Schellman’s B-Corp Certification is Raising the Bar

In the fast-paced world of business, trust and credibility are table stakes. You've likely invested in compliance certifications to demonstrate your commitment to industry standards. But are you prepared to meet the rising expectations of a new generation of stakeholders who demand more than just compliance? 

Enter B-Corp certification—the gold standard for companies committed to social and environmental impact. Schellman's recent B-Corp certification isn't just a badge. It's a promise. It's proof that we're not just playing by the rules, we're raising the bar for ourselves and our partners.  

In this article, we’ll explain what it means and what it takes to become B-Corp certified, why we made the decision to do it as an organization, and why it could potentially matter to you—our clients, prospects, and potential team members. 

What B-Corp Means for Business 

B-Corp certification, sponsored by B Lab, isn't just another checklist. It's a movement rooted in a bold vision—to transform the global economy into one that works for everyone and the planet.  The challenges we face—inequality, environmental degradation, and declining well-being—require more than incremental changes.  In recognition of that, B Lab's Theory of Change calls for a fundamental shift in how we view the role of business in society:

• More Than Profit: B-Corps are evaluated not just on financial performance, but on their impact on employees, communities, the environment, and customers. 

• Accountability for All: B-Corps commit to considering the interests of all stakeholders, not just shareholders, in their decision-making. 

• Transparency as a Catalyst: By openly sharing their impact scores, B-Corps create a culture of transparency and continuous improvement. 

Achieving B-Corp certification is a significant undertaking that requires a deep understanding of the framework, strong leadership buy-in, and a willingness to adapt company practices and policies.

This commitment is central to the B-Corp philosophy—it's not enough to be good today; you must strive to be better tomorrow. That's why B-Corps are required to undergo recertification every three years, ensuring a continuous focus on positive impact. 

Why Do Organizations Get B-Corp Certified? 

So why go through the rigorous process of becoming B-Corp certified?

While it does offer market differentiation and a boost to a company's reputation, the benefits extend far beyond that with its appeal to various stakeholders: 

• Consumers: With climate change and social justice at the forefront of public concern, conscientious consumers increasingly favor brands committed to making a positive impact, and B-Corp certification provides trusted verification that a company meets high standards for social and environmental performance. 

• Talent: Being notably environmentally and socially conscious, Millennials and Gen Z workers often seek employers whose values align with their own,  B-Corp certification signals a company's genuine commitment to these values, making it a powerful differentiator in a competitive talent market. 

• Investors: Investors are increasingly recognizing the impact of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors on long-term performance—as B-Corp certification demonstrates a company's commitment to ESG principles, it can help pull in those investors who aim to align their financial goals with positive social and environmental impact. 

 Aside from its appeal to outsiders, B-Corp certification also offers several internal advantages: 

• Operational Improvements: The rigorous assessment process helps identify areas for enhancement, leading to increased efficiency and effectiveness. 

• Networking Opportunities: Certification involves engaging with a vibrant B-Corp community, fostering collaboration, support, and shared learning. 

• Regulatory and Compliance Proactiveness: Maintaining B-Corp's high standards helps organizations stay ahead of evolving regulations and reduce compliance risks. 

Why Did Schellman Pursue B-Corp Certification?

For Schellman, becoming B-Corp certified was a natural evolution, not a revolution. Creating a positive impact has always been part of our DNA. Our commitment to our people, clients, and community has been a cornerstone of our identity from day one—B-Corp certification simply formalizes what we've always believed: business can and should be a force for good. 

Our decision to pursue B-Corp certification was driven by several key factors: 

• Alignment with Company Values: B-Corp certification provides a structured framework to measure, improve, and be accountable for our social and environmental impact, ensuring that our actions match our core values and mission. 

• Advantages in Attracting and Retaining Talent: We aim to be an employer of choice for individuals who share our passion for making a difference, and B-Corp certification signals to prospective and current employees that we are committed to positive impact. 

• Improvement of Client Relationships: Many of our clients are also committed to sustainability and social responsibility, and so in becoming B-Corp certified, we can now demonstrate our shared values and strengthen our partnerships into deeper, more meaningful client relationships. 

• Leadership By Example: As our B-Corp certification is a testament to our belief that businesses can drive significant positive change, we hope to inspire others to adopt a more responsible and sustainable approach.  

Ultimately, B-Corp certification represents more than just a badge—it signifies a fundamental shift in how we view business and its role in society.

Why Schellman’s B-Corp Certification Matters to You 

We're thrilled to embark on this B Corp journey, not just for ourselves but for you. Our commitment to sustainability isn't just about transforming Schellman into the model cybersecurity assessment firm—it's about strengthening our collaboration and creating shared value. 

Even if B-Corp certification isn't on your immediate agenda, our journey offers tangible benefits for you: 

• A Shared Commitment to a Better Way of Doing Business: When you choose Schellman, you're choosing a partner who is equally invested in social and environmental responsibility.

• Proven Results: The rigorous B-Corp assessment process independently validates our performance and dedication to continuous improvement. 

• Amplified Impact: By partnering with us, you join a global community of businesses driving positive change when your actions—amplified through our network—contribute to a larger movement for good. 

• Strengthened Brand: Aligning with a B-Corp-certified company like Schellman enhances your reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking organization. 

Essentially, when you choose Schellman, you're now not just getting a trusted cybersecurity partner – you're becoming part of a movement that's transforming the way business operates and paving the way to a better future.

Interested in Partnering with Us? 

Obtaining B-Corp certification marks an organization’s dedication to positive social and environmental impact, accountability, and transparency through its required alignment of business practices to better promote societal good. Now that Schellman’s B-Corp-certified, our partners—and potential partners—can also benefit from our association in several ways. 

We’re excited about this new way forward, and we hope you are too. To learn more about Schellman, our services, and how we can assist you, explore our B-Corp profile or contact us today.