Age Inclusion: A Strategic Imperative for B Corps

At ProAge, we partner with organisations 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

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 and 750,000 people aged between 50 and 65 are actively seeking employment[2].

At ProAge, we work with organisations 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, showing they truly practise 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 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 programmes signals that your organisation 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. Younger employees, too, are drawn to organisations that demonstrate fairness and inclusion across all demographics.

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 making a meaningful impact in the communities you serve.

Let ProAge help you integrate age inclusion into your strategy. Together, we can ensure your organisation becomes a model for others to follow. Learn more about our work at ProAge.org.

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

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

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