Spark and Torch award winners announced by BBB for 2024

One fledgling business and six longstanding businesses in Idaho were recently honored by the Better Business Bureau Great West and Pacific and the BBB Foundation.

The 2024 Spark Award for Entrepreneurship was bestowed by the organizations to Meridian-based Montenegro’s Painting and Construction. The award is given to a business that has been in operation for three or less years and is owned by someone 35 or younger.

The company was selected by a panel of independent judges, the BBBGWP reported, and is chosen based on a company’s “commitment to ethical practices and building trust in the marketplace.

“BBB Foundation is thrilled to honor Montenegro’s Painting & Construction as the winner of the 2024 Spark Award for Entrepreneurship,” said Tyler Andrew, president and CEO of BBBGWP. “This emerging business has demonstrated exceptional ethical leadership, rising to the top in a competitive selection process. Their commitment to integrity sets a powerful example for the entrepreneurial community, and we’re excited to support their continued growth in fostering a trustworthy marketplace.”

Josue Montenegro, CEO of Montenegro’s Painting & Construction, lauded the company’s team for its successes.

“My unique teams consist of my brother who is my business partner, my employees, my subcontractors, my sales representatives and builders,” Montenegro said. “I unite them in my mission to provide one of or the best quality and performance in the valley and Idaho. We want to accomplish every single one of our client’s expectations.”

Along with the Spark Award, six businesses were honored with the BBB Torch Awards for Ethics in different categories.

Coeur d’Alene-based Panhandle Carpet One Floor & Home was honored with Small Business of the Year; JA Bertsch Heating and Cooling, LLC, in Coeur d’Alene and Plumbing Solutions of Idaho in Meridian were both honored with Medium Business of the Year; A-1 Heating, Air Conditioning & Electric in Meridian, Guidant Financial in Boise and Magic Electric, Plumbing, Heating + Air in Jerome were all honored with Large Business of the Year.

The Torch Awards for Ethics is given to business that “demonstrate a high level of personal character, meet the highest standards of ethics, and build trust with their customers and community.”

“This year’s award recipients have once again raised the bar for excellence in business ethics and community impact,” Tyler said. “Their commitment to integrity and social responsibility not only strengthens the marketplace but also inspires others to follow suit. By recognizing these outstanding companies, we aim to foster a business environment where ethical practices are not just appreciated but expected.”