Application period open for BBB's Torch Award for Ethics and Spark Award

Better Business Bureau of Upstate New York recently announced the application period for the 2021 Torch Award for Ethics. The accolade celebrates the commitment made by businesses and charities to the highest standards of leadership character and organizational ethics. It shows the practices these organizations employ to generate a high level of trust among their employees, customers and communities.

The application period is Dec. 1 to Feb. 1, 2021. The Torch Award is open to for-profit, 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(6) nonprofit organizations of all sizes physically located within upstate New York.

Firms need not be BBB accredited. 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations must complete the BBB Charity Review process, and must currently meet all 20 BBB Standards for Charity Accountability. 

Companies entering the Torch Award competition will be judged in one of the following categories based on the number of employees:

• 500+ Corporate Category
• 100-499 Large Business Category
• 50-99 Medium Business Category
• 10-49 Mid-Size Business Category
• 2-9 Small Business Category
• Sole Proprietor

Nonprofit organizations:

• 1-9 Small Nonprofit Category
• 10+ Large Nonprofit Category

To nominate a business or a charity, click here. To see the bios and list of last year’s recipients, click here.

The BBB Spark Award, a Torch Award for Entrepreneurship, recognizes business owners 35 and under or business owners of any age operating for less than three years who demonstrate a higher level of character, a culture that is authentic about its mission, and a deep connection with their community. Click here for full details.