What is Steward-Ownership and Purpose Schweiz?
Purpose Schweiz is the Swiss go-to hub for all things Steward-Ownership (or Verantwortungseigentum in German). It’s a fresh alternative to the usual ownership models, designed to lock in a company’s independence and value-driven mission right into its DNA — the ownership itself. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, founder, or investor, Purpose Schweiz offers guidance and support to help companies embrace this innovative structure, including assistance with financing. The core idea? Companies commit to two big principles: self-determination, where voting rights stay with active entrepreneurs, and asset binding, meaning profits serve a purpose rather than being the ultimate goal.
Main Benefits and Key Figures of the Purpose Network
Steward-Ownership isn’t just a concept — it’s a movement gaining real traction. Here’s a snapshot of the Purpose Network’s impact:
- €250 million invested capital
- 100 companies onboard
- Over 100 entrepreneurs actively involved
These numbers highlight a growing community of businesses and leaders committed to long-term meaning over short-term profit. It’s about building companies that last — for generations, really — and that contribute positively to society.
How Steward-Ownership Supports a Responsible Economy
Steward-Ownership pioneers worldwide have crafted various legal frameworks to embed responsibility ownership into companies for the long haul. These trailblazers have developed innovative ways to anchor the two core principles — self-determination and asset binding — ensuring companies remain independent and value-driven. It’s a shift that’s not just legal but cultural, encouraging businesses to think beyond profits and focus on their societal role.
Consulting, Knowledge, and Resources Offered
Purpose Schweiz doesn’t just talk the talk. They walk alongside companies through personalized consulting, helping them navigate the structural and cultural shifts needed to adopt Steward-Ownership. Plus, they share a wealth of knowledge — background info, practical examples, and open-source guides — all designed to make the transition smoother. These resources include model statutes and entrepreneurial guides that serve as handy orientation tools for anyone interested in responsibility ownership.
The Team and Community Behind Purpose Schweiz
The team at Purpose Schweiz is driven by a shared vision: societal change through sustainable business practices. They prefer to collaborate with like-minded people and organizations who share their ambition. This collective spirit extends to their advisory board, ambassadors, and partners, all experts and enthusiasts in the Steward-Ownership space, bringing valuable insights and spreading the word.
Project Impact: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Linked to Purpose Schweiz
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Partners, Affiliates, and the Broader Ecosystem
Purpose Schweiz is backed by a strong network of partners and affiliates, including the Migros Pioneer Fund, which supports sustainable solutions with a hefty annual budget of around 15 million francs. The fund combines financial support with active risk management, reflecting a deep commitment to systemic change. Affiliates range from environmental groups like Öbu to innovation hubs like Female Founders and legal experts such as Purposelawyers.ch. This diverse ecosystem strengthens the movement, creating a vibrant community dedicated to responsibility ownership and sustainable business practices.
