86 countries worldwide have adopted the new type of company known as a B Corp. These companies are different from traditional corporations in that they have a social and environmental mission in addition to making a profit. They are certified by the non-profit B Lab and have met strict standards for social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.

In 2009, the first Canadian B Corp was certified. Today, there are 606 B Corps in Canada, representing a wide range of industries. And that makes up almost 11% of certified companies worldwide. When you buy from a B Corp, you're not just supporting a company; you're also supporting one that has made a commitment to positive societal and environmental change. In this blog post, we'll take a look at 7 examples of Canadian B Corps that are making the world a better place.

Riddl

Riddl is ESG measurement software that companies and investors can use to monitor their ESG performance over time. It benchmarks results, tracks progress, and quantifies the value of impact and return on investment. This allows stakeholders to make more informed decisions about where to allocate resources for maximum benefit. At Riddl, they think that rather than keeping impact and ESG data separate, it would be more advantageous to use them as one. This way, the data can be used for different reports and frameworks, not only for ESG reporting but also for measuring impact.

Riddl was designed with the goal of not only collecting data but also understanding what each data point means. By collecting various data points, they can make more accurate predictions about success and solve hard problems more quickly.

Kwench

Kwench is a full-service work and culture club in Victoria, BC, that offers services such as high-speed internet, local coffee and tea, bike storage, meeting rooms, and printing facilities to help you get the most out of your coworking community. This culture club was founded on the idea that happiness comes from a combination of six things: knowledge, wellness, experiences, novelty, curiosity, and connection. They believe that having all six of these in your life will lead to a healthier and happier lifestyle.

According to Tessa McLoughlin (owner), Kwench is the club for those who want more out of life. It's for people who are tired of the status quo and are looking to learn, grow, and be part of something bigger than themselves.

CTRS Market Intelligence

CTRS helps organizations in North America make better decisions by providing market intelligence research and analysis. Their services enable leaders to take advantage of market signals so they can make informed decisions about the future of their organization. Since it was established in 2003, CTRS has helped over 700 organizations use market intelligence and research to improve key performance indicators (KPIs), obtain funding, reach new audiences, and create strategies that can be put into action. Market intelligence is the link between business intelligence (or market research) and actionable strategy.

Before you introduce a new product/service or venture into unknown market territory, you need to analyze the potential success of your efforts within the context of that particular industry. The findings from market intelligence can help support your bid for capital investment, guide plans to invest in personnel or physical resources, shape your sales and marketing strategies, and/or increase your chances of being awarded grants.

Humanity Financial

As Canada's top CPA and bookkeeping and accounting firm for the social purpose sector, Humanity Financial Management Inc. has given support to over 70 well-known charities and non-profits (including a number of BC First Nations) since 2008. The primary purpose of Humanity Financial is to build the capacity, credibility, and confidence of Canada's charities, nonprofits, and social enterprises through their approach to finances. This involves providing financial management and governance training for social enterprises—businesses operated by non-profits and charities designed to generate flexible funding streams while also enhancing their community impacts.

Humanity Financial is the first and only accounting firm in Western Canada to be certified as a B corporation. They achieved this by taking care of the environment, "paying it forward" through community investment and volunteer service, and giving their staff above-average pay, perks, and appreciation.

BDC

BDC was the first financial institution in Canada to receive the B Corp certification in 2013.Their only focus is promoting Canadian entrepreneurship by helping small and medium-sized businesses. They are devoted exclusively to entrepreneurs. BDC recognizes that entrepreneurs face unique challenges, and their commitment to the B Corp certification is a testament to their unwavering dedication and commitment to creating an environment of positive change.

BDC is a financial institution that strives to empower Canadian entrepreneurs by providing financing, consulting services, and capital, which in turn helps create jobs and build the economy. They also provide mentorship and advice to businesses, helping them strategize for success.

Made With Local

Although it started small at a farmers' market table, today Made with Local is a B-Corp certified food provider that can be found in stores across Canada. But even though they've grown, they are still baked at home in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, using local ingredients from locals.

Their B-Corp certification is something they have always strived for and reminds them to focus on providing a positive social and environmental impact with every decision. For example, when they partnered with the Flower Cart, a social enterprise that provides training and employment opportunities for locals who face various barriers to employment. The staff at Made With Local truly make their products with love.

KOTN

KOTN had a goal to create the perfect t-shirt without compromising quality, price, or the integrity of its makers. They are now a certified B corporation that was voted "Best for the World™" with the 4th highest score among apparel brands in North America. The company is dedicated to changing how things are made for the betterment of both people and the environment. They create products that are designed with thoughtfulness, manufactured with high quality standards, and offered at a fair price—all while making a positive impact.

Since the beginning, KOTN has been committed to driving social change. They’ve worked directly with the communities throughout their supply chain to make sure their needs are being met. By reinvesting a portion of the profits from every KOTN order, they've been able to create jobs and education opportunities that help alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development.

Canadian B Corps wrap up

Those were the 7 examples of Canadian B Corps that are making the world a better place. From banks to local food providers, these companies are transforming how business is conducted in Canada. They provide a shining example of how corporate social responsibility and ethical business practices can be used to make a positive impact on our communities and the environment.

If you are interested in being part of the B Corp community and using your business as a force for good, get in touch with us. We would love to help you make your dreams of making a positive impact come true. Reach out today and let’s have a chat about how we can help you become a Certified B Corp. Together, we can make the world a better place!

7 Examples of Canadian B Corps Making the World a Better Place