Applications & Nominations Open
June 1st, 2026
Online applications and nominations begin.
About the awards
Recognizing integrity put into action
The BBB Torch Awards for Ethics is an annual celebration honoring businesses and organizations across Acadiana that demonstrate integrity, ethical leadership, and a commitment to building trust in our marketplace. These awards recognize those who consistently lead by example through four core values: Character, Culture, Customers, and Community.
Presented by BBB of Acadiana, the Torch Awards celebrate organizations serving our seven-parish region that go above and beyond in earning the trust of their customers, employees, and communities. Rather than competing against one another, nominees are evaluated against a rigorous standard of ethical excellence. Any organization that meets the benchmark may be recognized, reinforcing our belief that integrity deserves the spotlight.
Whether a small business, nonprofit, or established organization, the Torch Awards honor those who are making Acadiana a stronger, more trusted place to live, work, and do business.
2026 program timeline
Key dates and deadlines
Application & Nomination Deadline
August 15th, 2026
Deadline - submit by this date
Finalists notified
August 19th, 2026
Finalists notified by email and on BBB platforms.
Awards Celebration
October 22nd, 2026
In-person event honoring the winning organizations.
Purchase tickets
Ways to take part
Choose how you want to take part
Whether you're ready to apply, want to nominate an organization, or just have questions — there's a clear next step.
Start Here
Apply for the Torch Awards
Complete the online application by August 15th, 2026. Free to enter; save and return anytime.
Begin ApplicationNominate an organization
Shine a light on a business or nonprofit that demonstrates integrity-driven best practices.
NominateSponsor the Torch Awards
Becoming a sponsor of the 2026 Torch Awards is more than a marketing opportunity, it's a public commitment to trust, excellence, and community values.
View opportunitiesAttend the celebration
Join the in-person awards event on October 22nd, 2026 to honor this year's recipients.
Purchase ticketsGood to know
Frequently asked questions
The BBB Torch Awards for Ethics is an annual celebration honoring exceptional businesses and nonprofits. It recognizes outstanding ethical practices and a commitment to character, culture, customers and community.
Organizations must be located in BBB Midwest Plains' service area (Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska or South Dakota), have been in operation at least three years as of April 30, 2026, and hold at least a “B” rating with BBB. Organizations that won a Torch Award in the same service area within the past five years are not eligible.
No. Awards are not contingent on accreditation, donations, or any purchase or sponsorship. No purchase is necessary to enter or to win.
Yes. BBB Accreditation is not required to apply. All eligible businesses and nonprofits are encouraged to participate.
Entries are evaluated by the 2026 BBB Board of Directors comprised of 20 local business and community leaders. Submissions, including examples, stories, and documents should provide a robust and accurate depiction of the organizations focus on Character, Culture, Customers, and Community. Supporting documents and attachments can range from handbooks, internal documentation, or photos from events.
Recipients are notified by email and announced by August 31st, 2026 then celebrated at an in-person awards event on October 22nd, 2026.
To help keep event costs down, we offer dual pricing. Guests who pay by ACH (bank transfer) receive our lowest advertised price. Payments made by credit card include a 3.5% processing fee, which is reflected in the credit card price shown at checkout.