23 senior researchers from 9 ENGAGE.EU partner universities met at WU Vienna to explore the role of purpose in organisations and society. Over the course of five days, academics engaged in discussions, collaborations and insightful keynotes and exchange with industry experts, all aimed at advancing research on this important topic.
Setting the stage
The event kicked off on Monday, March 3, with a welcome from the academic host, WU professor Wendy Chapple, followed by keynote speeches from professors Günter Stahl and Christof Miska— all from the Institute for Responsibility and Sustainability in Global Business—setting the stage for the exploration of purpose-driven research. A crucial discussion followed: What do we mean by purpose? Participants then formed working groups to develop project ideas and identify gaps in existing research. The day concluded with a tour of the Vienna city centre, including UNIDO, and a welcome dinner to foster connections among participants.
Deepening the conversation
As the week progressed, participants focused on framing their research questions and refining their project designs. One of the highlights was the keynote by professor Rodolphe Durand (HEC Paris), who shared cutting-edge insights on purpose-driven organisations. Expert presentations enriched the discussions, with Gerda Holzinger-Burgstaller (CEO, ERSTE Bank) and Jutta Löffler (CEO, Vienna Urban Innovation / City of Vienna) providing real-world perspectives on the implementation of purpose in business and governance.
Collaboration and Research Encounters
Wednesday saw intensive group work, refining research designs and discussing extended abstracts, methodologies, and potential contributions. In the evening, within the WU Research Encounters on Purpose, Think Tank participants exchanged with WU colleagues who too work on the topic of purpose.
Finalising Outcomes and Next Steps
As the Think Tank drew to a close on Friday, 7 March, participants outlined the next steps for their projects, with support from the WU Innovation Office. A farewell by Professor Wendy Chapple marked the end of the event, leaving participants with a clearer vision for advancing their research.
Impact and Future Directions
The Think Tank provided a unique platform for interdisciplinary collaboration on purpose-driven research. Participants left with structured research agendas, valuable expert feedback, and strengthened networks.
