Jamii Coffee is Now a Certified B Corp

Published on 16 May 2025 at 10:27

Jamii Coffee is now a Certified B Corp — Because impact is in our DNA

We’re thrilled to share that Jamii Coffee is now officially a Certified B Corporation, joining a global movement of over 8,000 businesses using their platforms to build a more inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy.

But for us, this isn’t a pivot. It’s a powerful affirmation of what we've always believed: coffee trade should uplift everyone it touches.

Rooted in Heritage, Built on Purpose

Jamii Coffee is a small, family-owned importing company based in Oregon, proudly grounded in our Kenyan heritage. From the beginning, our mission has been clear - create a coffee supply chain that centers people, not profit.

We source directly from smallholder farmers and cooperatives in Kenya, building long-term relationships based on transparency, trust, and shared value. Our vertically integrated model and “Coffee Belongs to the Farmer” trade philosophy ensure that farmers - not middlemen - remain at the heart of the value chain.

Roasters receive traceable, high-quality coffees. Farmers receive better prices and the ability to reinvest in their families and land.

What B Corp Certification Means to Us

Becoming a Certified B Corp is more than a label - it’s a validation of our purpose and a celebration of our values.

B Corps meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. For Jamii, this certification affirms our commitment to:

Fair and direct trade practices
Environmental sustainability across the supply chain
Economic empowerment for Kenyan coffee growers
Transparency in how we operate

In a world where words like “ethical” and “sustainable” are often unverified claims, B Corp status provides third-party credibility. It tells our partners, roasters, and customers that we walk the talk.

What Is a Certified B Corporation?

Certified B Corporations are companies that use business as a force for good. They commit to creating value for all stakeholders - not just shareholders - including workers, customers, suppliers, community, and the environment.

To become certified, companies undergo a thorough assessment administered by B Lab, the nonprofit that oversees the B Corp movement. This isn’t a rubber stamp—it’s a rigorous review of business practices, governance, community impact, and environmental responsibility.

How Does a Company Become B Corp Certified?

The process of certification involves:

B Impact Assessment (BIA): A detailed evaluation of the company’s operations, impact, and governance.
Risk Review & Verification: Includes documentation, stakeholder engagement, interviews, and sometimes site visits.
Minimum Score of 80: A company must reach or exceed 80 points to qualify.
B Corp Agreement: Once verified, companies sign a legal agreement aligning their business practices with B Corp values.
Ongoing Recertification: Every three years, companies must recertify to ensure standards are still being met.

Why This Matters

The global coffee trade has long been stacked against smallholder farmers. With climate change, price volatility, and exploitative intermediaries, it’s often a losing game for those at the origin.

At Jamii Coffee, we are committed to doing things differently. Our B Corp Certification is a milestone—but more importantly, it’s a promise to continue building a system where Kenyan farmers thrive, roasters prosper, and coffee lovers can trust the impact behind every cup.

Thank you for believing in better. Thank you for being part of this journey.