BBB Wisconsin Torch Awards for Ethics criteria

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.

BBB Serving Wisconsin has awarded Torch Awards to over 100 businesses and 20 non-profits in Wisconsin for their ethical practices in the marketplace. As we continue this tradition into 2026, we encourage you to apply today - or nominate a business of your choice!

Eligibility & criteria

The BBB Torch Awards for Ethics is open to for-profit, 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(6) non-profit organizations of all sizes.

• 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 BBB Torch Awards for Ethics in the past three years;
• Government agencies are not eligible to submit an application.

See the complete list of our past Torch Awards for Ethics recipients here.

Nominate or apply online - Deadline January 30, 2026.
Nominate a Wisconsin organization for a Torch Award for Ethics.

Nominated organizations will be required to fill out our separate award application in order to be in the running to receive a Torch Award for Ethics.

Questions?
If you're interested in learning more about applying, view our application contents, our judging criteria, and our frequently asked questions.

Or contact us at foundation@wisconsin.bbb.org.