For decades, the value of a company was measured almost exclusively by its financial results. Today, however, we are driving a profound change: value is now understood as a combination of business performance and social and environmental impact.
The purpose-driven economy emerges precisely to redefine this equation. It’s not about replacing economic profit, but about enriching it with new dimensions of value—creating a virtuous circle where businesses, society, and the planet benefit simultaneously.
Three ways to create value in the purpose-driven economy
1. Value for employees
It’s not just about customers, but also about employees and communities. Companies with a clear purpose invest in their teams’ wellbeing, professional growth, and health—reducing turnover and increasing productivity.
Relevant fact: According to a 2023 Deloitte study, organizations highly committed to purpose report 20% higher talent retention and a 12% increase in productivity compared to companies without a defined purpose.
2. Value for shareholders
Purpose drives innovation and opens new business niches. Companies that focus on solving real problems create products and services better aligned with current and emerging needs.
Relevant fact: According to a 2024 Accenture report, purpose-driven companies report 33% higher commercial innovation and an average financial return 5% above their industry peers.
3. Social and environmental impact in the purpose-driven economy
The purpose-driven economy goes beyond financial gains—it aims to generate real value for society and the planet. This means placing two inseparable pillars at the center:
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Social impact: contributing to greater social justice by reducing inequalities, promoting inclusion, and ensuring opportunities for all. In this model, business success is not only measured by financial statements but also by a company’s ability to improve the lives of the communities it touches.
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Environmental impact: going beyond harm reduction toward environmental regeneration. The purpose-driven economy understands that mitigation is not enough—we must build business models that restore ecosystems, promote responsible resource use, and foster resilience to climate challenges.
This dual focus—social and environmental—turns purpose into a driver of systemic transformation. It’s not about adding a layer of responsibility, but about redesigning how we understand business value, linking it to collective wellbeing and the planet’s future.
The value paradox: purpose and profitability are not opposites
What’s fascinating about the purpose-driven economy is that when a company focuses on creating value beyond itself, it also strengthens its financial performance. The logic is simple: greater trust, stronger loyalty, more relevant innovation, and more engaged talent lead to better economic results.
From competition to co-creation of value
The purpose-driven economy invites us to move beyond pure competition and toward co-creation of value with partners, clients, and society. Companies that understand this logic not only gain market share—they gain legitimacy, resilience, and long-term sustainability.
The purpose-driven economy redefines the notion of business success. Today, value is built along two dimensions simultaneously: economic and social. Companies that adopt this mindset not only survive—they thrive, generate real impact, and build a sustainable legacy.
Moreover, the purpose-driven economy is capturing the attention of major European and U.S. universities, which are researching its impact and developing specific programs on purpose-driven leadership, sustainability, and shared value creation. International forums and business awards increasingly recognize companies that implement responsible business models. However, to fully realize its transformative potential, it is essential to bring these discussions into public debate and political agendas—promoting policies and regulatory frameworks that incentivize the integrated creation of social, environmental, and economic value.