Can we brag really quick? The Asheville area is home to 12 Certified B Corporations, a number that has been steadily growing since Big Path Capital became our city's first B Corp backin 2007.

Today, we're honoring these remarkable companies, which have gone the extra mile and then some to make the world a better place.

But first, what's a B Corp again?

In short, it's a very difficult-to-earn certification (issued by the nonprofit B-lab) for companies that seek to change the world through the way they do business.

Specifically, B Corps are held accountable for sustainable practices, fair treatment of employees and customers, transparency in business matters + commitment to shareholders.

New Belgium produces approximately 500,000 barrels of beer a year. | Photo courtesy of New Belgium

And who are these companies?

The 12 Asheville Certified B Corps join an all-star roster of companies like Ben and Jerry's, Seventh Generation, Warby Parker, and Patagonia. You could say they’re in good company.

Big Path Capital | Certified since December 2007 | This financial advice firm serves business owners and fund managers in the impact and sustainable sector.

Cloud For Good | Certified since June 2013 | This company works with Salesforce to provide database support for nonprofits and educational organizations.

New Belgium Brewing | Certified since January 2013 | Social responsibility is a key part of this brewery's mission, which was founded in Fort Collins, CO and opened its Asheville production center + taproom in 2016. Read about how it helped restore Penland Creek and revitalize the surrounding area.

Earth Equity Advisors | Certified since October 2014 | This financial services firm focuses on fossil fuel-free planning + investments.

Deltec Homes, Inc. | Certified since February 2016 | This builder makes stunning, net-zero energy-efficient homes with a distinctive round design.

French Broad Chocolates | Certified since September 2017 | This iconic chocolate maker uses sustainably grown, fair-trade cacao for its sublimely delicious chocolate bars + other sweet treats.

JB Media Group | Certified since March 2018 | This digital marketing agency provide strategy, SEO, social media management, content creation, online advertising, and other marketing support for social enterprises and non-profits.

Gaia Herbs | Certified since October 2018 | This plant pharmaceutical company is one of the largest herbal brands in North America, with more than 200 patented extracts, powders, and herbal teas that aim to support a healthier lifestyle for its customers.

dmarcian | Certified since May 2019 | This tech company helps banks, top internet properties, governments, marketing agencies, and other enterprises optimize their DMARC, or in layman's terms, email security.

East Fork | Certified since May 2021 | If y'all don't already know these Instagram-famous potters, you should. This 120+ person team designs, manufactures, and sells thoughtful, durable ceramic dishware in gorgeous glazes like Butter, Amaro, and Panna Cotta. Its signature dishes can be spotted at many Asheville restaurants.

BlueEarth | Certified since December 2021 | This environmental consulting firm provides water resources planning, engineering, and design with the Earth and all of its inhabitants in mind.

Bloom Communications | Certified since 2022 | This communications agency partners exclusively with mission-driven organizations dedicated to growing and impacting their communities.

Interested in becoming B Corps certified?

B Local Asheville offers support to businesses and community partners who want to get certified.