Applications Open
September 21, 2026
Online applications and nominations begin.
2027 program timeline
Key dates and deadlines
Application Deadline
October 30, 2026
Deadline - submit by this date
Finalist Announced
Winter 2027
Recipients notified by email and on BBB platforms.
Awards Celebration
March 11, 2027
In-person event honoring the winning organizations.
Recognizing ethics in action
Each year, BBB invites businesses across Minnesota and North Dakota to apply for the Torch Awards for Ethics. Finalists and winners are recognized at BBB's signature Torch Awards celebration, where we honor organizations that demonstrate ethical leadership through their Character, Culture, Customers, and Community.
Since its inception, BBB Serving Minnesota and North Dakota has recognized more than 80 organizations for setting the standard for trust in the marketplace.
Frequently asked questions
The application
The BBB Torch Awards for Ethics are open to for-profit businesses of all sizes located in Minnesota or North Dakota.
To be eligible, organizations must:
Have a BBB rating of B or higher
Have been in business for at least three years
Be current on all financial obligations
Not be a government agency or Torch Awards event sponsor
No. BBB Accreditation is not required to apply for the Torch Awards for Ethics. However, applicants must maintain a BBB rating of B or higher and meet all other eligibility requirements.
No. To recognize a diverse range of ethical businesses, previous Torch Award winners are not eligible to receive the award again. BBB encourages new applicants to share their stories and demonstrate how they lead with integrity.
Applications are reviewed by an independent panel of volunteer judges made up of business and community leaders.
Judges evaluate how applicants demonstrate ethics in action through four key areas:
Character – Leading with ethics and integrity
Culture – Fostering trust and transparency within the organization
Customers – Building strong, trustworthy customer relationships
Community – Supporting and strengthening the communities they serve
Applicants are asked to submit a 500-1,000 word narrative describing how their organization demonstrates trust, integrity, and ethical leadership.
Strong applications include specific examples and stories that illustrate how the organization lives out its values.
Supporting documents help provide a complete picture of your organization's commitment to ethics and trust. Examples include:
Employee handbooks, mission or vision statements, strategic plans, and community impact reports
Customer testimonials, workplace awards, media coverage, and social media recognition
Photos highlighting employees, customer interactions, company culture, or community involvement