Startup Your Startup

Purpose Isn’t Just for Big Brands

How Small Businesses Lead on People, Planet, and Profit

Today’s most resilient small businesses aren’t competing on price alone—they’re competing on values.

This interactive conversation explores how values-driven small businesses can stand out in crowded markets, build trust with stakeholders, and grow sustainably—without needing big budgets or big teams. Leading with purpose isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s a smart business strategy.

Why This Matters Now

1. Values are a real competitive advantage
   Small businesses don’t need to outspend larger competitors to win. When integrity, sustainability, and equity are embedded into how you operate and lead, they become powerful differentiators that drive loyalty and long-term growth.
2. Purpose doesn’t have to be complicated
   You don’t need perfect systems or extra capacity to lead with purpose. You’ll learn practical, accessible ways to align your business with the triple bottom line—People, Planet, and Profit—without adding unnecessary complexity.
3. You don’t have to do it alone
   Purpose-driven leadership thrives in community. This session highlights how shared standards, education, and peer support help small businesses turn good intentions into real, measurable impact—while staying profitable and resilient.

What You’ll Learn

- The business case for becoming a triple bottom line company
- How a July 2023 Oregon bill gives certain small businesses an advantage in state contracting
- Why small business leaders are choosing this model—and how it impacts
employees, customers, and communities
- The key differences between a Benefit Company, Benefit Corporation, and a Certified B Corp
- Three compelling numbers that clearly demonstrate the power of doing good and doing well

Who Should Attend

This session is for purpose-driven entrepreneurs, small business owners, and leaders who believe business can—and should—be a force for good.

Event Details

�� Date: Tuesday, February 4, 2025
⏰ Time: 11:30 AM – 12:30 (Pacific)
�� Location: NedSpace, Portland

Meet Your Host: Tom Hering
Tom Hering founded Benefit Corporations for Good (BCFG) to help small, purpose-driven businesses use their values as a competitive advantage—and a force for good. He works with leaders committed to sustainability, equity, and ethical business practices, and who believe profit and purpose belong together.

To date, BCFG has helped 100+ businesses commit to the triple bottom line: People, Planet, and Profit. Through hands-on education, advocacy, and certification, Tom is helping build a community of small businesses that lead with purpose and act with integrity. For Tom, this work is about reimagining what small business can be—and creating meaningful change together.

Event organizer & presenter: Tom Hering, 503-781-5989