SMEs Encouraged to Strengthen Sustainability Credentials Through Business Working Responsibly Mark 

SMEs Encouraged to Strengthen Sustainability Credentials Through Business Working Responsibly Mark 

Business in the Community Ireland (BITCI) is now extending its Business Working Responsibly Mark certification to SMEs. The Business Working Responsibly Mark is Ireland’s leading standard for Economic, Environmental, Social and Governance (EESG) performance and provides organisations with a comprehensive framework to embed sustainability across their business operations and demonstrate credible leadership in responsible business practice.  

As sustainability becomes an increasingly important factor in supply chain expectations, regulatory developments and customer requirements organisations need a trusted way to demonstrate their commitment that is authentic, independently verified and widely recognised.  

Administered by BITCI, the Business Working Responsibly Mark is independently certified by the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI). Funding supports are also available through Enterprise Ireland to help eligible SMEs undertake the certification process. 

Lis Dare, Business Working Responsibly Mark Manager said: “Already many of BITCI members across multiple sectors are certified with the Mark and credit it for integrating sustainability into core business strategy rather than treated as a standalone initiative. It supports organisations in embedding sustainable practices within leadership decision-making, governance structures, risk management processes and day-to-day operations – thereby building resilience and long-term value. Extending this to SMEs is the next logical step as all businesses seek to decarbonise and operate in a more inclusive way.” 

A Practical Pathway to Certification 

Unlike many sustainability certifications, Mark certification is a guided audit process. It begins with a detailed gap analysis where companies are assessed against the Mark Standard, helping them identify opportunities for improvement and develop a tailored action plan aligned to their business objectives.  

When businesses are ready, they undergo an independent third-party certification audit conducted by the NSAI. This involves an evidence-based assessment of policies, processes and performance. Certification is awarded on a three-year cycle, encouraging organisations to maintain momentum and drive continuous improvement over time.  

Supporting Long-Term Business Growth 

For SMEs navigating growth, evolving regulation and increasing stakeholder expectations, the Business Working Responsibly Mark offers: 

  • A trusted framework to embed ESG without overwhelming resources. 
  • A clear action plan to integrate sustainability into business strategy. 
  • A way to differentiate in the marketplace. 
  • A tool to strengthen governance and manage risk. 
  • A pathway to unlock new business opportunities. 
  • A foundation for long-term, sustainable growth. 

 The certification provides organisations with a recognised way to demonstrate measurable progress and move beyond ambition to tangible impact. 

Businesses interested in learning more about the Business Working Responsibly Mark can visit here.

ENDS   

Media Contact: June Tinsley – Head of Communications BITCI, jtinsley@bitc.ie,  086 7733221  

Notes to the Editor:  

Business in the Community Ireland – Leaders in Sustainability and Social Inclusion. Our purpose is to inspire, challenge and facilitate businesses to bring about a sustainable, low carbon economy and an inclusive society where everyone thrives. We leverage our extensive network and depth of knowledge to guide businesses to embed all aspects of sustainability into their operations. Our programmes and partnerships are designed to bring about measurable improvements in environmental sustainability and social equity.