What is On Purpose?
On Purpose is all about tackling one of the biggest challenges of our time: shifting the economy from chasing profit to embracing purpose. This project runs leadership programmes designed to develop people who are ready to play a key role in this transformation. It’s a community that helps individuals find work that truly matters—work they care about deeply. As Tom Rippin, the Founder and CEO, puts it, “We believe in putting purpose before profit… only by doing this will we have a chance of solving society’s most difficult problems.” Together, participants learn to envision a different future and take real action within the organisations they work in, creating a vibrant network of people who inspire, challenge, and support each other along the way.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
On Purpose offers a unique leadership journey with tangible benefits and impressive impact:
- Nearly 500 leaders of transformative change developed since 2009
- Supported over 500 purpose-driven organisations
- Year-long Associate Programme featuring two paid, purpose-driven work placements
- Weekly training sessions and regular one-on-one coaching and mentoring
- A thriving community that continues to challenge and support its members
- Recognised with awards like Escape the City Top 100 Winner (2023) and Kate Raworth Doughnut Economics Award (2019)
The Associate Programme: Growing Purpose-Driven Leaders
The heart of On Purpose lies in its Associate Programme. This year-long leadership experience is designed to equip people with the skills and mindset needed to transform the economy by changing the organisations they work in. Associates get hands-on experience through two paid placements focused on purpose-driven work, alongside weekly training and personalised coaching. It’s not just about learning; it’s about joining a community that keeps growing, challenging, and supporting each other as they push for real change. The programme is a launchpad for those who want to make a difference and help shift the economy towards something better.
Vision and Mission: A New Economy for All
On Purpose envisions a world where the economy works for everyone and respects the planet’s limits. This means moving away from the current profit-first mindset to an economy rooted in purpose—one that serves the wellbeing of all, now and forever. The mission is clear: to nurture leaders who can transform their organisations and, by extension, the economy itself. On Purpose acts as a home for these leaders, fostering a community that develops, challenges, and sustains itself and others to bring about this much-needed shift.
Core Values That Drive the Movement
The project stands on a foundation of values that shape everything it does:
- Choose optimism: Believing in a better future and that everyone has a role to play.
- Learn together: Welcoming diversity and embracing collective learning.
- Step up: Taking action for the greater good.
- Engage head and heart: Proud problem solvers who also care deeply.
- Act with integrity: Walking the talk and owning responsibilities.
On Purpose’s Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – fostering meaningful employment and leadership
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – promoting an economy that works for all
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – encouraging sustainable business practices
- SDG 13: Climate Action – supporting organisations that operate within planetary boundaries
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – building a community that collaborates for systemic change
Recognitions and Industry Standing
On Purpose is a standout in the social enterprise space, boasting a strong B Corp score of 80.3, which reflects its commitment to social and environmental performance. It’s been recognised multiple times, including making the Escape the City Top 100 in 2023 and NatWest SE100’s top 100 social enterprises in 2021. These accolades highlight its role as a leader in the “business for good” movement, especially in the Other Personal Services industry. With a focus on leadership and scale, On Purpose continues to inspire and empower change-makers who want to build a better economy—one that’s truly built on purpose.
