How it all started

We’re Jill Poet and Mike Wilson, the founders of ORB. When we started this journey we had one simple, but underrated belief: businesses, no matter how small, have the power to make the world a better place.

We didn’t set out to launch a movement — it grew from something we both felt deeply about. Jill’s career as a management accountant meant working closely with small businesses, while Mike’s background in design and publishing gave him insight into the power of storytelling with purpose. The turning point came in 2008.

Jill attended events on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), expecting to hear ideas relevant to smaller businesses. Instead, the focus was entirely on large corporations. It was clear there was a gap; and we decided to fill it.  

ORB registered as a company

Most of you will remember there was a global financial crisis in 2008. And we were about to launch a new company that needed a business loan. Challenging, to say the least. Most banks were simply not lending – to anyone. Not even an interview. Just a closed door, however hard you pushed. As you would expect, we had a big fat business plan.

Fortunately, our local RBS business manager loved the concept of ORB and put forward our loan application which was approved. Websites built, marketing in place… we were off!

A plan in tatters

Two months after launch, we applied for the first tranche of £10k. Yes, no problem said our business manager. NO WAY said the faceless machine at Head Office. No turnover. But our business plan said…. we appealed. NO WAY. Our business manager was probably as devasted as we were. But what to do?

Our business plan was in tatters. If we ever meet, I’ll happily tell you the story of how we were just seconds away from giving up. But I believe a little bit of divine intervention took place! Neither of us are religious, but I’m sure someone was looking down on us and was not going to let us give up so easily. Quite rightly, of course. We had an important job to do.

Marching onwards

Despite the rather deflated financial position we found ourselves in just after launch, around that same time there was an increased emphasis from the government on encouraging and enabling SMEs to bid for public sector contracts.

We had always considered launching some form of certification – not as a requirement for membership but as a separate opportunity for any small business. It seemed the perfect time to complete the plans that were lurking in the background and provide SMEs with an alternative to the often cumbersome and inappropriate ISO options.

Working with Anglia Ruskin University and several associates, we launched the Responsible Business Standard, a full on-site auditable certification specifically designed for SMEs. There was an appetite for an online version so we listened and launched it…

Executive Summary ORB-ARU.pdf

Anglia Ruskin Full Validation Report.pdf

A new decade, a different vibe

In the 2010s, many small businesses didn’t understand what “responsible business” meant—some thought it began and ended with recycling! But we always knew it could be so much more.  

Over the years, the world has caught up. Issues like mental health in the workplace, social value, and the climate crisis are beginning to take centre stage, and we’re proud to have been part of that conversation from the early stages of awareness. ORB became a Community Interest Company formalising our commitment to putting people and purpose at the heart of what we do.  

A special year

2022 was a significant milestone for us. Jill Poet and Mike Wilson, our founders, decided to gift ORB to its members, creating a company limited by guarantee. This step ensures ORB’s mission is safeguarded for the future, protected by a bespoke set of Articles of Association.

What we founded will always help small businesses make meaningful changes that benefit their communities, employees, and the environment. We’ve seen firsthand the difference responsible businesses can make. The movement is only growing but our vision has room for more.

We wish to see thriving towns and villages where local businesses are at the heart of the community. We support businesses that treat people well, care for the planet, and encourage them that it’s possible to turn a profit in return.  

A blueprint for responsible business

Another special year ensued. Jill Poet published her small business bible, It Really Is Just Good Business, quickly becoming a must-have read. Spotting a gap in the market for a jargon-free, humorous take on responsible business, she created a practical roadmap packed with case studies from her years of advising entrepreneurs and business owners. The ORB Team and our Directors are proud to recommend it as an essential companion for anyone striving to build a purpose-driven business. Available on Amazon, it’s also gifted to new members when they join!

Facing forward

Times are tight with the cost of living crisis, and time is always precious, so everything we offer is tailored to fit into the reality of running a small business. Here’s how we help businesses navigate an uncertain future.  

Membership Join our community of like-minded businesses where we uplift each other’s work towards a better future.  

Certification. The Responsible Business Standard helps your business stand out and showcase your commitment to responsible values.

Courses. Learn at your own pace with our online Responsible Business and Social Value course or take the facilitated option so you don’t go it alone.