B the Change: Support Conscientious Businesses

From Warby Parker, the eyewear company which enables everyone who buys a pair for themselves to give a pair to someone in need, to Etsy, the online marketplace where that empowers anyone to be an entrepreneur, a new community of companies are stepping up to clarify that their priorities are not just making profits but also making a better marketplace.

These businesses, and 650 others like them—including folks you know like Ben & Jerry’s, Patagonia and Seventh Generation—are Certified B Corporations, a new type of company using the power of business to solve social and environmental problems. Think of B Corps like fair trade but for the whole business, not just a bag of coffee; B Corps are certified to create higher quality jobs, improve quality of life in our communities, and address some of society's most challenging environmental problems.

It's hard to argue with those priorities and everyday consumers can help encourage their wider adoption by spending conscientiously throughout the year. But there are other ways to advocate for better business, too, including:

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• Help pass laws that give companies the legal protection to be purpose-driven not profit-driven. We’ve already passed laws in 12 states, but have 38 to go. Sign the petition.
• Spread the word about a better way to do business. Friend or follow a B Corp or two.
• As holidays approach, buy a gift that gives back and shop for B Corps on vine.com.
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For more ideas, and to tell us yours, visit bcorporation.net/bthechange.