Date of Graduation
5-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Degree Level
Undergraduate
Department
Finance
Advisor/Mentor
Contreras, Rogelio Garcia
Abstract
This thesis presents a comparative analysis of the Community Reinvestment (CRA) and the B Corp Certification through the B-Impact Assessment (BIA). The CRA was enacted in 1977 and is a mandatory regulatory measure aimed at addressing discriminatory lending practices and encouraging equitable credit distribution in underserved communities. In contrast, the BIA is a voluntary assessment developed by the nonprofit B Lab to evaluate a company’s social, environmental and governance practices, which lead to B Corp Certification. This analysis explores the historical background, mission, methodology, success metrics and financial costs associated with each framework. Ultimately, this thesis highlights how both models, despite their differences in origin and application, contribute meaningfully to fostering responsible corporate behavior and community development.
Keywords
Community Reinvestment Act; B Impact Assessment; Corporate Social Responsibility; Community Development
Citation
Claborn, E. G. (2025). Comparative Analysis of the Community Reinvestment Act and the B Impact Assessment. Finance Undergraduate Honors Theses Retrieved from https://scholarworks.uark.edu/finnuht/141