Steps for certification as BCorp and become a force for good
A 5-Step Guide to Positive Impact
In a nutshell:
Sustainability is now mainstream
B Corp provides the next step for organisations
We offer a 5-step guide to B Corp certification
Sustainability has evolved from a radical concept to a niche topic and is now firmly established in the mainstream. For example, most organisations today support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) because the urgency of addressing climate change and related challenges is clear
If you're reading this, you likely share the commitment to making a positive impact, and we commend your efforts. Achieving sustainability and purpose-driven business, however, is no easy task. This growing demand for guidance, best practices, and frameworks has given rise to B Corp Certification.
B Corp Certification offers a comprehensive framework and a coveted certificate designed to transform businesses into forces for good. It's supported by a movement of inspirational organisations, such as Patagonia and Tony's Chocolonely. If you're curious about the benefits and considerations of B Corp certification, check out our blog (ADD LINK).
Here, we'll provide insights on how to pursue B Corp certification in five key steps:
Getting everyone on board
For most organisations, getting certified depends on more than one person. First, key leaders need to support the certification efforts. But the rest of the organisation will play a key role as well. From HR to sales. To help collect the necessary information, first of all. But secondly, to enact the B Corp mentality after certification. This is when the power of B Corp truly comes to life!
Est. time: Depends on your decision-making structure and requires continuous engagement and activationGetting the legal stuff done
To become a B Corp, you'll need to change your company's by-laws to formally embrace social and ecological impact alongside profitability, known as stakeholder governance. No worries, the adaptation text is supplied by B Lab, so all it takes is a call to your notary. But take care of it, because without it you won’t get certified.
Est. time: In no(tary) timeCompleting the B Impact Assessment
The B Impact Assessment (BIA) is the cornerstone of B Corp certification. You’ll need to show exactly how you perform as a company across the five impact areas. And prove your claims as well. So expect an intense process of data collection with a healthy dose of frustration. But the result will be worth it. We promise!
Est. time: 2-6 weeksGetting the OK from B Lab
After completing the BIA, you'll undergo a review by B Lab Evaluation and Business Sustainability Analysts to confirm your eligibility. While this may seem intense, it ensures that B Corp certification is reserved for those genuinely committed to business as a force for good. If your score falls below 80 points, don't fret; B Lab offers additional time for improvement.
Implement new practices and change the way you work. It might just B in the cards at a later stage!
Est. time: 6-10 monthsPutting your party hat on
Upon successful verification, it's time to celebrate! You're now an official part of the B Corp community, contributing to the movement of making business a force for good. Expect a warm welcome, fruitful partnerships and lots of fun events and gatherings.
Just don’t forget to do your recertification every three years 😉
Est. time: Until the bar closes
Conclusion
B Corp certification offers a structured path for businesses to make a positive impact in a world that increasingly demands sustainability and purpose. As the sustainability clock ticks, taking this journey is not just an option; it's a commitment to a better future. Are you ready to embark on your B Corp journey?
Want to learn more?
You can check out our whitepaper breaking down the certification process in more detail here
You can check out our blog post outlining the benefits and considerations of B Corp certification
You can schedule a 30-minute call with our B Corp Expert, Daniel, free of charge by going here
You can check out our B Corp tailored service packages here which are for people who want more structural support