You may have heard the term “B Corp” or seen a brand advertise itself as such, but what exactly does it mean? Short for “Benefit Corporation”, certified B Corps are redefining success in business with an integrated profit, social, and environmental model.

In this article, we’ll discover the performance standards for B Corps, why you should support them, and nine Canadian companies that are leading the change. If you want to help a business do well by also doing good, keep reading!

 What is a certified B Corporation?

A certified B Corp is a company that meets the highest standards of transparency, responsibility, environmental, and social impact. From environmental impact to fair wages, B Corps are legally required to consider the impact of their decisions on all stakeholders. These companies also understand that there is more to business than just profit.

Currently, Canada has over 230 B Corp companies across a range of industries. Using business as a force for social and environmental good, B Corps just might be the new way to do business in this country. In our list below we’re exploring eight Canadian B Corps you can support today.

1. GOOD food for GOOD

The name doesn’t lie – GOOD food for GOOD donates one meal through their partnered food banks every time a customer buys a jar of their products. Their Buy One, Feed One mission aims to fight world hunger by providing delicious food every step of the way. To date, the company has donated over 900,000 meals! GOOD food for GOOD offers a range of all-natural, no sugar added sauces like ketchup and BBQ. Unlike big brands like Heinz, their sauces are packaged in glass jars that can be recycled and reused again and again.  

2. Beau’s All Natural Brewery

A B Corp Brewery? I’ll drink to that! Beau’s Brewing Co. is a family-owned brewery in Vankleek Hill, Ontario, that has been crafting unique beers since 2006. From the organic ingredients to eco-friendly coasters, this company aims to reduce its environmental impact with each business decision. In 2014, Beau’s also became the first brewery in Canada to choose 100% green natural gas – as if you needed another reason to try their brews!

3. Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods

Manitoba Harvest offers customers a range of hemp-based products including seeds, granola, oils, and a line of protein powders. Working with the best local growers, this superfood brand is committed to sustainable production practices. Their products are filled with quality, organic ingredients that you can feel good about. Aligning with B Corp values, Manitoba Hemp is completely transparent in every aspect of their company. If you’re looking to level up your wellness game, consider sprinkling a little Manitoba Hemp in your meals!

4. Saul Good Gift Co

Saul Good Gift Co helps you with green gift gifting with thoughtfully curated gift baskets. Their gift baskets feature a diverse range of locally-made products from Canadian artisans. Whether you are buying for your boss or a new baby, every product has been carefully chosen to support local economies and sustainability. This B Corp also offers customized branded gifts for local businesses and events.

5. Poppy Barley

If you’re going to invest in anything you wear, let it be shoes! Based in Edmonton, Poppy Barley sells luxury footwear that is made to last. The brand uses responsibly-sourced materials and offers vegan alternatives for those who steer clear of leather shoes. Poppy Barley is also doing its part to reduce plastic waste in Canada, using a shoebox and mailer all in one that is made from recycled paper.

 6. Aisle

For the ladies, check out Vancouver-based Aisle. They offer reusable cloth pads, menstrual cups, and a line of women’s underwear. Formerly called Lunapads, the brand was one of the first in the world to release a sustainable menstrual product. They may have changed their name, but this female-owned company continues to provide women with innovative, comfortable period products. Check out this post to read more on sustainable periods.

 7. Encircled

This Canadian clothing brand offers modern basics that are consciously crafted. This ethical brand encourages consumers to invest in high-quality pieces that will last for years to come. Their clothing is multi-functional and made using sustainable fabrics that are free of harmful chemicals. Plus, all clothing is made locally at factories just outside Toronto!

8. DIRTT

Calgary-based DIRRT designs and builds custom, sustainable office interiors. DIRRT stands for “doing it right this time”. Its mission is to revolutionize the way people work by creating dynamic workspaces. When building new spaces, DIRRT aims to minimize energy, water, and material waste.

9. Fair Trade Jewellery Co.

This Toronto-based jewelry company designs stunning pieces that are made from ethically sourced materials. Many of their items are made with the responsible AKARA brand – the world’s most traceable gold, diamonds, and precious gems. With strong values in community activism, this B Corp donated over $34k to food banks and local charities since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic.  

When you buy from a B Corp, you are not only supporting a socially responsible business but contributing to a greater end. Have you purchased from a B Corp recently and if so, which one? Let me know in the comments!