Celebrating Arkansas's most ethical enterprises since 2014!
Applications are closed for the 2025 award season.
Winners will be honored at the Torch Awards for Ethics Ceremony on Wednesday, September 24th, at the Clinton Presidential Center. Secure your seat today!
Interested in applying for next year? Submit your information in our nomination form, and we will contact you when the application opens for 2026!
What is the Torch Award for Ethics?
BBB's Torch Awards for Ethics were established as an annual awards program to publicly recognize and celebrate local companies that have practices in place that elevate their commitment to ethical business. The Torch Award is designed to promote not only the importance of building trust but also the willingness and efforts made by outstanding businesses to contribute to an honorable marketplace.
BBB's focus on trust and ethics can be grouped into what we call the four C’s – Character, Culture, Customers and Community. This is the basis for the Torch Awards entry process! The application outlines the character of the organization’s leadership, how an authentic culture is being fostered, how the company prioritizes its relationship with customers and the impact the organization is making in its community.
Winners are chosen in four categories based on company size! Finalists are also awarded in each category.
Who should apply for a Torch Award?
The Torch Awards is open to for-profit and 501(c)(6) non-profit organizations of all sizes located within our service area.
- Applicants must have been in business for at least three years at the time of the application deadline. (Been in business less than 3 years OR a business owner under 35 years of age? Apply for Spark!)
- BBB Accreditation is not required.
- Must have at least a "B" rating with the BBB. (No rating? Contact us!)
- All financial obligations must be met and in good standing.
- Cannot have any current government actions or be the subject of a BBB investigation.
- Applicants are not eligible if they have received the Torch Award in the past five years.
- Government and non-profit, charity organizations are not eligible to submit an application.
The benefits of applying for and/or winning a Torch Award
Applying for a BBB Torch Award for Ethics is more than just an opportunity to win—it’s a chance to reflect on your company’s values, strengthen business practices, and showcase your commitment to integrity. Whether you’re applying for the first time or returning to highlight continued excellence, the benefits extend far beyond the award itself.
- Internal review and improvement. The application process provides a valuable opportunity to assess and refine your company’s ethical framework, policies, and procedures.
- Validation of business practices. Gain third-party recognition that confirms your organization operates with integrity, fostering trust with employees, customers, and partners.
- Employee recruitment and retention. Attract and retain top talent by demonstrating a strong commitment to ethical leadership and a positive workplace culture.
- Increased consumer trust and loyalty. Customers and clients are more likely to choose a business that has been recognized for ethical excellence.
- Competitive differentiation. Set your business apart in the marketplace by showcasing your commitment to integrity and transparency.
- Publicity and media recognition. Winners receive press coverage, social media promotion, and digital exposure, increasing brand visibility.
- Marketing and branding opportunities. Leverage the BBB Torch Award logo in advertising, on your website, and in marketing materials to enhance credibility.
- Networking and business growth. Winning strengthens your reputation within your industry and opens doors to new business opportunities and partnerships.
- Physical recognition and celebration. Winners receive a professionally produced winner’s video, a prestigious trophy, and exclusive marketing materials. They are also honored at our annual awards ceremony, a high-profile event celebrating ethical business leadership.
Check out the latest winners and finalists!
- The KAR Shop
- Delicious Temptations
- Harry Robinson Buick-GMC
- WinChoice USA
- Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of NWA
- CollEge HUNKS
- Vesta Foundation
- First Collection Services
BBB's International Torch Awards for Ethics
Local winners of BBB's Torch Awards are submitted for evaluation in BBB's International Torch Awards for Ethics. Presented annually since 1996, the International Torch Awards for EthicsSM honor companies that demonstrate best practices, leadership, social responsibility and high standards of organizational ethics that benefit everyone across the community. Arkansas is proud to be home to two International Torch Award Finalists!
Past Torch Award recipients
2024
Roller Funeral Homes
Tipton & Hurst
The Stitt Group
Secondhand Smoke, LLC
Finalists:
Tacos4Life
WinChoice USA
Creative Counseling Center of NWA
Kellum Septic Service
2023
First Orion
Lumber 1 Home Centers
DKS Custom Homes
Truservice Community Federal Credit Union
Avery & Bryant Real Estate Media
Finalist:
Big Cuppa
2022
Datamax, Inc.
Mountain Harbor Resort
Nix Screw Machine Products
Natural State Pest Control
Finalist:
Decks, Docks and More
2021
American Truck & Rail Audits
Circle of Life
Edafio Technology Partners
Lion Legal Services
Rhea Lana’s
2020
Bass Cat Boats
Eldercare Insurance
Kimbell Service
Metro Maintainers
Snell Prosthetics and Orthotics
The Organizer Chicks
2019
Arkansas Family Dental
Foundation Pro
Sierra Group & Associates
Precision Door Service of Central Arkansas
Premier Windows
2018
Murphy USA
Menco Construction
Whytespyder
Explore Scientific
2017
Cop Security
DHR Sonic
JPMS Cox
Mister Sparky
Wingard Photography
2016
Alliance Rubber
Curry’s Termite & Pest Control
Mountain Harbor
Rebath
River Hideaway
2015
Priority-1
Steve’s Plumbing
UPack
Wright Lindsey Jennings
2014
Arvest Bank
Bud Anderson HVAC
Main Street Service Center
Window Mart