
2026 Purpose Predictions
Leaders from Big Brothers Big Sisters, ESPN, Newman’s Own Foundation and WSJ Leadership Institute forecast how AI, funding shifts, and workplace changes will reshape social impact in 2026 – with human connection at the core.

Leaders from Big Brothers Big Sisters, ESPN, Newman’s Own Foundation and WSJ Leadership Institute forecast how AI, funding shifts, and workplace changes will reshape social impact in 2026 – with human connection at the core.
Business is an unlikely hero: a force for good working to solve society’s most pressing challenges, while boosting bottom line. This is social purpose at work. And it’s a dynamic journey.
Purpose 360 is a masterclass in unlocking the potential of social purpose to ignite business and social impact. We illuminate the growing impacts of purpose, from engaging employees and fostering deeper consumer loyalty to inspiring product innovation and increasing market share.

Leaders from Big Brothers Big Sisters, ESPN, Newman’s Own Foundation and WSJ Leadership Institute forecast how AI, funding shifts, and workplace changes will reshape social impact in 2026 – with human connection at the core.

Can coaching truly change an organization? Scott Osman of 100 Coaches shares how strategic coaching turns leadership challenges into breakthroughs that ripple across teams and culture.

Nike’s Vanessa Garcia-Brito reveals how their “Coach the Dream” initiative transforms youth athletics through trained, culturally aware coaches, focusing on girls’ participation and more.

Goodvertising’s Thomas Kolster speaks about how brands can navigate this increasingly complex landscape and how purpose has evolved from a differentiator to a crowded and sometimes performative space.

New research reveals purpose-driven companies see 36% higher market value. Impact ROI’s Steve Rochlin shares data proving social impact boosts profits, and outlines key strategies to align purpose with performance.

Apollo Global Management’s Lauren Coape-Arnold speaks about how the Apollo Opportunity Foundation built a model that puts employees at the very heart of the company’s philanthropy.

Revisiting a landmark conversation with former Unilever CEO Paul Polman on how companies can drive systemic change through sustainability while outperforming competitors and creating lasting impact.

JUST Capital CEO Martin Whittaker explores how companies can ethically navigate AI’s opportunities and risks, sharing insights on responsible development and stakeholder-driven governance.

Action Against Hunger’s Eric Bebernitz brings a powerful perspective on what it takes to fight hunger in the most difficult contexts around the world.

A historic wave of post-pandemic small businesses faces steep survival challenges, especially in rural areas. Mastercard’s Jonathan Fantini-Porter joins us to reveal paths to success.

ACCP’s Andrea Wood chats about the current and future state of CSR, unpacking key findings from their Annual CSR Insights Report and reminding how they help CSR leaders chart their course.

Ford Philanthropy’s Mary Culler shares how her team is redefining what corporate giving looks like, tackling one of the greatest barriers to equity: access.