Contents
Overview
The concept of B Corp certification was pioneered by B Lab, a non-profit organization founded in 2006 by Jay Coen Gilbert, Bart Houlahan, and Andrew Kassoy. This movement has inspired companies like The Body Shop and Seventh Generation to prioritize social and environmental responsibility. As of March 2025, there are 9,576 certified B Corporations across 160 industries in 102 countries, including Ben & Jerry's and Renewal Funds.
⚙️ How It Works
To become a certified B Corp, a company must undergo a rigorous assessment of its social and environmental performance, scoring a minimum of 80 out of 200 points. This assessment evaluates a company's impact on its workers, community, environment, and customers, as seen in companies like Triple Pundit and GreenBiz. Companies must also integrate B Corp commitments into their governing documents and pay an annual fee based on their sales, similar to New Belgium Brewing.
🌍 Cultural Impact
The cultural impact of B Corp certification cannot be overstated, with companies like Etsy and Kickstarter using their business as a force for good. By prioritizing social and environmental responsibility, B Corps are helping to create a more sustainable and equitable economy, as seen in the work of Social Enterprise Alliance and Ashoka. This movement is inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders to rethink the role of business in society, including Richard Branson and Arianna Huffington.
🔮 Legacy & Future
As the B Corp movement continues to grow and evolve, it's likely that we'll see even more innovative social enterprise models emerge. Companies like TOMS Shoes and Warby Parker are already pushing the boundaries of what it means to be a socially responsible business, and organizations like B Corps for Good are providing resources and support for companies looking to make a positive impact. With the rise of conscious capitalism, the future of business is looking brighter than ever, thanks to pioneers like John Mackey and Howard Schultz.
Key Facts
- Year
- 2006
- Origin
- United States
- Category
- conscious-capitalism
- Type
- concept
Frequently Asked Questions
What is B Corp certification?
B Corp certification is a prestigious badge of honor for companies prioritizing social and environmental impact. To become certified, a company must undergo a rigorous assessment of its social and environmental performance, scoring a minimum of 80 out of 200 points. Companies like Renewal Funds and Seventh Generation have achieved this certification.
How many B Corps are there?
As of March 2025, there are 9,576 certified B Corporations across 160 industries in 102 countries, including companies like Ben & Jerry's and The Body Shop.
What is the cultural impact of B Corp certification?
The cultural impact of B Corp certification is significant, with companies using their business as a force for good. This movement is inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders to rethink the role of business in society, including pioneers like John Mackey and Howard Schultz.
What are some examples of B Corps?
Some well-known B Corps include Patagonia, Warby Parker, and Etsy. These companies are prioritizing social and environmental responsibility and using their business as a force for good, similar to TOMS Shoes and New Belgium Brewing.
How can I get involved in the B Corp movement?
You can get involved in the B Corp movement by learning more about B Corp certification and the companies that have achieved it. You can also support B Corps by shopping at their stores, investing in their companies, or applying for a job at a B Corp, such as Kickstarter or GreenBiz.