Torch Awards for Ethics logo and Spark Awards logo on blue background

BBB Cincinnati ethics awards

BBB believes in the power of trust to grow people, businesses, and communities. One way we build trust in our region? Honoring ethical leaders through programs like the Torch Awards for Ethics and Spark Awards.

The BBB Torch Awards for Ethics and Spark Awards celebrate local organizations that go above and beyond to serve their customers, employees, and community.

Recognizing organizations that do things the right way

Our vision is to create an ethical marketplace where buyers and sellers trust each other. In this spirit, BBB Cincinnati publicly recognizes organizations with exceptional commitment to ethics with the annual Torch Awards for Ethics and Spark Awards. 

Learn more about the awards from the BBB CEO

BBB Cincinnati President and CEO Jocile Ehrlich discusses the Torch Awards for Ethics and Spark Awards with Cincinnati Business Courier Publisher and President Jamie Smith.


From established companies and nonprofits to emerging young businesses, each year BBB honors ethical organizations across all industries in our region.

Torch Awards for Ethics logo on blue background with copy "Showcase ethical excellence. Highlighting established businesses and charities meeting the highest standard of ethics"

Torch Awards for Ethics

Greater Cincinnati's premier ethics-centered program — the most prestigious honor BBB can give.

The Torch Awards celebrate established businesses and charities 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 Spark Awards logo on orange background with copy "Attention all ethical trailblazers. Celebrating exception young entrepreneurs and new businesses"

Spark Awards

Supporting outstanding young entrepreneurs and new businesses committed to ethics.

This program is for trustworthy entrepreneurs and startup founders 35 years old or younger, or new business owners who’ve been in operation for less than three years. Through the Spark Awards, we hope to recognize and welcome those newer leaders building their businesses around the three Cs of trust: Character, Culture, and Community.