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
- (01:19) - B Lab • Eleanor Allen
- (04:07) - Eleanor's Background
- (05:46) - Advice
- (07:33) - What Is a B Corp
- (08:58) - B Corp Community
- (09:52) - Mainstream?
- (10:47) - B Impact Assessment
- (12:32) - Benefits
- (14:22) - Best Practice Sharing in the Community
- (15:43) - Common Questions
- (16:25) - Standouts
- (19:06) - Demand
- (20:17) - Rollout Duration
- (21:15) - Response
- (23:22) - Evolution
- (24:07) - 10 Year Vision
- (25:45) - Advice
- (27:38) - Why Become a B Corp?
- (29:16) - Wrap Up