Our Theory of Change outlines how WBA aims to drive impact and foster meaningful change. It connects our daily activities—such as developing methodologies, creating benchmarks, and engaging with different stakeholders—to shifts in corporate behaviors and practices. To track our progress in transforming systems, we rely on an internal Results Management Framework and case studies. This guides decision-making, supports continuous learning, and ensures ongoing improvement.

Activities and Outputs

WBA develops methodologies, gathers evidence, and evaluates companies across seven system transformations. These efforts generate a range of outputs, including benchmarking scores, actionable insights, coalition-building initiatives and policy advocacy recommendations.

Outcomes

We have identified three key impact pathways: Learning, Pressure and Norm-setting to drive company transformation

Learning impact pathway:
This is the most direct route for companies to improve. WBA’s benchmarks serve as roadmaps for transformation, enabling companies to enhance their sustainability performance through tailored assessments and participation in WBA-facilitated Communities of Practice. While some companies readily embrace change, others require external pressure to act.

Pressure impact pathway:
Corporate accountability hinges on external stakeholders—investors, policymakers, civil society, consumers, and media—applying pressure for change. WBA’s Collective Impact Coalitions bring together multi-stakeholder groups to engage companies on specific issues. By leveraging evidence from its benchmarks, WBA develops targeted stakeholder engagement strategies, ensuring companies receive clear signals, particularly from investors and policymakers. This evidence is shared publicly to support systemic transformation.

Norm-setting impact pathway:
Inspired by UN-led initiatives, WBA contributes to defining baseline expectations for corporate responsibility on critical issues like human rights, climate action, biodiversity, and living wages. WBA collaborates with standard-setting bodies, regulators, and industry groups to articulate business responsibilities. The recent inclusion of corporate accountability in the UN’s Pact for the Future represents a pivotal shift, embedding private sector accountability within global frameworks and paving the way for further advocacy and impact.

Impact

As our ultimate goal we strive to have an impact in improving the lives and environment of people impacted by companies.

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