Step-by-Step B Corp Certification Process
Step 1: Register Your Company
Begin by registering your company on the B Impact platform and providing basic company information.
Step 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.
Step 3: Define Scope, Track, and Risk Profile
–Complete a risk profile questionnaire
Provide details on company structure, size, sector, and industry
–B Lab defines your certification scope and track
Submit eligible brands for logo use (subject to approval)
Step 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.
Step 5: Sign the B Lab Agreement
Formally agree to the terms and conditions required for certification.
Step 6: Assign an Assurance Provider
B Lab assigns an independent assurance provider and shares your documentation with them.
Step 7: Prepare for the Audit
Sign the agreement with the assurance provider and prepare all necessary documentation and evidence.
Step 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.
Step 9: Receive Audit & Corrective Action Reports
You will receive:
- An audit report
- A corrective action report outlining any nonconformities and required actions
Step 10: Address Nonconformities
Submit a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) detailing how issues will be resolved.
Provide evidence to address major nonconformities within specified timelines.
Step 11: Certification Decision
The assurance provider makes the final certification decision.
Certification is only granted once all major nonconformities are resolved.
Step 12: Certification Issued
If successful, your company receives a B Corp certificate, valid for up to five years, subject to ongoing compliance.
Step 13: Licence Issued & Public Profile
After signing the license agreement:
- Your B Corp profile is published on the B Lab website
- You gain the right to use the B Corp logo
Step 14: Ongoing Compliance & Recertification
Certified companies must undergo:
- Year 3 surveillance audits
- 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.
