Issuu

ANNUAL REPORT2025

Circle of Impact

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

I am honored to present our 2025 Annual Report and its theme, Circle of Impact — a testament to the transformative power of collaboration across Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and South Dakota. This past year demonstrated the strength of our shared mission. We celebrated record-breaking achievements: 31 Torch Award-winning organizations recognized for excellence, 17 scholarships for high school seniors awarded to aspiring business leaders, and 130+ programming opportunities delivered to strengthen our business community. We reached more than 9,000 consumers with vital resources and services. Two of our own Accredited Businesses — Yeck’s Automotive Repair and WoodmenLife — earned International Torch Awards for Ethics, a distinction that reflects the caliber of businesses in our region.

These milestones matter because they represent real impact: integrity and excellence that define who we are as a business community.

In 2025, we delivered when it mattered most. We stood with businesses and consumers during natural disasters. We combated scams through enhanced integrity measures. We expanded programming to meet evolving marketplace demands. During “Thank A Business Month” alone, we connected individually with over 60 businesses, reinforcing the partnerships that drive our region forward.

Serving nearly 11,000 Accredited Businesses and millions of consumers across the Midwest Plains, we remain committed to our foundational purpose: building trust and driving positive change. Together, we have reinforced BBB’s position as North America’s leading authority on business integrity.

Thank you for your unwavering support as we continue this vital work. The circle of impact we create together extends far beyond what any of us could accomplish alone.

Sincerely,

Jim Hegarty President & CEO BBB Midwest Plains

INTERNATIONAL INVESTIGATIONS INITIATIVE

In 2017, our Bureau partnered with the BBBs in Chicago, Dallas, San Francisco and St. Louis to create a powerful consortium dedicated to addressing fraud across North America. This collaboration focuses on uncovering and analyzing the most pressing fraud issues impacting both consumers and businesses.

To date, BBB has released 25 in-depth scam investigations along with numerous follow-up reports. These studies reveal how scams operate and expose the manipulative tactics fraudsters use, including social engineering, to target and exploit vulnerabilities. Our goal is to empower consumers and business owners with the knowledge they need to recognize and avoid scams.

In 2025, we published three new studies to further this mission.

BUSINESS SCAMS

Business scams are becoming ubiquitous. Nearly 80% of companies experienced attempted fraud in 2024, according to one report. Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics, which means businesses must stay vigilant against emerging threats.

This study reveals the most common scams targeting businesses today, helps employees recognize warning signs, and provides actionable steps businesses can take to protect themselves.

IDENTITY THEFT SCAMS

We share sensitive personal information constantly — often without thinking twice. Names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, PINs, credit card security codes, dates of birth, Social Security numbers: these details fuel nearly every transaction we make, from opening bank accounts to paying bills to accessing essential online services.

But this everyday data is also a goldmine for scammers. This study examines how criminals exploit weaknesses in personal security, the tactics they use to turn stolen identities into broader fraud schemes, and the global scale of the identity fraud crisis.

To increase your scam knowledge, you can read each of the studies at bbb.org/scamstudies.

GAMBLING AND GAMING STUDY

Millions of people across North America wager money online every day — placing bets on sporting events, playing games of chance, and predicting outcomes of real-world events. As online gambling and gaming continue to blur the lines between entertainment and ethics, questions about legality and consumer protection have become increasingly urgent.

This study defines the different types of online gaming and gambling, clarifies the legal landscape, and examines the key distinctions between legitimate businesses and illegal operations in this rapidly evolving industry.

MEDIA IMPACT REPORT ON SCAM STUDIES IMPACT GRAND TOTALS FROM SEPTEMBER 2017 - DECEMBER 2025

TOP MEDIA OUTLETS: ABC News, Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Fox News, NBC News, CBS News, USA Today, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal

SOCIAL MEDIA FOLLOWER STATISTICS

BBB SCAM TRACKER:

A POWERFUL TOOL IN THE FIGHT AGAINST FRAUD

BBB Scam Tracker (bbb.org/scamtracker) was honored in 2024 as the Best Scam Fighting Tool of the Year by the Global Anti-Scam Alliance and ScamAdviser.com. This recognition highlights its impact, helping people avoid an estimated $24.5 million in losses in 2024.

Scam Tracker allows consumers to report scams and access information about fraudulent activity in their area, whether it’s fake checks, IRS impostor calls, lottery scams, or other schemes. Partnerships with Amazon and Capital One enhanced its capabilities, introducing a more user-friendly experience and improved data-sharing features for collaborating with partners to combat fraud.

By leveraging technology and the Better Business Bureau’s network across the U.S. and Canada, Scam Tracker empowers consumers, businesses, and organizations with actionable insights to fight scams more effectively. Since its launch in 2015, more than 300,000 scams have been reported, helping to identify patterns and protect communities.

Scam Tracker

STAYING INFORMED WITH BBB NEWSLETTERS

Stay ahead of scams and business trends with BBB’s free monthly newsletters. Choose from:

• Consumer newsletter – Scam alerts, safety tips, and media highlights

Visit bbb.org/scamtracker to report suspicious activity or learn about scams in your area. Together, we can educate and protect consumers from fraud.

• Business newsletter – Industry insights, upcoming events, and trust-building resources

Stay connected – subscribe today at bbb.org/mwpnewsletter

BBB SAVINGS PROGRAM: STRENGTHENING CONNECTIONS AMONG ACCREDITED BUSINESSES

To foster collaboration and trust, BBB introduced the BBB Savings Program, an exclusive affiliate discount initiative for Accredited Businesses. This program enables participants to work directly with other trusted Accredited Businesses, strengthening partnerships within the network.

Since its launch, 25+ businesses have joined, offering discounts on services ranging from foundation repair to cutting-edge technology solutions. By connecting businesses with shared values, the BBB Savings Program reinforces our mission to promote integrity and trust in the marketplace. Learn more about the program – visit bbb.org/mwpsavings.

ACCREDITED BUSINESS (AB) SEAL: SHOWCASING TRUST AND CREDIBILITY

Earning BBB Accreditation signifies that your business is part of an elite group committed to ethics and reliability in building a trustworthy marketplace. The BBB Accredited Business Seal is a powerful symbol that customers recognize and trust – don’t miss out on the opportunity to showcase it.

Display the current version of the BBB Seal across all offline marketing materials, including newspaper ads, handouts, direct mail, vehicle signage, business cards, invoices, directories, and TV commercials. Let your customers know who you are and what you stand for.

To obtain electronic copies of the BBB Seal for your marketing needs, contact us at 800-649-6814 or email info@bbbinc.org.

ONLINE DYNAMIC SEAL: ENHANCING DIGITAL PRESENCE AND TRUST

Take your accreditation to the next level with BBB’s Dynamic Seal, the online version of the Accredited Business Seal. By adding the Dynamic Seal to your website or online platforms like Facebook or email, you provide consumers with instant confirmation of your legitimacy. The seal links directly to your BBB Business Profile, boosting trust and enhancing your search engine optimization (SEO).

To get your customized BBB Dynamic Seal, contact us at 800-649-6814 or email info@bbbinc.org.

BBB@HOME

CONNECTS YOU WITH TRUSTED LOCAL BUSINESSES

With BBB@Home, you can confidently hire professionals for home improvement, repairs, and renovations. Our directory features businesses that meet BBB’s high standards for trustworthiness – and it’s mailed directly to 43,000 Omaha homes four times a year.

Learn more at bbb.org/local/0714/BBB-Programs/BBB-at-Home.

BBB TORCH AWARDS LUNCHEON:

CELEBRATING INTEGRITY ACROSS THE MIDWEST

BBB Midwest Plains elevated the 2025 Torch Awards Luncheon into a dynamic 90-minute celebration of integrity and ethics. Keynote speaker Eugene Kowel, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Omaha, captivated the audience with an address that set the tone for an inspiring event honoring businesses and individuals committed to ethical practices.

The event recognized outstanding contributions to marketplace trust:

• Andrew Ozaki received the BBB Community Champion Award for his decades of journalism experience advancing ethical business practices

• More than 20 companies were celebrated for their commitment to integrity

• Four scholarship recipients were honored for demonstrating ethics in action

With over 400 attendees and support from 28 sponsors, the 28th annual BBB Torch Awards reinforced the vital role of trust and integrity across the region.

BBB TORCH AWARDS FOR ETHICS

The BBB Torch Awards for Ethics is an annual celebration to honor exceptional businesses and nonprofits in the community. The Torch Awards program recognizes local organizations’ outstanding ethical practices and commitment to character, culture, customers and community.

If your business or nonprofit has been operating under the same ownership for three years or more and has a “B” rating with BBB, you are eligible to apply. Independent panels of judges from the business, academic and charitable communities select the award recipients. Unlike other awards, the BBB Torch Awards for Ethics focus on demonstrated ethical business practices, rather than a company’s growth, profitability or popularity.

Additionally, BBB has introduced a new, simplified application in recent years. This streamlined form, which is completed online, will make it easier to demonstrate the best of your organization. We believe celebrating the best in our service area makes us all better!

If you have ever considered applying, now is the time! Awards will be presented for businesses and charities located in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and South Dakota.

Learn more about the Torch Awards program by visiting bbb.org/mwptorch

AWARD CATEGORIES:

• Businesses with 1-4 employees

• Businesses with 5-10 employees

• Businesses with 11-24 employees

• Businesses with 25-99 employees

• Businesses with 100-249 employees

• Businesses with 250-499 employees

• Businesses with 500+ employees

• Nonprofits with 1-24 employees

• Nonprofits with 25+ employees

BENEFITS FOR AWARD WINNERS:

• Torch Award recipient media kit

• Torch Award recipient trophy for display

• Torch Award winner logo to use on website and in marketing efforts

• Recognition as an award winner in press releases, blog posts, social media, local advertisements and BBB’s website

• Enhanced customer confidence

• Increased employee pride

• Instructions to advertise the award to your communities and stakeholders

• Winners’ applications from for profit and 501(c)(6) organizations will be submitted for the International Torch Awards competition

Note: Only winners’ applications from the nonprofit categories that are BBB Accredited Charities can be entered for the International Torch Awards.

2025 BBB TORCH AWARD WINNERS

OMAHA & SOUTHWEST IOWA

Businesses with 1-4 employees:

• Evodia Fragrances

• Gottsch’s Goo

• Semper Fido Mobile Pet Nail Trimming

Businesses with 5-10 employees:

• Diapers 2 Diplomas Learning Center, LLC

Businesses with 11-24 employees:

• Radon Defense Midwest

• Vision2Voice Healthcare Communications

Businesses with 25-99 employees:

• Getzschman Heating & Air Conditioning

Businesses with 100-249 employees:

• White Castle Roofing

Businesses with 250-499 employees:

• NEI Global Relocation

Businesses with 500+ employees:

• WoodmenLife

• Metropolitan Utilities District of Omaha

Nonprofits with 25+ employees:

• OneWorld Community Health Center

• Open Door Mission

LINCOLN & GREATER NEBRASKA

Businesses with 11-24 employees:

• Custom Cooling & Heating, Inc.

Businesses with 25-99 employees:

• Hampton Enterprises, Inc.

• Wolfe Electric Company, Inc.

Businesses with 100-249 employees:

• Credit Management Services, Inc.

• Empire Fence & Netting

KANSAS PLAINS

Businesses with 1-4 employees:

• 060 Technology Solutions

Businesses with 5-10 employees:

• Yardcrafters LLC

Businesses with 25-99 employees:

• Groundworks

KANSAS CITY & WESTERN MISSOURI

Businesses with 1-4 employees:

• AList LLC

Businesses with 100-249 employees:

• Basys

• Helitech Waterproofing & Foundation Repair

• Renewal By Andersen of Kansas City

SOUTH DAKOTA

Businesses with 1-4 employees:

• Blue Light Investigations LLC

Businesses with 5-10 employees:

• Wilco Land

Businesses with 11-24 employees:

· All About Travel, Inc.

· ELBO Computing Resources, Inc.

Nonprofits with 25+ employees:

• Feeding South Dakota

BBB SPARK AWARDS:

RECOGNIZING THE FUTURE OF A TRUSTED MARKETPLACE

Launched in 2023, the BBB Spark Award celebrates social entrepreneurs, startup founders, and new business owners under the age of 45 who exemplify the Three C’s of Trust: Character, Culture, and Community. These innovative leaders are driving positive change and shaping the future of a trustworthy marketplace.

KANSAS CITY & WESTERN MISSOURI Nathan Gallagher

To qualify, applicants must operate a business within BBB Midwest Plains’ service area and meet the age criteria of being 45 years or younger before the day of the application deadline. The Spark Award highlights the critical role of emerging businesses in fostering ethical practices and community impact.

Learn more about the program – visit bbb.org/mwpspark. 2025 BBB SPARK AWARD WINNER

BBB INTERNATIONAL TORCH AWARDS FOR ETHICS:

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN TRUST

Since 1996, the International Torch Awards for Ethics℠ have recognized companies that embody the highest standards of ethics, leadership, social responsibility, and community impact. These awards reflect BBB’s mission of advancing trust in the marketplace and inspiring others to follow ethical best practices.

In 2025, four outstanding companies were honored across North America, including two from BBB Midwest Plains’ service area:

Category 1 (1-10 employees)

Yeck’s Auto Repair, Bellevue, NE

Yeck’s Auto Repair is a veteranowned tire dealer and repair shop that was established in 1975. Yeck’s Auto Repair is a 2024 Torch Award for Ethics recipient from the BBB of Midwest Plains.

Category 4 (500 or more employees)

• Category 1: Yeck’s Auto Repair

• Category 2: Kane Learning

• Category 3: Frontier Foundation & Crawl Space Repair

• Category 4: WoodmenLife

- Category 4 Finalist: Metropolitan Utilities District

WoodmenLife is an insurance company established in 1890 to help hardworking Americans secure their families financial futures and leave a lasting legacy. WoodmenLife is a 2024 Torch Award for Ethics recipient from the BBB Midwest Plains.

Metropolitan Utilities District, Omaha, NE

Metropolitan Utilities District has provided the community with safe, reliable and cost-effective services since 1921. They proudly serve natural gas to 240,000+ customers, making them the fifth largest public gas utility in the U.S. They also provide safe drinking water to 229,000+ customers. MUD is a 2024 Torch Award for Ethics recipient from the BBB Midwest Plains.

BUSINESS PROFILE

Last year, millions of BBB Business Profiles of organizations in our service area were accessed. When your business comes up in search results on BBB.org, it is important to make sure your BBB Business Profile makes the best impression possible. A complete profile with details about your products and services, customer reviews and your BBB Accreditation all increase your chances of attracting new customers.

BUSINESS PROFILE TIPS

3 Products and/or services offered

3 Business address

UPLOAD PICTURES AND VIDEOS: Images and videos of your products, services, or projects are more engaging and persuasive forms of content than text-only information about your business. Use this checklist to update or complete your profile.

START BY REVIEWING YOUR BBB BUSINESS PROFILE: This will ensure all information about your business is correct.

KEEP YOUR INFORMATION UP TO DATE: Accurate information helps customers contact you and ensures BBB can notify you of new customer reviews and complaints.

RESPOND TO ALL COMPLAINTS:

Quickly responding to and resolving complaints can be an effective way to turn a dissatisfied customer into a loyal supporter, and it shows everyone else reading the complaint that you value and respect your customers.

ENCOURAGE CUSTOMERS TO LEAVE REVIEWS: Accurate information helps customers contact you and ensures BBB can notify you of new customer reviews and complaints.

HELP UPDATING YOUR BBB BUSINESS PROFILE?

Please contact us at 800-649-6814 or info@bbbinc.org and someone from our Accredited Business Services team will be happy to help.

BBB ONLINE DIRECTORY

Instead of each BBB having its own directory on its website, BBB has a single online directory that combines all BBBs’ databases at BBB.org.

Accredited Businesses (ABs) have their company’s name, address and phone number listed, at no cost, under their main Type of Business (TOB) category in the online directory. Every listing has a link to the company’s BBB Business Profile, and ABs have the BBB Accredited Business Seal prominently displayed, which distinguishes them from non-ABs. Also, if a consumer wants to find only BBB Accredited Businesses, those can be easily accessed by clicking the button “BBB Accredited” at the top of all TOB listing pages in the directory.

Affordable opportunities to advertise are available. For more information about advertising, email info@bbbinc.org.

BBB’S

EDUCATION FOUNDATION:

STRENGTHENING CONNECTIONS, DRIVING IMPACT

In 2025, BBB expanded collaborations with universities, businesses, and nonprofits to advance its mission of fostering trust-driven marketplace interactions. Through these partnerships, BBB reached over 9,500 consumers and partnered with 60+ sellers.

Key highlights include:

• Cybersecurity Education: Partnered with Dakota State University to deliver practical training on cybersecurity strategies and trends for small and medium-sized businesses.

• Community Engagement: National Night Out: Engaged 1,500 attendees through booths at events in Bellevue, Council Bluffs, Douglas County, and Lincoln, promoting consumer awareness and trust.

• Thank A Business Month: Surprised more than 60 Accredited Businesses with thank you packages loaded with goodies during the month of November.

• Elder Justice Training: Sponsored Nebraska DHHS’s Elder Justice Training and served as a featured speaker. More than 700 attendees learned strategies to protect seniors from fraud and financial exploitation.

• Trunk or Treat: Connected with more than 800 consumers at a Trunk or Treat event in Blair, providing community engagement and consumer education.

• Financial Literacy & Scam Prevention: Partnered with various organizations throughout the year to deliver presentations on financial literacy and scam prevention, empowering consumers to make informed decisions.

HIGHLIGHTS OF COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS IN 2025:

• AARP Nebraska

• Aksarben Village Senior Living

• Attorney General of Nebraska

• Bailey Pointe of Miracle Hills

• Bellevue Police Department

• Bloomfield Retirement Center

• Business Ethics Alliance

• Carter Lake Community Center

• Carter Lake City Hall

• CombOver Contracting

• Council Bluffs Police Department

• Department of Health and Human Services

• Douglas County Sheriff’s Office

• Federal Bureau of Investigation

• Firespring

• First National Bank of OmahaKearney

• Fountain View Retirement Center

• Great Plains Communication

• Heartland Association of Certified Fraud Examiners

• KWCH

• Lancaster County Crime Stoppers

• Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office

• Legacy Retirement Communities

• Lincoln Fire Department

• Lincoln Parks & Recs

• Lincoln Police Department

• Maple Ridge Retirement Community

• Nebraska Realty

• New Cassel Retirement Center

• Omaha Corgi Crew

• Omaha Storm Chasers

• Overland Park Police Department

• Pacific Life

• Primrose Retirement Community of Council Bluffs

• PRSA Nebraska

• Rapid Relief Team

• Savannah Pines Retirement Center

• Suburban Rotary Club

• The Heritage at Fox Run

• Third Coast Interactive

• Thrasher Foundation Repair

• Trail Ridge Retirement Community

• Union Bank & Trust

• University of Nebraska-Lincoln

• West Omaha Rotary Club

• YMCA of Grand Island

BBB STUDENT OF INTEGRITY SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

The BBB Student of Integrity Scholarship program is sponsored by BBB’s Education Foundation. These awards are not based on ethnicity or grade point average. They recognize students who exemplify integrity, leadership and service. Seventeen $2,000 scholarships are presented annually to high school seniors who reside in the geographic areas served by the BBB: Metro Omaha & Southwest Iowa, Metro Lincoln & Greater Nebraska, South Dakota, Kansas Plains, and Kansas City & Western Missouri. The winners are selected by independent panels of judges. Congratulations!