BBB Serving the Heart of Texas

BBB offers curated entrepreneurial and Business education content, both on a global and local scale, to specifically aid entrepreneurs and Business owners in initiating, growing, or sustaining their ventures. Our educational webinars cover critical Business topics such as tax strategies for optimized financial management and cybersecurity to protect your Business and client data. Through the small Business help center, we provide an array of essential resources. For instance, the BBB trust hub guides businesses in establishing and maintaining trust, a vital aspect of successful Business relationships. We facilitate interaction between businesses and consumers, allowing businesses to obtain quotes, estimates, and valuable information. Our speakers Bureau, composed of professionals with expertise in ethical marketplace practices, community engagement, and scam prevention, offers invaluable insights and guidance for businesses looking to establish a strong ethical foundation and a positive impact within their communities.

BBB continues to expand our local, regional, and international partnerships. This includes economic development, higher education, incubators, and industry regulators (i.e., licensing, workforce, department of labor, etc.) We partner with the consumer fraud task force within the Texas attorney general office, the brazos valley fraud task force, and various law enforcement and financial institutions to combat crimes and trends occurring in southern and eastern regions of Texas. From 2020-2022 we partnered with the city of austin economic development department to serve as grant administrator for the austin creative worker relief grant and the austin small Business relief fund grant which supported entrepreneurs, micro and small businesses facing financial hardships due to the economic impacts of the covid-19 pandemic.

BBB offers consumers reliable and unbiased Business information through BBB search where consumers can discover ethical partners and service providers with a strong community engagement history. Consumers reach out to BBB accredited businesses for quotes and estimates. If issues arise between BBB accredited businesses and consumers, our resolution services aim to foster ethical conduct and resolve conflicts, promoting a fair environment. Consumers report scams and leave reviews to emphasize transparency and ethics, supporting our mission for integrity. Consumers stay informed through our newsletter on local scam alerts, Business investigations, and networking opportunities. Consumers engage with us at events like shred days (consumer privacy protection) and torch awards, focusing on identity protection and recognizing ethical businesses.

Financial overview: in fiscal year 2022, BBB demonstrated fiscal responsibility and efficiency in the allocation of resources. Our financial statements are audited annually by an independent certified public accounting firm to ensure transparency and compliance with regulatory requirements. We have continued to maintain a strong financial position, enabling us to deliver on our mission of promoting ethical Business practices and consumer trust. Board governance: BBB is governed by a dedicated and diverse board of directors, representing a wide range of industries and expertise. the board meets regularly to provide strategic guidance and oversight, ensuring the organization's mission and values are upheld. Our board members are committed to transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership, reflecting our commitment to best practices in governance.executive leadership: BBB is led by a team of experienced and dedicated executives who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise in areas such as nonprofit management, Business ethics, and community engagement. Our leadership is committed to advancing the organization's mission and ensuring the effective delivery of our programs and services. Program impact: BBB's programs and services have had a significant impact on entrepreneurs, small businesses, and consumers within our community and beyond. In the past year, we have: conducted webinars and workshops, reaching hundreds of entrepreneurs and Business owners, providing them with valuable knowledge and tools to succeed in the Business world. Resolved consumer-business disputes through our resolution services, promoting fairness and ethical conduct in the marketplace. Collaborated with local and regional partners to enhance economic development and support small businesses facing financial hardships. Participated in consumer engagement events, including shred days and torch awards, promoting consumer privacy, ethical Business practices, and community recognition. Future initiatives: BBB remains committed to its mission of promoting trust and ethics in the marketplace. In the coming year, we plan to: expand our educational offerings to cover emerging Business trends and challenges, ensuring entrepreneurs have access to the most relevant information. Strengthen our partnerships with local, regional, and international organizations to further enhance economic development and support for small businesses. Continue our collaboration with law enforcement agencies and financial institutions to combat emerging scams and fraudulent activities. Explore innovative ways to engage with consumers and businesses, leveraging technology and online platforms to increase transparency and awareness.