Age Inclusion in B Corps: Driving Purpose and Performance

At ProAge, we partner with organizations committed to creating inclusive workplaces where everyone can thrive—regardless of age. For certified B Corporations (B Corps), who are already champions of ethical business and social impact, embracing age inclusion isn’t just a natural fit; it’s a strategic advantage.

In this blog, we explore why age inclusion is vital for B Corps striving to be employers of choice and how it aligns with the core values that make your certification meaningful.

The Overlooked Dimension of Diversity in the Workplace

B Corps have made tremendous strides in championing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). However, age is often left out of this conversation, despite being a key dimension of workplace diversity.

With people living and working longer, age inclusion is more relevant than ever. Today, one third of the UK workforce (33%)[1] is over the age of 50. Additionally, 750,000 people aged between 50 and 65 are actively seeking employment[2].

At ProAge, we work with organizations to highlight that this demographic isn’t a challenge; it’s an opportunity. Older workers bring experience, resilience, and valuable insights that can enrich decision-making and drive innovation.

Why Age Inclusion Aligns with B Corp Values

B Corps strive to balance profit and purpose. Age inclusion complements this mission by enhancing workplace diversity and strengthening the social impact that B Corps aim to achieve:

1. Workplace Innovation: Research consistently shows that age-diverse teams are more innovative and effective. B Corps can set themselves apart by cultivating multigenerational teams that draw on the unique strengths of employees at every stage of life.

   
   

2. Social Responsibility: Addressing ageism is a powerful way to demonstrate leadership in social impact. By valuing older workers, B Corps can help combat one of the most pervasive forms of workplace discrimination, truly practicing the principles of equity.

   
   

3. Economic Sustainability: Supporting older workers has broader societal benefits, from reducing economic inactivity to enhancing financial wellbeing. B Corps that lead on age inclusion not only strengthen their own talent pipelines but also contribute to a healthier economy.

   
   

Building Your Employer Brand for All Ages

For B Corps committed to being employers of choice, age inclusion is a critical component of an attractive workplace culture. Offering flexible working arrangements, mentorship opportunities, and lifelong learning programs signals that your organization values employees at every life stage.

As a B Corp, your commitment to creating inclusive workplaces also serves as a powerful differentiator in attracting top talent. Older workers are increasingly seeking employers who value their skills and provide opportunities for meaningful work. Interestingly, younger employees are also drawn to organizations that demonstrate fairness and inclusion across all demographics.

Attracting and Retaining Top Talent

Creating an inclusive workplace serves not only ethical purposes but also strategic ones. Integrating aged diversity can involve several initiatives. For instance, implementing training programs aimed at upskilling older workers can empower them and lead to increased job satisfaction.

Furthermore, mentorship can work both ways. Younger employees can gain valuable insights from older colleagues, while older workers can learn about tech-savvy tools being used today. Creating intergenerational mentorship programs can bridge this gap effectively.

ProAge’s Call to Action for B Corps

At ProAge, we believe that age inclusion should be at the heart of your DEI strategy. For B Corps, this is an opportunity to lead by example, setting new standards for ethical, inclusive workplaces.

Start by asking:

• Are our recruitment practices inclusive of older candidates?

• Do we provide flexible working options and training opportunities for employees at all stages of their careers?

• How are we fostering intergenerational collaboration in our teams?

  
  

By embracing age inclusion, you’re not only living up to the ideals of your B Corp certification but also driving better business outcomes and creating a meaningful impact in the communities you serve.

Your Next Steps Towards Age Inclusion

Let ProAge help you integrate age inclusion into your strategy. Together, we can ensure your organization becomes a model for others to follow. Learn more about our work and the training we offer.

Let’s build workplaces where age is never a barrier—only an asset.

[1] A05 SA: Employment, unemployment and economic inactivity by age group (seasonally adjusted) ONS

[2] Economic labor market status of individuals aged 50 and over, trends over time: September 2024. Gov.UK