Everything you need to know about the new B Corp standards 2026

The certification B Corp is evolving significantly. Following a major overhaul published in April 2025 and a clarified version released in August 2025, the new standards will become the official certification reference starting in 2026. 

The B Corp movement is no longer content with a system based on a total score (e.g. 80/200 points). The certification is evolving towards a structured approach centered around mandatory minimum standards applied to all companies seeking certification or recertification starting in 2026. 

👉 What this means in practice

No more overall score masking sector weaknesses
Companies must now meet minimum criteria in each key area, rather than just achieving a high total score.

Formalized continuous improvement
Organizations must demonstrate not only that they meet the standards today but also that they are progressing over time (3 and 5 year cycles).

Third party involved in certification
An independent external audit is now required to ensure the veracity of impact evidence, a significant step towards credibility and against greenwashing. 

When does this apply?

January 2026 — opening of certifications under the new standards for existing and new companies. 

February 2026 — independent external audits begin to be deployed. 

June 2026 — new companies can submit their applications under the new standards. 

⚠️ Important: after February 2026, only new certifications under these standards will be possible; the old system will no longer be open for starting a certification. 

What the 7 new standards require 

While the old B Impact Assessment system tolerated trade-offs between categories, the new framework is based on strict minimum requirements in 7 areas:

1️⃣ Mission & governance integrated with stakeholders
• Increased transparency and genuine decision-making practices involving employees, partners, clients, etc.

2️⃣ Human rights
• Concrete measures to eliminate negative direct impacts and in the supply chain. 

3️⃣ Fair working conditions
• Living wage, pay equity, support for well-being and advancement. 

4️⃣ Justice, equity, diversity & inclusion (JEDI)
• Structured, measurable action plan tracked over time. 

5️⃣ Concrete climate action
• Annual GHG emissions measurement + concrete environmental action plan. 

6️⃣ Environmental management & circularity
• Impact reduction, ongoing strategy with suppliers, circular economy.

7️⃣ Public affairs & collective action
• Engagement in their industry to amplify social and environmental impact.

In summary 

• The B Corp movement is transforming to be more rigorous, credible, and demanding.

   

• Companies must demonstrate not only best practices today but also clear progress in the future.
  
  

• A global audience, external audits, and a series of mandatory minimum standards redefine what a truly committed company for people and the planet looks like. 

Article written by Thomas 🙂