In this short guide, we outline how B-Corp applications can be supported by effective carbon accounting. We cover how quantifying carbon emissions can bolster a small business's sustainability goals and strengthen any B-Corp bid, giving you the best chance of success.
B-Corp is a private certification managed by B-Lab, aimed at for-profit companies committed to maintaining a purpose-driven mission while achieving high social and environmental standards, even amidst capital raises and leadership changes.
The certification ensures that companies uphold stakeholder governance—a model that requires them to consider the interests of all stakeholders, including customers, employees, suppliers, communities, investors, and the environment.
To earn B-Corp certification, a company must meet stringent standards across key areas such as governance, workers, community, and environmental impact. Additionally, certified companies are required to publish an annual B Impact Report, which evaluates their performance based on a comprehensive set of criteria.
Notable B-Corps include Ben & Jerry's, Aesop, and Allbirds. Could your company be the next standout B-Corp?
Six key steps involved in a successful B Corp application.
Complete the 180+ question BIA, which evaluates your business across five key categories: governance, workers, community, environment, and customers. Additionally, you must disclose any sensitive or potentially controversial practices in your business or industry by completing the Disclosure Questionnaire if applicable.
Your business will receive a numerical score based on its BIA results. To qualify for B-Corp certification, a verified score of over 80 points is required. If your business does not initially qualify, you can work on improving your practices and reapply until you meet the criteria.
You need to provide documentation to support the claims made in your assessment. This may include financial statements, internal policies, and other relevant documents that demonstrate your company's compliance with the standards.
B Lab conducts a thorough verification process to ensure the accuracy of the information provided. During this stage, it is common for scores to fluctuate as B Lab reviews the documentation.
If your business maintains a score above 80 after verification, it will be granted B-Corp certification. You will then be required to sign the B Corp Declaration of Interdependence and the Term Sheet. Additionally, your business must incorporate a statement provided by B-Corp into its foundational documents, formalizing its commitment to B-Corp values and stakeholder-focused governance.
B-Corp certification is not permanent. Certified companies must undergo re-certification every three years to ensure they continue to meet the standards and maintain their B-Corp status.
5 Tips for Achieving B-Corp Certification
Based on the information available, there are several different recommended methods. The general rule of thumb is always to use the highest quality data source available.
I run an SME, can I apply to be a B-Corp?
As long as your for-profit business has been operating for a year, you can do the BIA and seek B-Corp certification. Your annual certification fee is based on your annual sales, with fees ranging from £1,000 - £50,000.
I've seen businesses with a 'Pending B-Corp' label, what is that?
It is a temporary status for start-ups with less than 12 months of operations who are looking to incorporate B Corp principles into their business before they can qualify for full B Corp Certification. Although this isn’t a prerequisite for certification, the Pending B-Corp process provides a valuable framework for a company to identify areas for development before transitioning to a fully-fledged B-Corp after 12 months. The 'Pending B-Corp' label costs £500 + VAT.
SMEs should expect a wait time of 6-8 months.
As long as your for-profit business has been operating for a year, you can do the BIA and seek B-Corp certification. Your annual certification fee is based on your annual sales, with fees ranging from £1,000 - £50,000.
It is a temporary status for start-ups with less than 12 months of operations who are looking to incorporate B Corp principles into their business before they can qualify for full B Corp Certification. Although this isn’t a prerequisite for certification, the Pending B-Corp process provides a valuable framework for a company to identify areas for development before transitioning to a fully-fledged B-Corp after 12 months. The 'Pending B-Corp' label costs £500 + VAT.
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