The Better Business Bureau Serving Greater Iowa has opened nominations and applications for its 2026 BBB Torch Awards for Business Ethics.
In a news release, the statewide organization said the prestigious award recognizes local companies that display an outstanding level of integrity and an unwavering commitment to ethical business practices.
To honor the Torch Awards finalists and winners, the BBB will hold two award ceremonies this summer across the state:
- Des Moines Ceremony: Thursday, June 4, Des Moines Heritage Center.
- Quad Cities Ceremony: Thursday, June 11, Bally’s Quad Cities Casino & Hotel in Rock Island.
Headquartered in Des Moines, the Iowa BBB has satellite offices in Bettendorf and Cedar Rapids.
The Torch Awards are the highest honor the BBB can present to a business. Unlike awards that focus on sales or growth, the Torch Award illuminates the importance of trust and the daily dedication required to maintain high standards with employees, customers, and the community.
“Ethical business is the backbone of a strong community,” Chris Coleman, the president of BBB Serving Greater Iowa. “We are thrilled to bring these ceremonies to both Des Moines and the Quad Cities to honor those leaders who choose to do the right thing, even when no one is looking. We encourage every business that prides itself on integrity to apply.”
The awards are presented annually to businesses around the state. Nominees are not required to be an Accredited Business with the BBB to apply or win. Judging is done by an independent panel.
Last year’s winners were: Safe Money Solutions, Cedar Rapids; Tebock Lawn & Landscaping, Ankeny; Top-Notch Tile, Clinton; and BEarth Institute, Urbandale.
Application details
The BBB invites businesses of all sizes throughout the region to apply for the Torch Award. The application process allows businesses to showcase their commitment to character, culture, and community impact.
All business nominations and applications must be submitted by Friday, Feb. 27.
To apply, Iowa businesses can access the online application portal here.
Find more information on the awards, sponsorship opportunities, or event registration here.
Born in 1940, the Better Business Bureau has served the Greater Iowa, Quad Cities, and Siouxland Region. It has been the local leader in advancing marketplace trust. The nonprofit serves the state of Iowa and Rock Island and Henry counties in Illinois.
Its mission is to provide essential services. That includes objective business profiles on more than 5.3 million companies, dispute resolution, and consumer education.
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