The new B Corp certification standard introduces significant changes, including a redesigned process for companies seeking certification. This guide explains the updated step-by-step journey to becoming a certified B Corporation.
Step-by-Step B Corp Certification Process
1. Register Your Company
Begin by registering your company on the B Impact platform and providing basic company information.
2. Assess Eligibility
Complete the Certification Setup process to evaluate your company against the B Lab foundational requirements. B Lab reviews this information to confirm eligibility.
3. Define Scope, Track, and Risk Profile
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Complete a risk profile questionnaire
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Provide details on company structure, size, sector, and industry
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B Lab defines your certification scope and track
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Submit eligible brands for logo use (subject to approval)
4. Complete the Self-Assessment
A tailored self-assessment is generated based on your track and risk profile.
Upload supporting evidence for all required impact topics within the B Impact platform.
5. Sign the B Lab Agreement
Formally agree to the terms and conditions required for certification.
6. Assign an Assurance Provider
B Lab assigns an independent assurance provider and shares your documentation with them.
7. Prepare for the Audit
Sign the agreement with the assurance provider and prepare all necessary documentation and evidence.
8. Conduct the Audit
The assurance provider performs a third-party audit, reviewing your self-assessment and evidence.
Audits may be conducted remotely or on-site, depending on your company’s track.
9. Receive Audit & Corrective Action Reports
You will receive:
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An audit report
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A corrective action report outlining any nonconformities and required actions
10. Address Nonconformities
Submit a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) detailing how issues will be resolved.
Provide evidence to address major nonconformities within specified timelines.
11. Certification Decision
The assurance provider makes the final certification decision.
Certification is only granted once all major nonconformities are resolved.
12. Certification Issued
If successful, your company receives a B Corp certificate, valid for up to five years, subject to ongoing compliance.
13. License Issued & Public Profile
After signing the license agreement:
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Your B Corp profile is published on the B Lab website
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You gain the right to use the B Corp logo
14. Ongoing Compliance & Recertification
Certified companies must undergo:
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Year 3 surveillance audits
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Recertification audits
Audit frequency depends on your company’s track and risk profile.
Final Thoughts
The updated B Corp certification process is more rigorous, transparent, and standardised than before. By requiring minimum performance across all impact areas and introducing third-party audits, B Lab ensures greater credibility and accountability for certified companies.
If your organisation is preparing for certification, early planning, strong documentation, and internal alignment are key to success.
