When I founded Springboard Communications 13 years ago, I wanted to build a business that delivers a positive impact while making a real difference — for people, the planet, and our clients. Today, becoming a B Corp Certified agency feels like a natural culmination of that commitment — but more importantly, it marks the beginning of an even greater challenge. 

B Corp Certification is achieved by companies that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. Achieving this recognition is not about giving ourselves a pat on the back — it’s a promise. A promise to keep questioning how we work, who we work with, and the impact we leave behind. The journey to certification was rigorous — as it should be — and led brilliantly by our Director of Strategy & Insights, Sandy Boundy. Meaningful change is never easy, and I’m proud that we embraced that challenge. 

This Certification is our declaration of values in action. Here’s what that means to us. 

Putting People First 

Business, at its core, is about people. B Corp has pushed us to focus even more on the wellbeing, growth, and empowerment of our team and the communities we serve. 

One initiative I’m particularly proud of is our 3rd Level Access Bursary with the Cork Life Centre, which helps support young women to access further education. It’s one small way we’re investing in our communities and future talent. 

Closer to home, our team’s wellbeing has always been a top priority. From our Wellbeing Champion programmes and personal development plans to match funding for employee-led charity efforts, we’re building a workplace where people can thrive. As a female-led business, inclusivity is part of our DNA. Offering discounted rates for non-profits is another way we live our values in a practical, meaningful way. 

Prosperity with Purpose 

A common misconception about sustainability is that it comes at the expense of profitability. I’ve always believed the opposite — purpose drives prosperity. 

Nearly 10% of our revenue now comes from social impact organisations, and 90% of our suppliers are local. These numbers are encouraging, but what excites me most is the ripple effect. By working with purpose-driven clients and partners, we amplify each other’s impact. Together, we’re proving that aligning profit with purpose isn’t just possible — it’s powerful. 

Protecting the Planet 

As communicators, we know that stories matter — but those stories must align with action. That’s why we’re taking concrete steps to reduce our environmental impact. 

We’re measuring and benchmarking our carbon footprint, implementing a Zero Waste approach, and committing to biodiversity actions that make a tangible difference. Sustainability is about progress, not perfection, but we’re committed to doing our part to be part of the solution. 

Governance with Accountability 

Trust is at the heart of everything we do. B Corp Certification holds us to a higher standard, from ethical leadership to transparent governance. 

At Springboard, this means being PRCA-certified, guided by a clear Code of Ethics, and embedding accountability into our governance structure. It’s not about saying the right thing; it’s about doing the right thing — consistently and transparently. 

Why It Matters 

The world is changing. People and businesses are demanding more transparency, authenticity, and action. Nearly half of consumers now prioritise buying sustainable products to reduce their impact, and the businesses they support must align with these values. 

By aligning our operations and impact with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, we’re not just meeting market expectations — we’re meeting moral ones. 

Becoming B Corp certified reminds us that we’re part of something bigger. Together with our team, our clients, and our partners, we’re creating a better future. 

So, What’s Next? 

This is just the beginning. I’m excited for us to keep pushing ourselves to do better — for our team, our clients, and the planet. 

To our clients, this certification means you’re partnering with an agency that doesn’t just talk about sustainability — we live it. Whether it’s developing ESG-aligned communications strategies, building trust through transparency, or helping you tell your sustainability story with clarity and confidence, we’re here to help you make an impact. 

To our team, it’s a commitment to your growth, your well-being, and the values that bring us together. 

To our local community, we will continue to strive to make a positive impact and support.  

And to the planet, it’s a promise to tread lightly, to question the status quo, and to leave things better than we found them. 

We’re just getting started. Together, let’s build a future where business truly is a force for good. 

Post by Susie Horgan

Susie founded Springboard in 2011, and has developed the business into a leading, director-led communications agency. She has worked for over 20 years in senior marketing and public relations roles.