interests so purpose is not a slogan but a system. 4. Treat certification as a beginning. Plan for recertification every three years and engage employees and stakeholders in the ongoing work. As B Lab leaders often say, “Certification is not a finish line—it’s a starting line.” WHY THIS MATTERS NOW The global economy is at a turning point. Customers increasingly demand that brands demonstrate not just what they stand for, but how they act. Employees want workplaces that prioritize equity, belonging, and well-being. Regulators are pushing for more rigorous disclosures, and investors are scrutinizing sustainability claims with greater care. By sharpening its standards and aligning them with global frameworks, B Lab has given the B Corp movement renewed credibility and urgency. It offers a clear way for businesses to prove their commitment, measure their progress, and contribute to a broader transformation in how value is created. The promise is simple yet profound: when equity is embedded, when fair work is measured and improved, and when accountability is backed by transparent reporting, businesses can thrive while strengthening the communities and environments they touch. The updated B Corp standards provide the structure to make that promise real—helping companies not only walk the talk, but inspire others to follow. Inequality is widening. Public trust in institutions is under strain. And regulatory environments are shifting in ways that create both opportunities and risks. By establishing non-negotiable requirements across key impact areas, B Lab equips companies to navigate this complexity with clarity and confidence. PRACTICAL GUIDANCE FOR ASPIRING B CORPS For companies considering certification, the journey often starts long before the audit: 1. Build a cross-functional team. Engage decisionmakers and key voices across departments to ensure a holistic approach. 2. Use the B Impact Assessment honestly. Treat it as a diagnostic tool to understand where you are and where you need to go. 3. Embed values into governance. Align bylaws, policies, and incentives with stakeholder PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n B lab usca.bcorporation.net 6 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 08
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