Let's change the world...

One small business at a time

We are ORB. The Organisation for Responsible Businesses (ORB) is a member-owned, not-for-profit company limited by guarantee. Since 2010, ORB has promoted responsible business in the small business community as a fully integrative approach. This means how you operate internally matters as much as your external impact. Our members form a warm and welcoming community of like-minded sole traders, micro, and small business owners who believe that people, planet, profit and purpose should be aligned.

ORB vigorously protects the integrity of our membership with a 3-stage application process: a short online questionnaire, signing our Members’ Pledge, and a one-to-one Zoom call to get to know each other better and ensure our respective values are aligned.

how to apply 3 stages

Whatever stage your business is currently at, if you seriously want to become a better and more responsible business you can start straight away. We recommend small steps. We do not expect our members to make dramatic changes overnight but to continually push the boundaries to improve their business and increase their positive contribution to society. 

Membership rates start at only £10 per month, enabling you to immediately become part of a values-led community where members care for people and their communities, operate ethically and transparently, and are committed to protecting our environment. A membership that immediately amplifies your reputation, delivers a competitive advantage, and many other tangible benefits. CLICK HERE to start your application.

In addition to membership, the Organisation for Responsible Businesses offers a range of courses and evidence-based certifications, including our flagship Responsible Business Standard. 

We are passionate about the power of British SMEs to make a huge impact. We account for 98% of the economy, and ORB is the only national membership group that brings us together, united in our commitment to do do business responsibly. Sophie Lee, Founder, Electric Peach

I am proud to be an ORB member. The organisation and its members are supportive, responsive and purposeful. Clive Bonny, Founder, Strategic Management Partners

member grid

People, planet, profit. People come first in our slogan because at the heart of every enterprise is one or two people. We know each other by name and our members collaborate. Essentially, we support people first and foremost to support their responsible business journeys.

Smaller businesses have the power to make a real difference in our societies, from the local to the international level. But we need more businesses to change how they operate and consider their impact on people and the environment.

There’s nothing inherently wrong with businesses generating profit and appropriately compensating employees with good salaries. Every organisation, regardless of its type, needs to generate income exceeding its expenses to sustain itself. This principle applies universally, from the smallest community group to businesses of all scales, as well as the public sector, contributing to the overall economic balance of the country.

While profit shouldn’t always be the primary motivator for every organisation, the term “not-for-profit” is often misinterpreted. As an ORB member, we aim to support your company enhance profitability. What truly matters is how profits are earned and utilised. It’s crucial to avoid practices driven by greed, such as excessive executive salaries, inequitable treatment of employees, and exorbitant dividends for shareholders. In today’s society, such practices are simply unacceptable.

Those of us who stand for business growth based on goodness are truly stronger together. We would love you to join the journey,

As a small business owner do you lead with your values?

Deeply care about people and your community?

Protect the environment?

Operate responsibly and well?

 

If yes, membership is perfect for you.

Joining ORB has been transformative for Party Without Plastic, giving us credibility, support and connections with like-minded businesses to drive our sustainability mission further. ORB membership aligns perfectly with our values, inspiring and empowering us to lead the way in responsible, eco-conscious celebrations and offers invaluable support through a platform that’s driving positive change together. Lorraine Allman, Founder, Party Without Plastic