In 2000, the Institute obtained separate charitable status; its charitable article being "to advance public education in business ethics and related subjects with particular reference to the study and application of ethical standards in the management and conduct of industry and business generally in the United Kingdom and elsewhere".

Since its founding 25 years ago, the IBE has published over 50 books on business ethics topics; conducted surveys on the use of codes of ethics within companies; developed training programmes in business ethics, from induction programmes to the board room; worked with academics and business schools to promote the study of business ethics within MBA and business studies courses; and offered advice and support to business ethics practitioners and their companies. The IBE also holds events under the Chatham House Rule so that ethical issues which organisations commonly face may be discussed, and this has helped drive the work programme of the Institute.