B Corp 2.0 | Government Affairs & Collective Action

The transition to “B Corp 2.0” introduces new standards that challenge businesses to think beyond their own operations and contribute to systemic change. The Government Affairs & Collective Action impact topic emphasizes the importance of using profit to solve the existential challenges, or polycrisis, by influencing public policy, fostering collective solutions, and deepening transparency.

Why is This Topic Important to the World?

Collective action and responsible government affairs are crucial for addressing complex global challenges that no business can solve alone. Climate change, inequity, and resource depletion are systemic issues that require coordinated efforts from businesses, governments, and civil society.

Today, the world faces unprecedented challenges that demand innovative solutions. When companies collaborate with industry peers, policymakers, and other stakeholders, they can pool resources, share knowledge, and develop more effective approaches to tackling issues like fair and transparent supply chains, circular economy practices, and equitable economic growth.

The importance of this topic lies in its potential to transform how businesses engage with society and governance structures. By promoting responsible lobbying and collective action, companies can contribute to shaping policies and practices that benefit all stakeholders, fostering a more sustainable and equitable global economy. This shift from isolated corporate actions to coordinated efforts for systemic change is a part of building an economy that addresses the root causes of social and environmental challenges.

Why Will This Topic Make Businesses More Resilient?

Companies that engage in responsible government affairs and collective action are better positioned to anticipate regulatory changes, shape policy environments, and build trust with stakeholders. Transparent lobbying and tax practices reduce reputational risks and demonstrate accountability. By participating in multi-stakeholder collaborations and industry initiatives, businesses can drive innovation, share knowledge, and accelerate progress on shared challenges—strengthening their own resilience and supporting the broader systems they rely on.

In an era where consumers increasingly demand ethical conduct from brands they support, companies that lead in government affairs and collective action can gain a competitive advantage while contributing to systemic change.

What’s Required in This Topic? 

To meet the new B Corp standards for Government Affairs & Collective Action, companies must fulfill a few focused requirements, which scale in rigor and scope based on company size and impact:

• Responsible Lobbying & Political Engagement: Adopt a public lobbying policy that outlines the company’s approach to public policy engagement, aligning it with your purpose and impact. Publicly disclose lobbying positions, policy priorities, and political contributions, including activities conducted directly or through trade associations. For larger companies, provide more detailed reporting and ensure lobbying activities do not contradict B Corp values (misalignment may affect eligibility for certification).
• Transparent & Fair Tax Practices: Publicly report country-by-country tax payments, especially for larger or multinational companies, to demonstrate fair contribution to public infrastructure and services.
• Meaningful Collective Action: Participate in or lead collective initiatives that advance your sector’s social or environmental impact, such as industry coalitions, advocacy campaigns, or multi-stakeholder collaborations. Demonstrate active contribution, such as holding leadership roles, participating in working groups, or providing expertise and mentoring to other organizations. The scale and formality of participation should increase with company size and influence; for example, small companies may mentor peers, while larger companies should demonstrate systematic and strategic engagement.

How Can Your Company Prepare? 

To prepare for these requirements, review your current lobbying, advocacy, and tax practices for transparency and alignment with your stated mission. Identify opportunities to participate in or lead collective action initiatives relevant to your industry or community, and track your contributions and outcomes. For larger companies, ensure systematic approaches and robust documentation to meet higher standards of transparency and engagement.

Looking for support from a partner? If you need support interpreting the new B Corp standards or embedding responsible government affairs and collective action into your business strategy, our team brings deep experience in building accountable, impact-driven organizations. Get in touch.