B Corp certification

B Corp is an independent certification body focused on promoting the highest standards of corporate environmental and social responsibility. There are currently more than 8,000 certified B Corps around the world in industries ranging from fashion to food to finance. The B Corp certification process provides one of the most robust measures of sustainability performance – highlighting the key B Corp benefits such as standing out from the competition, growing your influence and attracting talent. For organisations exploring how to get B Corp certified, the process offers a clear framework to assess and improve sustainability practices while demonstrating genuine impact.

The B Impact Assessment (BIA) examines how a company impacts its employees, community, environment and customers, as well as its governance structure. The assessment is divided into two parts: Operations, which covers day-to-day activities, and Impact Business Models, which recognises business models that create additional positive impact. The assessment framework is updated every three years.

Except for the specific cases listed on the B Corp controversial issues page, any established for-profit company can pursue B Corp certification, and companies of any size are eligible. However, there may be additional requirements if a company is less than one year old, has affiliate entities or is a large multinational or public corporation.

The time it takes to complete the certification process – from starting the B Impact Assessment to meeting legal requirements and announcing certification – depends on the size and complexity of the company. Small to medium-sized companies can typically expect the process to take 8 to 12 months. However, for large multinationals, companies with numerous affiliate entities or those in controversial industries the verification process may take longer.

B Corp certification offers a holistic assessment focused on a company’s overall social and environmental impact, including governance and stakeholder engagement, beyond specific operational policies. Unlike ISO 14001, which concentrates on environmental management systems, and EcoVadis, which evaluates sustainability management practices, B Corp requires companies to legally commit to balancing profit with purpose. To explore which certification best fits your organisation’s sustainability ambitions, Nexio Projects can provide tailored advice.

Yes, B Corp certification is widely recognised for its credibility and is known to positively influence consumer purchasing decisions by signalling authentic social and environmental commitment. Studies show a majority of consumers familiar with B Corp prefer certified products or services. Our experts can help you leverage the B Corp label to build brand trust and unlock new business opportunities.

Yes, certified B Corps must amend their governing documents to embed commitments to social and environmental performance, ensuring sustained mission alignment even during ownership changes. This legal framework protects the company’s purpose-driven ethos. Our B Corp consultants can guide your organisation through these legal requirements to ensure compliance and long-term success.

Becoming a B Corp connects your organisation to a global network of over 9,000 like-minded businesses across diverse industries, offering extensive opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and collective action on sustainability challenges. Nexio Projects can support you in making the most of this community to drive impact and growth.

As a certified B Corp and official B Corp Way partner since 2019, Nexio Projects brings firsthand experience to help companies achieve B Corp certification and embed impact into business. Headquartered in the Netherlands and recognised by Verdantix as a leading ESG and sustainability consultancy, our sustainability experts have worked with over 400 clients in 20 countries across sectors like manufacturing, logistics and consumer goods. Acting as a skilled B Corp consultant and ESG advisory firm, we support companies through every step of the B Impact Assessment and beyond, from stakeholder engagement to governance improvement. Whether you are beginning your B Corp journey or seeking to recertify with stronger scores, Nexio Projects is your experienced partner in purpose driven growth.