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Group of people outdoors holding a large check for scholarships, smiling and wearing blue sports shirts and caps.

Chicago and Northern Illinois

BBB Foundation

Empowering the next generation of ethical leaders by providing scholarships to students of exceptional character, while championing integrity, trust, and responsible business practices.

2026 BBB Foundation scholars in blue shirts smiling outdoors, with trees in the background.

Our mission

The Foundation of the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois, empowers the next generation of ethical leaders by providing scholarships to students of exceptional character. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we champion integrity, trust, and responsible business practices by providing resources that protect consumers, strengthen businesses, and elevate communities by investing in deserving individuals to build brighter futures.

Two men shaking hands on stage, holding a large donation check to Leo High School from BBB.

About BBB Foundation

The Foundation of the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago & Northern Illinois is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and empowering consumers and businesses on marketplace trust. Since 2008, the Foundation has reached thousands with programs on topics like cybersecurity, scams, and trust, and it also supports students through its yearly scholarship program.

Meet our board members

Allen in a brown suit and tie against a blue background.

BBB Foundation Chair

Allen Rodriguez

Banker, educator, and civic leader with nearly 30 years of financial leadership and 10+ years in community affairs and economic development. Experienced in building strategic partnerships and developing financial and lending initiatives that strengthen businesses and communities.

Steve Bernas in a suit and tie against a blue background.

BBB CEO & President

Steve Bernas

With 30+ years at the Chicago BBB, Steve advances marketplace trust and best business practices. He leads operations, partners with trade associations, and provides expert media commentary on consumer confidence, customer relations, and business practices.

Alex Felton in a gray suit and glasses, against a blue background.

Pursuit

Alex Felton

Sales management professional with 16+ years of experience driving B2B partnerships, new business development, and client growth. Skilled in strategic planning, relationship management, lending, training, presentations, and client retention.

Rhonda Henderson with a pearl necklace, wearing a black dress against a blue backdrop.

Lucebene Consulting

Dr. Rhonda Henderson

Business Professor and Educationist with over 15 years of extensive experience working with small businesses, as well as community-based and non-profit organizations.  Focus on economic and small business development, strategic business planning, entrepreneurial training programs, and real estate. 

Jim in a blazer against a blue background.

Spanish Broadcasting System

Jim Lyke

Jim is an accomplished media executive with expertise in sales, revenue growth, business development, and strategic partnerships. Bilingual in English and Spanish, he is also a passionate advocate for Autism awareness and military veterans.

Duane in a checkered shirt against a blue background.

Tire Kickers, LLC

Duane Moore

Duane has been passionate about cars and motors since childhood, rebuilding his first gasoline engine at age 12. An Air Force veteran, he combines his mechanical expertise with a commitment to helping fellow veterans find meaningful employment.

Tuan in a dark suit and striped tie smiling, posed against a blue background.

American Commercial Bank & Trust

Tuan Nguyen

Tuan Nguyen is a commercial banking executive with 20 years of experience, including 17 years in commercial banking. He manages a $50M loan portfolio and brings international business expertise, an MBA in International Business & Marketing, and conversational Mandarin and Vietnamese.

What we've achieved

Scholarship investment

Awarded over $100,000 in scholarships to students pursuing higher education.

Military support

Worked with thousands of military personnel and veterans to avoid scams and assist them in transitioning to civilian life. We are also honored to provide support to military families by partnering with Folds of Honor.

Business education

Provided education to thousands of business owners on a series of topics designed to help them build better businesses.

Get involved with BBB Foundation

BBB Foundation Scholarship

Applications for the 2026 BBB Foundation's Scholarship program are now closed. Please be on the lookout for new the new application period starting January 2027.

Learn more

Donate to the Foundation

Click the link below to make a donation to the BBB Foundation of Chicago and Northern Illinois. 

Donate here

Speakers Bureau

The BBB Chicago & Northern Illinois Speakers Bureau provides speakers for nonprofit groups, retirement organizations, business associations, and businesses. Topics include scams, ethics, cybercrime, and nearly 100 years of BBB insights on marketplace issues. Request a speaker below.

Request speaker