BUSINESS ETHICS
Business Ethics recognizes members who can analyze and present solutions to ethical dilemmas commonly faced in the business world. This event includes an individual objective test, a written report, and a presentation, allowing members to explore ethical decision-making, integrity, and corporate responsibility.
Event Overview
Division: High School
Event Type: Team of 1, 2 or 3 members
Event Category: Presentation
Event Elements: Objective Test, Pre-judged Report and a Presentation (with a Topic)
Objective Test Time: 50 minutes
Pre-judged Component: Three-page Executive Summary due by date specified in the SLC registration packet
Presentation Time: 3-minute set-up, 7-minute presentation, 3-minute Question & Answer
Career Cluster Framework Connection: Management & Entrepreneurship
NACE Competency Alignment: Career & Self-Development, Communication, Critical Thinking, Leadership, Professionalism, Technology
Items Provided by Competitors: Sharpened pencil for objective test, Conference-provided nametag, Photo Identification, Attire that meets the Florida FBLA Dress Code, Technology and presentation items for presentation
Items Provided by FBLA: Table for presentation
FBLA's Business Ethics events are supported by the not-for-profit MBA Research and Curriculum Center. MBA Research offers a wide range of instructional materials focused on principles-based ethical decision-making. For more information, visit www.mbaresearch.org/ethics/.
Objective Test Competencies
· Communication Skills
· Self-Awareness
· Doing the Right Thing
· Teamwork Skills
· Leadership Skills
· Career Readiness
Test questions are based on the knowledge areas and objectives outlined for this event. Detailed objectives can be found in the study guide included in these guidelines.
District
Check with your District leadership for District-specific competition information.
State
Eligibility
· FBLA membership dues are paid by 11:59 pm Eastern Time on December 1 (or earlier date specified by District Director) of the current program year.
· Members may compete in an event at the State Leadership Conference (SLC) more than once if they have not previously placed in the top ten of that event at the National Leadership Conference (NLC). If a member places in the top ten of an event at NLC, they are no longer eligible to compete in that event.
· Members must be registered for the SLC and pay the state conference registration fee in order to participate in competitive events.
· Members must stay within the official FBLA housing block of the official FBLA hotel in order to compete.
· Each district may be represented by participant(s) based on the Florida FBLA scaled quota system found on the Florida FBLA website.
· Each competitor can only compete in one individual/team event and one chapter event (American Enterprise Project, Community Service Project, Local Chapter Annual Business Report, Partnership with Business Report).
· Only competitors are allowed to plan, research, and prepare their pre-judged component. They must also set up their presentation by themselves.
· Each competitor must compete in all parts of an event for award eligibility.
· Identification: Competitors must present valid photo identification (physical) that matches the name on their conference name badge. Acceptable forms include a driver’s license, passport, state-issued ID, or school ID.
· All members of a team must consist of individuals from the same chapter.
· Each section of the event must be completed by the same individuals. Competitors must participate in each level to be eligible for an award.
· If competitors are late for an objective test, they may be disqualified or permitted to begin late with no extension of the time as scheduled.
· If competitors are late for a presentation time, they may be disqualified or placed later in the schedule. The decision is solely up to the judges.
· Participants must adhere to the Florida FBLA dress code established by the Florida Board of Directors or they will not be permitted participate in the competitive event.
Recognition
· The number of competitors will determine the number of winners. The maximum number of winners for each competitive event is 5.
Event Administration
· This event has three parts: Objective Test, Pre-judged Report, Final Presentation based on a topic
· Objective Test
o Objective Test Time: 50 minutes
o This event has an objective test that is administered at the SLC.
o No reference or study materials may be brought to the testing site.
o Competitors on a team must test individually, starting within minutes of each other. Individual test scores will be averaged for a team score.
· Pre-Judged Asset Details: Executive Summary
o Submission Deadline: A PDF of the executive summary must be uploaded in the conference registration system by the date specified in the SLC registration packet.
o Number of Pages: The report will be no more than three (3) pages.
o Assets must be formatted to fit standard 8.5” x 11” paper.
o Links and QR codes are not permitted.
o Competitors must research the topic and prepare a one-page summary (called a report) prior to the conference.
o Advisers or others may not assist in preparing the asset. It must be created entirely by the competitor(s).
o All content must be original and created specifically for this competition.
o Assets will be judged prior to the State Leadership Conference (SLC).
o Pre-judged assets will not be returned. All submitted projects become the property of FBLA and may be published or reproduced for promotional purposes.
o Competitors must interview three local businesspeople as part of their research and explain how the interview findings factored into their recommendations. This information must be addressed in the report and the presentation.
o The first page of the report must include only the title (Business Ethics Summary) on the first line, names of all competitors on the second line, the name of the school on the third line, the state on the fourth line and the year (2025-26) on the fifth line.
o The second page of the report is a one-page summary of the topic and findings, with the following headings: Why the Ethical Issue Happened, How the Ethical Issue Should be Resolved, What Could Have Prevented the Ethical Issue. The one-page summary can be single spaced.
o The third page is a works cited page.
· Presentation Information
o Equipment Set-up Time: 3 minutes
o Presentation Time: 7 minutes (one-minute warning)
o Question & Answer Time: 3 minutes
o Internet Access: Not provided
o Important: Time allocations are exclusive. The presentation must begin immediately after the 3-minute set-up time concludes. Time may not be shifted between segments. Competitors will not interact with judges during the set-up period.
o Based on the objective test and case study summary combined scores, the five highest scoring teams will move on to the presentation round of this event.
o Presentations may be open to conference attendees, space permitting. Finalists may not view other competitors’ presentation in their event.
o Competitors must research the topic and be prepared to present their findings and solutions. The presentation must address why the ethical issues happened, how it should be resolved, and what could have prevented it.
o Technology Guidelines
· Internet Access: Not Provided
· Presentations must be delivered using one or two personal devices (laptop, tablet, mobile phone, or monitor approximately laptop-sized).
· If using two devices, one must face the judges and the other must face the presenters.
· Projectors and projector screens are not permitted, and competitors may not bring their own.
· Wireless slide advancers (e.g., presentation clickers or mice) are allowed.
· External speakers are not allowed; audio must come directly from the presenting device(s).
· Electricity will not be available.
o Visual aids, samples, notes, and other physical materials related to the project may be used; however, no items may be left with the judges or audience.
o Items may be placed on the provided table or on the judges table, if space allows.
o If performing as a team, all team members are expected to actively participate in the presentation.
o Information must be supported by credible, well-documented sources.
o Any use of copyrighted material, images, logos, or trademarks must be properly documented.
o Restricted items: animals (except authorized service animals), Food (for display only; may not be consumed by judges during the presentation), Links and QR codes (for display only; cannot be clicked or scanned by judges before, during, or after the presentation).
o Preparation for and presentation of the entry must be conducted by chapter members.
o The individual or team must perform all aspects of the presentation. Other chapter representatives may not provide assistance.
o Event Specific Information: Competitors should incorporate the following aspects in response to the topic
· Define the Ethical Issue: Identify and clearly define the ethical dilemma using appropriate industry terminology.
· Analyze Contributing Factors: Explain at least two key reasons behind the issue. Provide thoughtful analysis to demonstrate understanding of how these factors impact the situation.
· Offer Ethical Recommendations: Present two or more well-supported solutions to address the ethical dilemma, using credible evidence to justify each recommendation.
· Recommend Safeguards: Suggest at least two safeguards or preventative measures with strong supporting rationale to help avoid similar issues in the future.
· Incorporate Research and Real-World Input: Use accurate, well-sourced research and include insights from business professionals gathered through interviews or outreach to strengthen your analysis.
Scoring
· The objective test score (worth 50 points) and pre-judge score will be added together to determine the finalists.
· The presentation score determines the top winners.
· Decisions of the judges are final. Results announced at the State Leadership Conference are considered official and will not be changed after the conclusion of the State Leadership Conference.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
· FBLA complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by providing reasonable accommodations for competitors. Accommodation requests must be submitted through the conference registration system by the official registration deadline. All requests will be reviewed, and additional documentation may be required to determine eligibility and appropriate support.
Recording of Presentations
· No unauthorized audio or video recording devices will be allowed in any competitive event.
· Competitors in the events should be aware FBLA reserves the right to record any presentation for use in study or training materials.
Penalty Points
· Competitors may be disqualified if they violate the Competitive Event Guidelines or the Honor Code.
National
If you are competing on the National level, be sure to see the National guidelines at https://www.fbla.org/divisions/fbla/fbla-competitive-events/
2025-26 Business Ethics Background and Topic: How Can Businesses Help the Environment?
Background Info
Background Information: This section provides competitors with context on how businesses can positively impact the environment through sustainable practices. Competitors should review this information before completing the Business Ethics competition using the provided scenario on the following page.
Environmental issues like climate change and energy use have long been contentious and divisive topics in American society. In fact, there seems to be only one thing we can all agree on: No one can agree on anything!
However, a recent climate and energy survey from Pew Research Center found there is actually something most Americans seem to agree on. Roughly 70% of Americans believe that businesses are not doing enough to help the environment and reduce the effects of climate change.
This public sentiment comes at a time when many businesses may feel disincentivized to invest in eco-friendly practices. Economic uncertainty permeates throughout the global economy, regulatory agencies and policies are being curtailed in the United States, and powerful interest groups continue to influence public policy and opinion.
In the face of all these obstacles, is it beneficial—or even possible—for businesses to embrace sustainability?
This decision will ultimately fall to the current (and future) business leaders of America. And while public opinion may be cynical and the economic and political environment may be formidable, professionals can still adopt frameworks to help them incorporate responsible and sustainable decision-making.
A good place to start is with ethics. Ethics are the basic principles (such as integrity, transparency, and trust) that govern your behavior. In the business world, ethics are essential to navigating issues ranging from employee conflicts to corporate sustainability practices. The framework or set of standards professionals use to handle these bigger-picture issues is sometimes referred to as Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG).
Businesses don’t have to be market leaders in renewable energy or major power players in Washington to make a positive impact on the environment. A positive impact might be as small as switching to cloud storage or double-sided printing. If professionals incorporate ethical principles (like accountability and viability) and frameworks (like ESG) into their organizations’ vision and processes, every business can play a role in making our planet a more harmonious, hopeful, and healthier place.
High School Topic
Car company Geo Motors is known for being at the forefront of developing clean energy technologies for the automotive industry. After a string of moderately successful hybrid models, the company has just unveiled its most ambitious product yet: The Geo Pulse.
The Pulse boasts top-of-the-line features like 360-degree cameras, voice command technology, and self-driving capabilities. But the feature most prominently advertised is its low environmental impact. The Pulse is a fully electric vehicle (EV) with a staggering battery capacity of over 700 miles. Geo Motors proudly describes the Pulse as the highest-performing “zero-emissions vehicle” on the market. Virtually all marketing content for the car features this label, as well the model’s slogan, “Feel the most eco-friendly car in the world. Feel the Pulse.”
However, shortly after the car is announced, a prominent news outlet releases an investigative report stating the Pulse—while still an impressive vehicle—is not nearly as eco-friendly as Geo Motors claims.
The report explains that several key components of the car—such as its carbon fiber body and, most notably, its high-capacity lithium battery—are manufactured in a very energy-consuming and carbon-intensive process at Geo Motors’ factories. Furthermore, the mining methods necessary to extract the minerals for the large battery resulted in widespread deforestation and habitat destruction in central Africa and southern Asia. And lastly, the report found that certain mechanics of the Pulse, such as the artificial intelligence program necessary for the voice command and autopilot technologies, greatly increase the car’s energy consumption and lower its max mileage.
In the wake of these allegations, Geo Motors faces criticism for branding the Pulse as a “zero emissions vehicle” that is “the most eco-friendly car in the world.” Company executives admit they are still working on more efficient methods to produce and power their EVs. But in the meantime, they say, they are standing by their marketing campaign because the Geo Pulse is still technically “zero emissions,” as the car itself does not directly emit carbon dioxide.
But what do you think the company should do? Should Geo Motors change how it markets the Pulse? Should it make changes to its manufacturing process? Should it make changes to the car itself? How should a business balance innovation with environmental sustainability? How can businesses responsibly market products purporting to be eco-friendly?
Objective Test Study Guide: Competencies and Tasks
This study guide shows the skills and knowledge you’ll be tested on for this event. Objectives followed by a two-letter, three-digit code in parentheses are based on the National Business Administration Standards from MBA Research and Curriculum Center. Some objectives also reference MBA Research's Learning Activity Packages (LAPs)—resources with readings, activities, and assessments to help you learn. For more information, visit MBAResearch.org/FBLA.
Communication Skills (10 test items)
1. Demonstrate active listening skills (CO:017, LAP-CO-017) (PQ)
2. Explain the nature of effective communications (EI:007, LAP-EI-140) (PQ)
3. Foster open, honest communication (EI:129, LAP-EI-129) (SP)
Self-Awareness (15 test items)
1. Describe the nature of emotional intelligence (EI:001, LAP-EI-001) (PQ)
2. Recognize and overcome personal biases and stereotypes (EI:017, LAP-EI-917) (PQ)
3. Assess personal strengths and weaknesses (EI:002, LAP-EI-902) (PQ)
4. Assess personal behavior and values (EI:126, LAP-EI-126) (PQ)
5. Assess risks of personal decisions (EI:091, LAP-EI-091) (PQ)
Doing the Right Thing (30 test items)
1. Demonstrate honesty and integrity (EI:022, LAP-EI-138) (PQ)
2. Demonstrate responsible behavior (EI:021, LAP-EI-021) (PQ)
3. Demonstrate fairness (EI:127, LAP-EI-127) (PQ)
4. Take responsibility for decisions and actions (EI:075, LAP-EI-075) (PQ)
5. Build trust in relationships (EI:128, LAP-EI-128) (CS)
6. Describe the nature of ethics (EI:123, LAP-EI-123) (CS)
7. Explain reasons for ethical dilemmas (EI:124, LAP-EI-124) (CS)
8. Recognize and respond to ethical dilemmas (EI:125, LAP-EI-125) (CS)
9. Explain the use of feedback for personal growth (EI:003, LAP-EI-903) (PQ)
10. Show empathy for others (EI:030, LAP-EI-030) (PQ)
11. Comply with the spirit and intent of laws and regulations (BL:163, LAP-BL-163) (CS)
Teamwork Skills (15 test items)
1. Participate as a team member (EI:045, LAP-EI-045) (CS)
2. Treat others with dignity and respect (EI:036, LAP-EI-036) (PQ)
3. Foster positive working relationships (EI:037, LAP-EI-037) (CS)
4. Assess long-term value and impact of actions on others (EI:137, LAP-EI-137) (SP)
Leadership Skills (20 test items)
1. Explain the concept of leadership (EI:009, LAP-EI-909) (CS)
2. Explain the nature of ethical leadership (EI:131, LAP-EI-131) (CS)
3. Model ethical behavior (EI:132, LAP-EI-132) (CS)
4. Determine personal vision (EI:063, LAP-EI-063) (CS)
5. Inspire others (EI:133, LAP-EI-133) (CS)
6. Develop an achievement orientation (EI:027, LAP-EI-027) (CS)
7. Enlist others in working toward a shared vision (EI:060, LAP-EI-060) (CS)
Career Readiness (10 test items)
1. Set personal goals (PD:018, LAP-PD-918) (CS)
2. Follow rules of conduct (PD:251, LAP-PD-251) (CS)
3. Make decisions (PD:017, LAP-PD-017) (CS)
4. Demonstrate problem-solving skills (PD:077, LAP-PD-077) (CS)