The American Sustainable Business Network's monthly newsletter highlighting news on policy, business, capital, and more. 


** MAKING AN IMPACT
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ASBN is committed to working with and alongside our network to develop and elevate the policy solutions needed for inclusive and long-lasting systems change.

Thank you all for your part in advancing our mission.


** IN THIS ISSUE
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* TAKE NOTE & TAKE ACTION
* NEWS & STORIES
* MEMBER REQUESTS & OPPORTUNITIES
* BECOME A NEW MEMBER
* JOB POSTINGS
* GROWING GRASS UPDATES
* WORKING GROUPS
* INVESTORS CIRCLE CORNER



** TAKE NOTE & TAKE ACTION
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** Take Note
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We have a new Executive Director!
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We are thrilled to introduce you to our new Executive Director, Camilla Taylor ([link removed]) !

Camilla brings a wealth of relevant experience as a seasoned global executive running mission-driven networks worldwide. Her career has centered on the advancement of the stakeholder economy through various roles over the past 15 years, including running B Lab Global ([link removed]) operations, the nonprofit entity that owns B Corp Certification ([link removed]) . Camilla also served as Managing Director of FinTech Aera, a Dutch think tank focused on financial inclusion through technological advances, among other roles.

Originally from Maryland, Camilla says she has “always been passionate in advocating for climate justice as it relates to the disproportionate effect on minority communities” and that “the vision of ASBN is one that I have spent the better part of my career driving forward through global policy reform, impact programming, and narrative architecting. Many of ASBN's current members are individuals with whom I have robust relationships through my work at B Lab.”

“This is a magnificent day for ASBN,” said David Levine, President and Co-Founder of ASBN. “Camilla Taylor is a champion of sustainable business and brands and has a proven track record of implementing programs to advance sustainable business and a just economy. I look forward to working closely with Camilla, and I am certain that with her leadership, ASBN will continue to have profound and measurable impact and success for years to come.”

Watch Camilla’s introduction below:
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Please join us in welcoming Camilla to ASBN! Leave a comment on one of our social media posts and view the press release ([link removed]) to see what others are saying!

A Big Thank You to Nancy Green!

With our transition to Camilla’s leadership, we give thanks to Nancy Green ([link removed]) , ASBN’s Interim Executive Director, who successfully led us through the last year. With Nancy’s leadership we were able to continue building upon the success of the past to bring us to a place of stability and preparedness for this next exciting phase. Nancy is working closely with Camilla this week to pass the baton, and we wish her continued success in her next venture!

The American Sustainable Business Council’s ([link removed]) suit challenging SB 13 continues to garner media interest. See the latest highlights (now pulled from over 60 articles!):

1. Forbes | Culture Wars And Unconstitutional Laws: The Threat To America's Future ([link removed]) , Oct 1, 2024
2. Houston Chronicle |Lawmakers score political points with anti-ESG laws. Taxpayers, teachers pick up the tab ([link removed]) , Sept 30, 2024
3. Pensions and Investments | Texas state senator applauds lawsuit challenging comptroller's investment blacklist ([link removed]) , Sept 19, 2024
4. The New Republic |ESG Investors Are Going to War ([link removed]) , Sept 5, 2024
5. Politico |ESG flames live on ([link removed]) , Sept 3, 2024
6. NY Times |Business Group Sues Texas Officials Over Law That Shields The Oil Industry ([link removed]) , Sept 1, 2024

ICYMI, view the Complaint ([link removed]) , see the Press Release ([link removed]) and updates ([link removed]) .


** Take Action
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Exciting news! In September, 139 businesses—including many ASBN members—came together to send a powerful message to the U.S. House of Representatives in support of the Bristol Bay Protection Act!

Now, it’s YOUR turn to make a difference! Join us in urging your elected officials to advance crucial protections for this precious ecosystem. Sign the petition today at [link removed] and let your voice be heard! Every signature counts!

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, ASBN and our regional partners, the North Carolina Sustainable Business Council ([link removed]) (NCSBC), are concerned about the widespread effects this storm has had on communities, businesses, and the environment in western North Carolina. Our hearts go out to the residents and businesses that have faced unprecedented challenges.

ICYMI, we shared this list of resources recommended by our regional partners across ASBN’s social media ([link removed]) this week, if you are in a position to help, please consider donating.

Don’t miss out on the latest news! Join us by following ASBN across social media. Like and share some of our recent posts to voice your concerns and show your support for a more just and sustainable economy! It’s never been more important to stand together. We hope to see you there!
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** NEWS & STORIES
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** Meet the New Members of ASBC and ASBN’s Boards!
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Last month, we highlighted a few of ASBN and ASBC’s newest board members. We are so excited to share a bit about a few more of these incredible leaders with you:

Vicki Lee Parker-High, ASBN Board Member

Vicki Lee Parker-High is the Executive Director of the North Carolina Sustainable Business Council (NCSBC), a regional partner of ASBN and an NC statewide organization that aims to help business leaders become a force for good and build a vibrant economy that benefits all people. Before joining NCSBC, Vicki served as the Communications and Development Director at the Carolina Small Business Development Fund, where she helped secure over $11 million in funding to provide loans to hundreds of small businesses in underutilized markets across North Carolina. Additionally, Vicki has worked as a business writer for publications such as the News & Observer, the Wall Street Journal, and Black Enterprise Magazine. She specializes in strategic business planning and program funding development. Vicki holds a Master of Business Administration from Meredith College in Raleigh and a bachelor’s degree in journalism from American University in Washington, D.C.

Gay Browne, ASBN Board Member

Gay Browne is the Founder of Greenopia ([link removed]) , a sustainable living app that makes eco-friendly

choices easier for busy people. Inspired by her health challenges and passion for sustainability, Gay created Greenopia as a trusted source for verified green businesses and products. The platform focuses on product health, business sustainability, social equity, and community engagement. With a background in advertising and public relations, Gay also advocates for sustainable innovation, serving on various boards, including Waterkeeper Alliance and Ford

Motor Company's Sustainability Council. She has received multiple awards for her

environmental work and continues to inspire change through her writing, public speaking, and

leadership. Gay is also the author of Living With A Green Heart ([link removed]) and graduated from Harvard’s

ALI Cohort Class 2015. She has three adult children and one grandson.

OJ Semans Sr., ASBN Board Member

OJ Semans Sr. is an enrolled member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe ([link removed]) , the Co-Executive Director of Four Directions ([link removed]) , a Native-led tribal voter advocacy organization, and the Executive Director of the Coalition of Large Tribes ([link removed]) (COLT). COLT is a federally chartered corporation consisting of 13 tribes across the 10 states of Arizona, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, North Dakota, South Dakota, Washington State, Wyoming, and Utah. OJ’s objective is to work with Tribes and their entities to improve economic and social conditions and to identify and remove barriers that restrict equal access in local, state, and federal elections, empowering Tribes with the means for increased visibility. In addition, OJ holds a Doctor of Humane Letters from Clairmont Graduate University.

Michael H. Shuman, ASBC Board Member

Michael H. Shuman ([link removed]) is an economist, attorney, author, and entrepreneur, and a leading visionary on community economics. He is an Adjunct Professor at Bard Business School in New York City. He is also a Senior Researcher for Council Fire ([link removed]) , where he performs economic-development analyses for states, local governments, and businesses around North America. He publishes a weekly newsletter on local investment called The Main Street Journal ([link removed]) that reaches 8,000 readers. Shuman is credited with being one of the architects of the 2012 JOBS Act and dozens of state laws overhauling securities regulation of crowdfunding. He has authored, coauthored, or edited 10 books. His two most recent books are Put Your Money Where Your Life Is: How to Invest Locally Using Solo 401ks and Self-Directed IRAs ([link removed]) and The Local Economy
Solution: How Innovative, Self-Financing Pollinator Enterprises Can Grow Jobs and Prosperity ([link removed]) . A prolific speaker, Shuman has given an average of more than one talk per week, mostly to local governments and universities, for the past 30 years in nearly every U.S. state and more than a dozen countries.


** Members honored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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On September 24th, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognized 43 winners of the Safer Choice Partner of the Year award, representing 20 states and the District of Columbia. Among the awardees were three members of the American Sustainable Business Council: ECOS ([link removed]) , Case Medical ([link removed]) , and Seventh Generation ([link removed]) .

Please join us in sending congratulations to these ASBC members!


** Co-coordinator of ASBI’s Catalyzing Community Well-Being Initiative, Dr. Christina Clamp, Appeared on Everything Co-op and Inducted into the Cooperative Hall of Fame
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Dr. Christina Clamp ([link removed]) , co-coordinator of ASBI’s Catalyzing Community Well-Being Initiative, has been a prominent figure in the cooperative movement for over 40 years, contributing significantly through research, education, and advocacy. Her work spans various sectors, including worker and shared-services cooperatives, where she has engaged in pioneering research. Additionally, she has played a critical role in educating future generations of cooperators and linking cooperatives with larger movements. Her career demonstrates a persistent commitment to advancing the cooperative model.
* Listen to Christina discussing her cooperative journey on SoundCloud ([link removed]) .
* Christina Clamp, Inductee into the Cooperative Hall of Fame, reflects on her Journey within the Cooperative Movement - Everything Co-op Podcast & Radio Show ([link removed])


** ASBC Member Awarded for CEH Day!
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Barry A. Cik, Founder and Technical Director of ASBC Member Naturepedic to be Honored at Children’s Environmental Health Network (CEHN) In-Person Awards Celebration in Washington, DC: October 10, 5pm ET at La Vie in the DC Wharf

If you're in DC, join CEHN for a festive evening soiree that will be full of community building, food, dancing, and inspiration! This soiree is designed to honor the 2024 child health champions while encouraging cross-pollination and collaboration within the field, especially for early-career professionals, students, and youth. Join CEHN to celebrate the leaders driving systemic change for children's environmental health, including ASBC member Naturepedic’s Founder and Technical Director, Barry A. Cik! As part of the broader commemoration of Children’s Environmental Health Day ([link removed]) , these events will highlight the importance of equity, action, and community in addressing the challenges facing children’s health today.


** Good News for DEI, ESG and Impact Investing
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In September, we learned that the yearlong lawsuit against the Fearless Fund ([link removed]) ’s Strivers Grant Contest for Black women entrepreneurs officially came to a close via a settlement with the plaintiffs that is beneficial for the Fearless Fund and justice and sustainability investors broadly. The case has been dismissed “with prejudice,” meaning it cannot be filed again and there are no direct implications for any organization or investor outside of the Fearless Fund’s Strivers Grant Contest. Legal representatives for justice and sustainability investors believe the final resolution of this case creates no legal precedent that might limit DEI, ESG, or impact investors from pursuing racial justice and equity.


** ASBN IN The News
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* Co-Founder of Seventh Generation and Leader in Corporate Responsibility Inspires Sustainable Innovation MBA Students ([link removed]) - Jeffrey Hollender discussed “The Future of Responsible Business” with one-year accelerated MBA students at the UVM Grossman School of Business | University of Vermont, Sept 17, 2024
* Uptick in PFAS scrutiny reveals patchy global rule book ([link removed]) | Sustainable Views, Sept 5, 2024
* Resilience Is Now a KPI in Our Tumultuous World ([link removed]) | Sustainable Brands, Sept 5, 2024

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HAVE AN UPDATE YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE WITH THE ASBN COMMUNITY?
CONTACT SHANTI HOLLOWAY (mailto:[email protected]?subject=NEW%20MEMBERSHIP&body=null) , DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP SUCCESS, TO BE INCLUDED IN OUR NEXT NEWSLETTER.


** MEMBER REQUESTS & OPPORTUNITIES
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** ASBC Member Alliance for Tribal Clean Energy Petition Request
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On August 9, 2024, ASBC the Alliance for Tribal Clean Energy ([link removed]) (ATCE) took a significant step for the benefit of tribes by submitting a formal request to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission ([link removed]) . Their Petition for Rulemaking aims to address barriers hindering tribal energy development under FERC Order No. 2023. The petition urges FERC to review the process of how tribal energy projects connect to the electric grid. Specifically, they are advocating for Tribal Nations to be exempt from certain financial requirements, such as the initial commercial readiness deposits (which were intended to keep speculative projects from clogging up the queue) and a portion of withdrawal penalties. These exemptions are essential as tribal interconnection requests are not speculative, and tribal nations often face insurmountable financial challenges when developing
energy projects. ATCE is petitioning FERC to initiate a new rulemaking proceeding. This process will reassess the impact of financial requirements on tribal nations, including the commercial readiness deposit and withdrawal penalty framework. The comment period is now open. If your tribe or organization wishes to provide input, they have templates to make the process simple. Reach out via email at [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) . Sign the petition here ([link removed]) .


** ASBC Member Business Legacy Fund: Apply Now!
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Are you a retiring business owner seeking to secure your legacy and protect jobs? The Business Legacy Fund (BLF) is now accepting applications for its next cohort! BLF helps you transition your company to employee ownership, ensuring a fair-market value sale, tax advantages, and long-term stability.

In this 3-month program, you’ll explore if worker ownership is right for your business, evaluate potential structures, and identify the operational changes needed for success. You’ll also receive a business valuation opinion and priority access to BLF capital for selling to employees. Apply by November 15 ([link removed]) to be considered! Visit their website to learn more ([link removed]) .


** ASBC Members Tern Strategies and Stepping Stone Partners Survey Request
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Are you involved in investing in community development financial institutions aka CDFIs? ASBC members Tern Strategies and Stepping Stone Partners want to hear from you! Their research goal is to understand the scale and scope of CDFI investment note offerings in the US. By participating in their survey, you contribute to elevating these vital community investing options that bring capital to main streets across the country. Their research is supported by The Center for Impact Finance at the UNH Carsey School of Public Policy and the Citi Foundation's Impact Fund. Share your insights here. ([link removed])


** BECOME A NEW MEMBER
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** Do you know of an aligned business that should join ASBC?
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WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR BUSINESS TO BE FEATURED HERE AND REACH THOUSANDS OF ALIGNED BUSINESSES AND CONSUMERS? REACH OUT TO SHANTI HOLLOWAY (mailto:[email protected]) , DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP SUCCESS, TO JOIN ASBN AS A MEMBER.


** JOB POSTINGS
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The Green Bank for Rural America ([link removed]) , a nonprofit subsidiary of Appalachian Community Capital, seeks visionary and strategic C-Suite leadership to accelerate financing for new energy investments in targeted rural communities, helping to diversify local economies and create opportunities for a prosperous future. Open position announcements include: Chief Investment Officer ([link removed]) , Chief Financial Officer ([link removed]) , and Chief Risk and Compliance Officer ([link removed]) .


** GROWING GRASS UPDATES
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In conjunction with Other Half Processing, the American Sustainable Business Institute is the grantee and administrative home of the Growing GRASS project. Growing GRASS ([link removed]) is a five-year, $35 million project funded by the USDA Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities grant program, dedicated to improving the beef and buffalo byproduct supply chain. Contact Anna Straus (mailto:[email protected]) .

(Pictured top: The Growing GRASS admin team. Front row: Tara Ritter, Anna Straus, David Levine. Back row: Anna Claussen, Jim Kleinschmit, Mark Kleinschmit, D Laninga, Gwen Steel. Pictured bottom left: The team visits a regenerative cattle ranch in the Tom Miner Basin. Bottom right: Strategic planning sessions are extremely fun with a mountain view — and a team like this one!)

In September, the Growing GRASS admin team met up in Montana for an on-site, in-person, multi-day convening to conduct deep strategic work and relationship investment. Over five days in the Bozeman and Livingston areas, they met with regional supply chain partners, including regenerative ranchers and the owner of a slaughterhouse and processing facility. They also spent time developing the strategy and direction for the project’s next phases. The team is working to ensure that all partners and stakeholders have a voice in their processes and are moving forward with intention as they prepare to launch the screening survey for regenerative producers, engage with brand partners in various industries, and widen their network of slaughterhouses and processing facilities.


** WORKING GROUPS
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ASBN’s Working Groups and Task Forces allow members to shape and engage in policy work organized around significant issue areas and specific campaigns. Contact Shanti Holloway (mailto:[email protected]) , Director of Membership Success, to learn about working groups and other membership benefits.
* ASBN-BizNGO Chemicals Policy
We engage in public policy initiatives for safer chemicals and sustainable materials.
* Business for Democracy
Believes that a strong democracy is essential for a vibrant entrepreneurial economy. Business for Democracy Collaboratives have been established in eight states to raise the voice of small businesses to protect democracy.
* Circular Economy
Emphasizes recycling, reuse, sharing, repair, and remanufacturing, and the reduction of waste, pollution, and carbon emissions throughout the economy; meets the third Wednesday of each month.
* Clean Water is Good For Business
The Clean Water is Good For Business: Delaware River Watershed Steering Committee works with businesses based in the Delaware River watershed to advocate for cleaner water.
* Climate and Energy
Identifies key problems, solutions, and strategies to address our planet's climate and energy crisis.
* Livable Planet Working Group
Dedicated to the shared mission of protecting and renewing life on planet Earth. LPWG is a place for learning, collaborating, and amplifying the good work happening in the world.
* Pennsylvania Sustainable Business Network
The Pennsylvania Sustainable Business Network (PASBN) is dedicated to promoting sustainable economic development and environmental stewardship across the state. We serve as a collaborative platform for businesses, nonprofits, and communities committed to creating a resilient and equitable economy.
* Regenerative Agriculture and Justice
Working with farmers and other agricultural stakeholders, we advocate for sustainable agriculture, environmental justice, and support for underserved and BIPOC farmers.


** INVESTORS CIRCLE CORNER
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** Investors Circle News
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Investors Circle ([link removed]) (IC) has an over 30-year legacy connecting angels and other investors with early-stage and for-profit companies generating positive impact and meaningful financial returns - fostering a community where profit meets purpose.

We are excited for 2024 fall. After just a few months being independent, we are pleased with the great relationship with ASBN, many like-minded impact-focused groups, and expanding our circle of friends.

IC’s Memberships, Sponsorships and Donations ([link removed]) signups are active online! We encourage the ASBN family to share IC's community -- investor-members who have deployed $275+ million in more than 350 companies. Join our community to participate, providing time, treasure and talent in service to businesses for good.

All upcoming events are posted online ([link removed]) . Contact [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) to attend or for any questions.

October:
* San Francisco Bay Area (In-Person) Join either:
+ Tues, Oct. 8 | Lunch 12-1:45 pm PT | Palo Alto
+ Tues, Oct. 8 | Happy Hour 5-7:30 pm PT | Oakland (BART-friendly)
* NYC (In-Person): Impact Investing and Social Entrepreneurship Morning for the High Net Worth and Family Office Community. Hosted by: Fordham University's Family Stewardship Council/Responsible Business Center.
+ Fri, Oct. 11 | Breakfast 8-11 am ET
+ Space is limited. Please register early.
+ Events RSVPs are required via the IC website ([link removed]) .
* National Monthly Virtual Meeting: The focus this month is on the good health sector, with expert speakers and pitches from early-stage opportunities.
+ Thurs, Oct. 17 | 12-2 pm ET
+ Contact [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) for the invite.

(IC Rooftop Gathering @ NYC Climate Week last week of Sept, 2024)

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If so, please contact [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]?subject=Interested%20in%20ASBN%20Membership&body=) so we can move your email address so you can receive the members-only newsletter with more exclusive content and opportunities instead!
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