Eligibility & Criteria for BBB Torch Awards for Ethics

BBB Serving Southeast Florida & the Caribbean offers the Torch Awards for Ethics to eligible for-profit, 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(6) non-profit organizations of all sizes headquartered within our 11 county service area, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands. BBB Accreditation is not required.

The BBB Torch Awards for Ethics℠ honor businesses that meet the highest standard of ethics and trust among their employees, customers, and local communities, embodying BBB’s mission to advance marketplace trust.

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For-profit and 501(c)(6) applicants must have at least 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 BBB Torch Awards for Ethics in the past three years

Government agencies are not eligible to submit an application

The Judging Process

Who are the judges?

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

The judging panel will review the submissions in each of the three categories. Business submissions will compete in 1 of 3 categories:

Small category 1 - 10 employees
Mid-size category 11 - 49 employees
Large category 50+ employees

The 4 C's Explained

The Torch Awards for Ethics honor companies whose leaders focus on the four C’s: the Character of the organization’s leadership; if and how an authentic Culture is being fostered; the company’s transparent relationship with its Customers; and the impact the organization is making in the local Community.

Criteria 1

As a leader explain how you behave intentially and communicate with your leadership team, emplyees, customers, and stakeholders in a way that is consitent with your beliefs.

Criteria 2

Illustrate how your organization works towards a culture of trust through charity of purpose, empowering emplyees, and opportunities for growth.

Criteria 3

Give examples of internal practices your organization uses to build better customer relationships.

Criteria 4

Display organizational programs, contributions, and activites that return value and support your community.

The Nominations Process

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Who can submit nominations?

Nominations for the Torch Awards for Ethics can be submitted by consumers, business associates, or the business owners themselves.

Nominations for the 2025 Torch Awards for Ethics is open until March 13, 2025.