In late 2010, it hit the BBB team: the BBB’s 100th anniversary was fast approaching. As the first BBB, they were compelled to light the way.
In March 2013, the Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota (BBB) – competing with large advertising and PR agencies – won a top honor from the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) for its 18-month long Centennial celebration. Here’s how.
Celebrating its 100th Anniversary and challenged to communicate modern-day relevance, the BBB got creative. The group developed initiatives and partnerships ranging from “Good Eggs and Scams,” to a private celebration at the Minnesota Governor’s Mansion.
“This was a once-in-a lifetime opportunity to showcase the terrific work done by the BBB,” said Dana Badgerow, BBB President and CEO. “Our team planned and executed a flawless campaign of public awareness, using their own ingenuity, creativity and resources.”
The goal was to re-ignite and re-energize the BBB Brand. An internal team built a solid plan, board members were informed and enlisted, and the fun began.
“We brought together and engaged local businesses, communities, and civic leaders to champion business ethics,” said Barb Grieman, BBB Vice President. “It gave us a creative way to drive our mission to build marketplace trust.”
The BBB blazed the way with these seven tactics (among many others):
The BBB team’s passion, effort, and dedication delivered wins on many fronts: from securing and retaining 160 new members to educating hundreds of high-school and college students on the importance of ethics in business.
Any advice for other groups looking to celebrate a milestone?
“Start planning early,” says Grieman. “And match your plans to your mission.”
