2026 Purpose Predictions

Purpose 360 convenes leading voices in social impact, business, and philanthropy at the start of every year and asks them to share their predictions for what lies ahead. As we enter 2026, purpose leaders are navigating rapid advances in AI, growing pressure on social sector funding, shifting workforce expectations, and a renewed focus on culture, leadership, and human connection. Together, these experts offer perspectives on how purpose-driven work is evolving and what it will require next.This year, we invited Artis Stevens, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America; Kevin Martinez, Vice President of Corporate Citizenship at ESPN; Alexandra Amouyel, President and CEO of Newman’s Own Foundation; and Alan Murray, Founding President of the Wall Street Journal Leadership Institute and former CEO of Fortune Media, to share their predictions for 2026. Drawing on backgrounds that span nonprofits, philanthropy, corporate leadership, and media, they explore both the opportunities and tensions shaping the future of purpose.Listen for insights on:AI as a powerful opportunity and a critical responsibilityWhy human connection, leadership, and values matter more than everThe growing need for focus, clarity, and authentic activation of purpose inside organizationsPractical advice for early- and mid-career professionalsResources + Links:Artis Stevens’ LinkedInArtis Stevens’ Purpose 360 EpisodeKevin Martinez’s LinkedInKevin Martinez’s Purpose 360 EpisodeAlexandra Amouyel’s LinkedInAlexandra Amouyel’s Purpose 360 EpisodeAlan Murray’s LinkedInAlan Murray’s Purpose 360 Episode (Part 1)Alan Murray’s Purpose 360 Episode (Part 2) (00:00) - Welcome to Purpose 360 (02:35) - Artis Stevens from Big Brothers Big Sisters (03:29) - BBBS’s Purpose (04:22) - 2026 Predictions re: Function and Activations of Purpose (06:05) - Opportunities (07:25) - Advice for Young People (09:03) - The Future of Purpose 2026 (10:12) - Kevin Martinez from ESPN (10:26) - ESPN’s Purpose (10:44) - Take Back Sports Initiative (11:32) - Purpose in 2026 (13:49) - Barriers and Challenges (14:45) - Discuss, Debate, Decide, Align (15:33) - Advice for Young People (17:10) - Mental Health (19:32) - Alex Amouyel from Newman's Own (19:56) - Newman’s Own Purpose (21:07) - Purpose in 2026 (24:23) - Advice for Young People (26:52) - Hit the Ground Running (27:56) - Alan Murray from The Wall Street Journal Leadership Institute (28:25) - Alan’s Title (29:29) - What CEOs Are Saying (31:22) - Humanizing Factors (32:23) - Purpose’s Evolution (33:54) - Opportunities (34:29) - Challenges (35:33) - Advice for Young People (37:15) - Exciting Time (37:56) - Wrap Up