2025 Torch Awards
Relive the moments from our 29th annual Torch Awards on YouTube - watch last years' tremendous guest speakers and winners below.
Past Torch Award winners
Review our past Torch Award winners and see how they’ve set the standard for ethics and excellence. Browse presentations and acceptance speeches to relive the moments that celebrate integrity in our business community.
BBB's Centennial Celebration
On April 22, 2026 the Better Business Bureau marked 100 years serving Chicago and Northern Illinois! View our event page and press release, and see how you can join us in celebrating a century of trust.
Rules, details, and eligibility requirements
Each year, the BBB Torch Awards for Ethics honor businesses and organizations that demonstrate outstanding integrity and a deep commitment to building trust in the marketplace and their community.
Nominees are evaluated based on the following four key criteria:
Character - Show how you/your organization lives out your core values through intentional actions and open communication with employees, customers, and stakeholders.
Culture - Describe how you/your organization fosters a culture of trust by maintaining a clear mission, empowering your team, and creating opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Customers - Explain the internal practices and standards you/your organization uses to strengthen customer relationships and enhance their experience.
Community - Share the ways your business gives back through programs, partnerships, or initiatives that make a positive impact in the communities you serve.
The BBB Torch Awards for Ethics are open to for-profit businesses only, located within BBB Serving Chicago and Northern Illinois’ 19-county service area.
Firestarter Award - Must be in business for a minimum of 1-year and just less than 3-years, as of November 12, 2026
Torch Award – Must be in business for a minimum of at least 3 years, as of November 12, 2026
Hold a minimum of an A- rating with BBB
No pattern of unresolved complaints
BBB Accreditation is NOT required
Candidates for the 2026 BBB Torch Award for Ethics will be evaluated by a panel of independent judges from the business community. The decisions of the judges are final. Entries are judged on an averaged overall best score.
Nominations for Torch Awards can be submitted by consumers, business associates, and business owners themselves. Online nominations begin on August 17, 2026.
All nominations must be submitted by September 9, 2026.
Nominees will be contacted with more details and asked to complete an online entry application.
Entries will be reviewed by a panel of judges made up of local community members who are not employed by BBB serving Chicago and Northern Illinois.
Online entry/submission window opens on August 17, 2026 – September 16, 2026.
All entries must be submitted by September 16, 2026.
Winners will be honored during a special afternoon at the 30th Annual Torch Awards for Ethics luncheon on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace.