Spark Awards

Central Ohio BBB Center for Character Ethics

The Spark Award 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, generate a culture that is authentic about its mission, and connect with community.

The Spark Award class is chosen from an arena of entries and nominations, showing there’s no lack of trusted business representatives in Central Ohio. Three leading organizations are then selected to represent the class in the areas of character, culture and community as that year’s recipients.

Congratulations to the 2023 BBB Spark recipients: Abundant You Chiropractic & Wellness, E&E Tea Co., Third Street Digital, and Waymakers Restoration.

Nominate an organization

Know of an outstanding local organization? Nominate them for a Spark Award!

Applications due August 16, 2024

Apply now!

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Character

Leaders must be teachable and open to growing with ideas. Leaders habitually seek the truth, are open to criticism, and know that their own personal development is never complete. Ethical leaders also empower their employees to be intentional in their personal and professional development.

Culture

Constructive workplace cultures help teams work toward their goals, and establish guidelines that hold each member, including leadership, accountable while praising valuable team players. As a result, successful teams are able to create structures, adapt to change, and continually encourage opportunities for all staff members. Progressive cultures set ethical ways for a business to problem solve, resolve conflict, and inspire evolution.

Community

Notable entrepreneurial organizations show appreciation for their communities by enthusiastically giving back. Businesses should make efforts to eagerly support their communities by contributing to and encouraging an ethical marketplace. Community-inspired businesses help their environment, stakeholders, and community membership by reinvesting and volunteering.

FAQs/Criteria

For more information about submitting an application for the Spark Award visit our FAQs & criteria page.

Past Spark recipients

See a list of previous Spark Award Recipients.

2023 Spark Award winners

Congratulations to the 2023 winners of the Spark Award!

Abundant You Chiropractic & Wellness

Abundant You is not just a healthcare provider. They're a vital force, nurturing the well-being of their patients and community and creating a story of transformation, impact, and wellness. Abundant You offers complimentary services such as spinal screenings and educational workshops, donates to local charities, and pursues strategic community partnerships. The clinic actively collaborates with local organizations, healthcare providers, and wellness professionals to address community health challenges, promote preventive care, and provide comprehensive support systems for individuals in need.

E&E Tea Co.

E&E Tea is the purveyor of high-quality organic loose leaf and herbal teas, exemplifies a winning blend of character, culture, and community engagement. The company's leadership, steeped in transparency and a commitment to personal growth, fosters a culture of trust and continual improvement. E&E Tea Co.'s focus on healing and well-being extends through their support of organizations like Enduring Minds, the Black Magic Burlesque show, Pilot Dogs Inc., ROX Ruling Our Experience Girls group, and Fallen 15. E&E Tea Co. infuses their positive impact and dedication to holistic well-being throughout the central Ohio community.

Third Street Digital

Third Street Digital is a pioneering all-women digital agency with standout commitment to a people-first approach. The agency's dedication to internal growth, including educational stipends and a balanced work-life approach, has been instrumental in fostering a thriving team. Actively engaging with non-profit organizations and local efforts, they offer their digital expertise to create meaningful impact. The organization’s own Pixie Partner Program is a unique initiative supporting minority-owned businesses, non-profits, and organizations by providing education, training, and strategic guidance related to digital advertising and marketing.

Waymakers Restoration

Waymakers is a distinguished emergency services restoration company specializing in emergency water and fire cleanup in Central Ohio. At the company’s heart is a profound commitment to character. The company's unique hiring mantra, "Don't lie, don't steal, be loyal," ensures that their team is aligned with their character-driven approach. This focus on character extends to relationships with clients, where they treat every customer as family, regardless of circumstances, ensuring lasting impressions and outstanding reviews. The company’s WayMakers Foundation provides life-critical items for single parents, widows, domestic violence survivors, and individuals in need.