recognition carries weight

A fair, independent process

Judged independently

An independent, voluntary panel of business and community leaders reviews and selects every recipient.

Scored on merit

Submissions are measured against a published benchmark for character, culture, customers and community — not ranked against one another.

Backed by BBB's mission

Made possible by the BBB Education Foundation and built on more than a century of work toward a trustworthy marketplace.

Ready to apply?

Start here

Complete the online application by November 30, 2026• 5 p.m. Free to enter. Save and return anytime

Begin Application

Categories

  • Category 1: sole proprietor

  • Category 2: 2- 25 employees

  • Category 3: 26-75 employees

  • Category 4: 76+ employees

Judging Insights

Read the Judging Insights before you prepare your application

Good to know

Frequently asked questions