In 2026, B Corp® certification is evolving and being strengthened through the implementation of the new B Lab V2.1 standards. Starting in January, B Lab will begin recertifying existing companies under these new requirements, and from March onwards, new applicants will be able to get certified. This marks a major turning point for the impact business movement, as certification will be reorganized around a more rigorous audit process focused on measuring results and progress over time.
What changes in B Corp® certification from 2026
The new V2.1 standards redefine certification criteria by strengthening measurability and performance. Among the many changes introduced, the audit process will be entirely reorganized and reinforced.
Audits conducted by independent organizations
First major change: how audits will be conducted. Verifications will now be carried out by independent organizations, referred to as “assurance providers.” This change aligns the certification process with recognized international standards, ensuring rigor while simplifying the process.
A five-year evaluation cycle
Another key development: certification becomes a true ongoing process. B Corp® certification V2.1 introduces a five-year evaluation cycle, including follow-up reviews at regular intervals (at years 3 and 5). Each company will need to demonstrate not only that it meets the initial requirements, but also that it is making progress on its impact objectives over time. The audit thus becomes a central element of the system, ensuring that continuous improvement is effectively verified.
Surveillance audits adapted to company size
To ensure consistent monitoring between two recertifications, intermediate surveillance audits will be implemented.
The review schedule will be adapted to the size and complexity of each company:
- micro and small organizations will be audited in years 0, 3, and 5,
- larger companies will undergo annual audits.
This graduated approach strengthens the reliability of the process while taking into account each organization’s capacity.
A distinction between minor and major non-conformities
Finally, the process becomes more precise with a clear distinction between types of non-conformities. Audits will now distinguish between minor non-conformities (isolated gaps) and major non-conformities (structural issues). Identified minor gaps will not block certification and can be corrected before the next evaluation. However, major non-conformities must be resolved as a priority, with certification postponed until they are addressed.
These updates introduce new steps that fully restructure the verification procedure.
The strategic benefits of the revised B Corp standards
Beyond strengthening requirements, this evolution aims to consolidate the credibility of the label and provide companies with a more secure, clearer, and more recognized framework. It also helps reduce financial, legal, and reputational risks, while promoting transparency.
Greater credibility through strengthened audits
In a context saturated with environmental and social claims, the B Corp® label must remain a reliable benchmark. The use of independent third-party organizations accredited by B Lab aligns the process with ISO 17021-1 audit standards and strengthens the reliability of certification.
Increased protection against greenwashing
The new audit process strengthens external verification and protects companies against misleading claims. In addition, the V2.1 standards include a verified communication toolkit, ensuring a safe and transparent presentation of company commitments.
Simplified compliance with European requirements
With the Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition (ECGT) directive, any company operating in the European market must now prove the accuracy of its environmental claims. So-called “ECGT-impacted” companies (those selling to EU consumers) will find in B Corp V2.1 a simplified compliance tool, fully integrating legal requirements through the new audit process.
Conclusion: anticipating V2.1 to strengthen credibility and structure sustainable transformation
Companies certified under the new standards will become pioneers, fully embracing their social and environmental responsibilities. The audit is no longer just a control mechanism: it becomes both proof of commitment and a driver of progress. Anticipating V2.1 means strengthening credibility, structuring your approach, and demonstrating a long-term commitment to improvement.
At BetterBusiness, we support companies that want to prepare now for these new requirements: understanding the changes, assessing their impacts, adapting their CSR action plan, and monitoring compliance.
A concrete way to turn these changes into an opportunity for sustainable progress.
