A Call to be the Founders of the Nation Yet to be Realized I just returned from the B Corp Champions Retreat in Milwaukee. The theme was “Ripples to Waves”, elevating small actions in each of us to drive a collective, lasting impact. Spending five days with over 600 purpose-driven business leaders from around the world gives me hope and inspiration that this is our moment to build the nation of our founding. We are reminded every day that the current design does not create a just and fair society for ALL to reach their full potential. Nearly a quarter of the nation is trapped or on the edge of poverty. The opening keynote given by Dr. Michael McAfee, President & CEO of PolicyLink laid out the leadership needed in this moment to be nation-builders for ALL. This moment requires a different form of leadership with these capacities: Foresight: The belief in a thriving multiracial democracy that benefits from an equitable economy Radical Imagination: Expand the boundaries of creativity to deliver these results Audacity: Set a bold vision of the future and seek the collective ability to achieve it Humility: Embrace the power of the whole is stronger than the power of one Love: People and planet equally, and their interdependence Self-renewal: Lean into what brings you energy and let go of what no longer serves you The B Corp movement has been on a mission for 20 years, mobilizing business to create an economic system that benefits people and the planet. The “Built for All” partnership between PolicyLink and B Lab will strengthen this work of collective action through a common language and a clear roadmap. These leadership capacities were embodied by one of B Lab’s co-founders, Andrew Kassoy, who tragically died of illness in 2025. The community honored Andrew during the retreat. There is no better way to honor his legacy than for each B Corp leader to commit to the Built for All roadmap. Andrew Kassoy | Tribute | A Life Worth Living | B Lab – YouTube In a time when so many people are careless, and so many people lack moral courage, it’s up to us to double down on care and courage. And that’s a hell of a lot easier, and a hell of a lot more powerful, if we do it together. – Andrew Kassoy In alignment with Andrew’s vision, this is the call of our generation, as business leaders committed to both people and the planet. It is a time to double down on care and courage in building the nation that has yet to be realized, together. Join us as founders of a future that has not yet existed, a nation that delivers on the promise for all of its people to thrive. It will take the full force of our public, private, and civic resources to realize this future. To get started, visit the B Lab Collective Action website and the PolicyLink website for more information on what role you can play.
