The Fair Start Movement Certification is an impartial, standards-based program that empowers organizations to transform their values into measurable action for equity and climate resilience. Grounded in the principle that every child deserves a fair start in life, the certification sets transparent, achievable benchmarks for nonprofits, educational institutions, and mission-driven organizations that want to make a tangible difference in families’ lives and the health of our planet.
At its core, the program recognizes that inequality at birth, environmental degradation, and gaps in family planning support are interconnected challenges. The certification helps organizations address these issues head-on by establishing clear practices in four key areas: governance and accountability, reparative investment, workforce and family benefits, and environmental stewardship.
Organizations progress through three levels of certification, each representing a deeper commitment and broader impact.
Basic certification affirms an organization’s foundational policies and commitments.
Standard certification demonstrates measurable progress through verified practices, staff training, and reporting of equity and climate metrics.
Premium certification recognizes leaders who implement comprehensive reparations strategies, supply-chain requirements, and undergo rigorous audits.
This tiered approach makes the certification accessible to organizations of different sizes and capacities, while ensuring that progress is meaningful and transparent.
Organizations undergo a structured process that includes self-assessments, documentation reviews, audits, and ongoing reporting. Clear criteria ensure fairness and consistency, while periodic renewals and corrective action policies guarantee accountability over time.
Becoming certified sends a powerful message: that your organization is committed to reducing inequality at birth, mitigating climate-related harms, and creating healthier, more sustainable communities. Certification also provides direct benefits, including:
Credibility and trust with funders, partners, and stakeholders.
Practical support, such as policy templates, implementation toolkits, and advisory services tailored to each tier.
Read more about Fair Start Certification.