Published on March 29th, 2024. Last updated on November 25th, 2024. 

B Lab Europe is committed to creating an inclusive and sustainable economy for all. In order to achieve this, we must address the systemic barriers faced by entrepreneurs from historically underserved groups from the shared prosperity all people deserve. An inclusive business landscape is not only a fundamental matter of social justice; it is also a critical aspect of building long-term, sustainable business models. Diverse perspectives and experiences are critical to an innovative, creative, and thriving economy.

Taking this into account, and in an effort to expand the accessibility and diversity of our certification program, we embarked into a thorough research project to evaluate the feasibility of diverse actions through which we could offer this particular service in a more equitable way. After several months exploring diverse alternatives in close collaboration with stakeholders representing the voices and challenges of diverse groups, we are announcing an Equity Discount aimed at supporting entrepreneurs who have historically faced systemic barriers in the business community.

Starting January 1st 2025, B Lab Europe will offer a 40% discount on annual certification fees in perpetuity for companies meeting the following criteria:

1. Have an annual revenue of less than €5 million and

2. > 50% ownership by individuals belonging to the following groups:

• Women

• People of Color and Underrepresented Ethnicities 

• LGBTQ+

• Persons with Disabilities

Disclaimer: Only one discount can be applied per B Corp at any given time. If your business qualifies for more than one available discount, B Lab Europe will apply the discount that results in the lowest certification fee. B Corps are not eligible for a discount retroactively. B Lab Europe does not revise or adjust invoices to apply a discount if a B Corp applies for the discount after the invoice has already been issued. B Corps will only qualify for a discount on their certification fee for the following year.

A first step of a wider journey

B Lab Europe acknowledges that pricing is not the only barrier to achieving B Corp certification. While the equity discount initiative represents a significant step forward, B Lab Europe is committed to addressing other barriers and expanding its research into more initiatives that will enhance the inclusivity of the B Corp movement. This commitment includes exploring additional support mechanisms, such as mentorship programs, educational resources, and networking opportunities, to ensure that all entrepreneurs, regardless of background or circumstance, have the opportunity to be part of our global movement of people using business as a force for good. 

By continuously evaluating and evolving our approach, at B Lab Europe, we aim to create a more equitable and accessible path for all businesses to pursue B Corp certification. We believe this will get us closer to our movement’s ultimate goal of co-creating an economic system rooted in positive social and environmental impact that benefits all people and the planet. 

How can companies apply for the Equity Discount?

Is your business eligible for the Equity Discount? You can now apply for the discount in the B Impact Assessment!

• After logging in to your account, please hover over to the left sidebar and find the B Corporation Certification tab. By clicking the small arrow next to it, its drop-down menu will open.
• You’ll find Fees & Discounts listed, in which you can see all your expected B Corp fees, and apply for the Equity Discount.
• By clicking Apply, someone from your local B Lab office will receive your application and approve/deny your request.
• Please allow 15 business days for the request to be judged. You can always check your status by following the above steps.
• Once approved, your discount is valid for 3 years, until your company will need to recertify to keep its B Corp certification.

If you run into any issues during application, or have questions about the result, please do not hesitate to contact your local B Lab representative.

Please contact your local B Lab office or info@bcorporation.eu, in case any questions. We look forward to hearing from you and making the B Corp movement more equitable than ever before!