What is a B Corporation, and What Are the Benefits?

B Corporations (B Corps) are a group of companies aiming to meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. A B Corp is to business what Fair Trade certification is to coffee. There are more than 1,600 certified B Corps from 42 countries, representing 120 industries.

The ethics of being a B Corp

Ethically, being a B Corp gives you proof and credibility. It’s all well and good that your produce may be organic and carbon neutral, but consumers require proof. Being a B Corp ensures you meet targets and intentions, as the ethos becomes engrained in the DNA of your company.

Business opportunities

Investors seek companies that do good, understanding that B Corp certification acts as insurance for business longevity. Being a B Corp generates more press, helps attract better talent (especially millennials who seek work with larger purpose), and gives unparalleled access to other member businesses. Ultimately, it allows you to benchmark your performance and set goals for continuous improvement.