From its humble beginnings above a shawarma shop, Benevity has experienced remarkable growth and recognition. In 2010, it became one of Canada’s first certified B Corporations, underscoring its commitment to social and environmental responsibility. This dedication has been a driving force behind its evolution.

The company’s rapid ascent is reflected in its accolades. Ranked as the third-fastest-growing startup in Canada by Deloitte in 2016, Benevity continued its trajectory, securing a place among the top 10 in 2017. Such recognition is a testament to its innovative approach and unwavering focus on delivering value to its clients.

Benevity’s innovative solutions have attracted an impressive roster of clients, including industry giants such as Nike, Coca-Cola, Microsoft, Google, and Apple. With about 250 of the Fortune 1000 companies utilizing its services, Benevity has established itself as an indispensable partner in the realm of corporate social responsibility.

In December 2020, Benevity achieved unicorn status—a significant milestone in the tech world—when Hg Capital acquired a majority stake in the company for US$1.1 billion. This landmark valuation not only reflects Benevity’s financial success but also underscores the growing importance of corporate social responsibility on a global scale.

Headquartered in Calgary’s vibrant Bridgeland district, Benevity has expanded its presence across North America and beyond. With offices in Victoria, Toronto, San Mateo, Geneva, and Barcelona, the company’s reach extends far beyond its Canadian roots. This global footprint allows Benevity to serve a diverse clientele while staying attuned to regional nuances in Philanthropy and Corporate Culture.

As Benevity continues to innovate and grow, its impact on corporate social responsibility cannot be overstated. By empowering businesses to make a meaningful difference in their communities, the company is not only driving positive change but also redefining the role of corporations in society. In an increasingly interconnected world, Benevity stands as a shining example of how technology can be harnessed for the greater good.

In the realm of corporate social responsibility (CSR), few voices resonate as strongly as Sona Khosla’s. As the Chief Impact Officer at Benevity, she brings over 15 years of experience working with mission-driven organizations to the forefront of discussions surrounding impact, inclusion, and purpose. Khosla joined us on The Caring Economy to discuss her multifaceted role that spans from spearheading Benevity Impact Labs—a social innovation hub—to hosting the company’s podcast, Speaking of Purpose, where she engages with top leaders focused on using business as a force for good.

One of the pivotal aspects Khosla discusses is the growing importance of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). These groups, embraced by 92% of CSR leaders, serve as vital avenues for fostering a sense of belonging and connection within companies. She highlights how ERGs empower employees, enabling them to feel they are part of something larger than themselves. This sense of community, she emphasizes, not only enhances productivity and team cohesion but also contributes to the company’s bottom line.

Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are voluntary, employee-led groups within companies that bring together individuals who share a common identity or experience. This could be based on factors like gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or even shared interests. ERGs foster a sense of belonging, provide professional development opportunities, and champion diversity and inclusion within the organization.

Key benefits of ERGs:

• Increased employee engagement and morale: ERGs create a safe space for employees to connect, share experiences, and build relationships with colleagues who understand their unique perspectives. This can lead to increased feelings of belonging, job satisfaction, and engagement.
• Enhanced diversity and inclusion: ERGs provide valuable insights and perspectives to company leadership, helping to create a more inclusive work environment for all employees. They also play a crucial role in attracting and retaining diverse talent.
• Professional development: ERGs offer opportunities for members to develop their leadership skills, network with mentors, and participate in professional development workshops and events.
• Community outreach and social impact: ERGs often organize volunteer activities and fundraising events, allowing employees to give back to their communities and make a positive impact.

Different types of ERGs:

• Identity-based ERGs: These groups focus on specific identities like LGBTQ+, women, veterans, or people of color.
• Experience-based ERGs: These groups focus on shared experiences like working parents, caregivers, or individuals with disabilities.
• Network-based ERGs: These groups connect employees who share similar interests or hobbies outside of work.

Overall, ERGs play a vital role in promoting diversity, inclusion, and employee engagement within organizations. By offering a platform for community building, professional development, and social impact, ERGs create a more positive and enriching work environment for everyone.

The Influence of CSR

In today’s polarized landscape, organizations often face the challenge of navigating purpose amidst potential backlashes. Khosla delves into the dichotomy of courage versus caution, illustrating how companies can authentically engage with societal issues without alienating stakeholders. She underscores the importance of continuous learning and consciousness-raising within organizations, as 60% of employees believe in a company’s role in facilitating growth and positive impact.

Highlighting the dynamic nature of CSR, Khosla emphasizes that it is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. While 93% of CSR leaders advocate for companies to act as unifying forces for humanity, she stresses the importance of aligning CSR initiatives with the organization’s unique mission. Sona encourages companies to find their “North Star” positioning, guiding their investments in causes that resonate authentically with their values.

Central to the conversation is Benevity’s role in transforming businesses through its innovative solutions. Khosla elucidates how Benevity offers unique capabilities, such as access to 2 billion nonprofits and robust support systems. Citing Benevity’s impact, she notes that 84% of clients surveyed affirm the company’s instrumental role in driving positive change—a testament to the transformative power of investing in the right CSR technology.

Lastly, Khosla underscores the link between strong CSR programs and employee retention. With well-being and purpose emerging as key drivers in the workplace, she reveals that companies engaging employees in meaningful initiatives witness a significant reduction in turnover. By cultivating a purpose-driven employer brand and experience, Khosla contends that companies can not only enhance business outcomes but also foster a culture of goodwill and impact.

In the dynamic landscape of CSR, Sona Khosla’s insights offer invaluable guidance for organizations seeking to navigate purpose, community, and impact in an ever-evolving world. As Benevity continues to spearhead innovation in CSR technology, her vision for a more inclusive and purpose-driven future remains steadfast.

Whether it’s a company like Benevity, or a compassionate individual like Sona Khosla, we all have the potential to create a positive ripple effect and brighter future. Together we can collectively catalyze positive change on a global scale.