Introduction: Policy and regulatory change are necessary for a more inclusive, regenerative future

The report argues that voluntary corporate sustainability is insufficient to address systemic social and environmental challenges. B Lab U.S. & Canada positions policy and regulatory change as essential to building an inclusive, equitable and regenerative economy. Certified B Corporations are presented as credible advocates due to their measurement of social and environmental impact and stakeholder accountability. The report situates this work within a polarised ESG context in the United States and Canada, highlighting the need for values-driven business voices to counter misleading anti-ESG narratives and support systems change.

The importance of advocacy for B corps and impact organisations

The report highlights that businesses exert disproportionate influence on policymakers, particularly compared with civil society. Small and medium-sized enterprises, which make up most B Corps, are especially valued by legislators. B Corps are encouraged to engage across federal, state, provincial and local levels to advance a stakeholder economy. B Lab U.S. & Canada focuses its advocacy on three impact pillars: stakeholder economy, climate justice and racial equity. Sustained collective action is emphasised as necessary to dismantle unjust systems and deliver long-term value for workers, communities and the environment.

How and why B corps demonstrate and advocate for business as a force for good

B Lab U.S. & Canada’s advocacy goal is to support policies that enable a sustainable and equitable economy while building long-term credibility with policymakers. In the short to medium term, the focus is on relationship-building and providing a supportive business voice for aligned legislation. Over time, the aim is to secure consistent representation in policy discussions. The report notes increasing debate around ESG and justice, equity, diversity and inclusion, and positions impact measurement, disclosure and transparency as both good business practice and essential advocacy tools.

Business best practices and resources: New B corp standards for collective action

Collective action and advocacy are embedded in updated B Corp Certification standards finalised in April 2025. The revised framework replaces a flexible points-based system with mandatory requirements across seven impact topics. Government affairs and collective action standards require responsible lobbying, transparency in political engagement, and participation in at least one collective action advancing social or environmental impact. Larger businesses face broader expectations. Companies are also assessed on tax responsibility and alignment between association memberships and stated impact goals.

Developing your company’s advocacy goals

The report outlines practical steps for identifying advocacy priorities, starting with alignment to company mission and values. Businesses are encouraged to consider community needs, staff and customer priorities, organisational expertise and existing partnerships. Advocacy decision-making structures should clarify authority, internal communication and risk tolerance. Companies without internal capacity are advised to work with established partners such as B Locals, B Networks, or advocacy organisations to ensure effective and proportionate engagement.

Identifying B local and B network advocacy goals

B Locals and B Networks are presented as mechanisms for coordinated advocacy. The report recommends aligning on shared issue areas rather than isolated actions, as this improves impact and participation. Suggested approaches include board discussions, member surveys, partner outreach and monitoring emerging policy issues. B Lab U.S. & Canada offers direct support to help groups identify suitable advocacy pathways.

Approaching advocacy with B Lab’s requirements for responsible government engagement and collective action

Responsible lobbying is defined by transparency, public interest considerations, anti-corruption practices and respect for human rights frameworks. Collective action may include mentoring, funding external research, multistakeholder collaboration, policy promotion or thought leadership. Companies must disclose lobbying positions and ensure advocacy activities do not undermine their stated social or environmental purpose.

Specific advocacy tactics and examples

The report outlines practical tactics such as policy trainings, partnerships with advocacy organisations, meetings with policymakers, and participation in lobby days. These activities are intended to build long-term engagement rather than one-off actions. Partnerships are encouraged to leverage existing expertise and reduce risks associated with independent advocacy.

Case studies and examples of business advocacy in action

Case studies illustrate advocacy on climate policy, racial equity, LGBTQIA+ inclusion, voting rights and stakeholder governance. Examples include collaborative climate advocacy programmes, voter engagement initiatives and frameworks for sustained policy engagement. These demonstrate how collective business action can influence policy while remaining non-partisan and aligned with B Corp standards.