Impact Topic- Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI)
In April 2025, B Lab introduced a transformative update to its B Corp Certification standards, moving from a point-based system to mandatory minimum requirements across seven key Impact Topics. Among these, the ‘Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI)’ section takes centre stage as a vital area for businesses to address systemic inequalities while fostering inclusive practices.
What is Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI)?
JEDI represents B Lab’s commitment to embedding fairness, representation, and inclusivity into business operations and governance. This Impact Topic focuses on how organisations actively promote diversity within their teams, address inequities in their value chains, and ensure equitable outcomes for all stakeholders. By aligning with JEDI principles, businesses are not only creating more equitable workplaces but also driving systemic change within their industries and communities.
How is JEDI Different from Previous Standards?
Under the old B Lab Standards, aspects of diversity and inclusion were woven into various assessment areas but lacked a dedicated focus. The new JEDI Impact Topic centralises these issues, introducing specific requirements that demand meaningful action and measurable progress.
Key updates in the JEDI standards include:
Collecting and Utilising Data to Inform JEDI Actions:
Facilitating discussions or conducting surveys about JEDI principles in the workplace to understand perceptions and areas for improvement.
Collecting and analysing data on worker demographics, such as gender identities or sex at birth, to identify disparities in representation, hiring, promotion, and pay.
Conducting Comprehensive Equity Analyses:
Carrying out and disclosing equity audits to identify systemic disparities across all organisational levels, including hiring, promotion, pay, and representation.
Requiring large companies to assess inequities within their supply chains and address practices perpetuating systemic injustices.
Establishing and Implementing JEDI Actions and Targets:
Developing actionable plans to address inequities in hiring, procurement, and partnerships, with a focus on underrepresented groups.
Setting measurable diversity targets that reflect the demographics of the communities where businesses operate and tracking progress toward these goals.
Ensuring that the company’s highest governing body and executive team reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.
Ensuring Accountability and Safe Reporting Mechanisms:
Implementing confidential grievance mechanisms that protect employees and stakeholders from retaliation, ensuring they can safely report discrimination or exclusion.
Selecting and implementing JEDI actions based on stakeholder feedback and embedding them in formal plans for transparency and accountability.
Why Do These Changes Matter?
The JEDI Impact Topic is more than a set of compliance requirements, it is a call to action. By making justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion a core component of the certification process, B Lab is challenging businesses to go beyond performative statements and take tangible steps to address systemic inequities. This not only strengthens the integrity of the B Corp movement but also aligns businesses with the growing demand from employees, customers, and investors for more equitable and inclusive practices.
How to Comply with the New B Lab Standards
At Transformacy, we recognise that achieving meaningful change in JEDI practices requires intention, strategy, and accountability. Whether your organisation is starting its equity journey or looking to refine existing initiatives, we offer tailored support to help you meet the new B Lab standards. From conducting equity analyses and developing actionable plans to tracking progress and ensuring transparency, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Take the next step toward becoming a JEDI-aligned business. Contact us today to learn how transformacy can help you meet the updated B Lab standards and make a lasting impact on your employees, communities, and the world.