Today, the idea that business can be a force for good is mainstream…but it wasn’t always that way. The early pioneers, including host Carol Cone, invested and contributed to the creation of Business for Social Responsibility, a sustainable business network and consultancy focused on creating a world in which all people can thrive on a healthy planet, in 1992. Fourteen years later, three college friends launched a new movement: one that would transform the global economy through a standards and certification process designed to benefit all stakeholders.
This was the launch of B Lab, the nonprofit organization that sets the standards for and certifies businesses driving an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy. These businesses make up the B Corporation movement – distinguished by their special “B” logo.
We invited Eleanor Allen, B Lab’s new Lead Executive, who has taken the reins from its original founders to speak to the present and future of both B Lab and B Corps.
Listen for insights on:
- What B Corp certification is and why your company should pursue it
- The future for B Corp certification standards
- Why large, publicly traded companies are becoming B Corps
- How B Lab’s tools can help companies evaluate their ESG performance without applying for certification
Resources + Links:
- (00:00) - Welcome to Purpose 360
- (00:13) - B Lab • Eleanor Allen
- (03:02) - Eleanor's Background
- (04:41) - Advice
- (06:28) - What Is a B Corp
- (07:53) - B Corp Community
- (08:46) - Mainstream?
- (09:42) - B Impact Assessment
- (11:26) - Benefits
- (13:17) - Best Practice Sharing in the Community
- (14:38) - Common Questions
- (15:20) - Standouts
- (18:00) - Demand
- (19:12) - Rollout Duration
- (20:10) - Response
- (22:17) - Evolution
- (23:02) - 10 Year Vision
- (24:40) - Advice
- (26:32) - Why Become a B Corp?
- (28:10) - Wrap Up