Experiencing Purpose at The Columbus Partnership's ED411

When listening to the keynotes at the Columbus Region’s ED411—where civic and business leaders come together to talk about economic security and growth—I noticed something about all the speakers. They were leaders of organizations like the Columbus Partnership, JobsOhio, and The Ohio State University.

What stood out was their focus. They were obsessed with their missions, and there was real depth behind the purpose. They spoke fluently about how well they were doing, where they were falling short, and what they could do better. They were comfortable addressing critics. Nothing felt rehearsed or superficial.

Then I noticed something else: I wanted to help them.I found myself thinking about my own network in technology—who I could connect them with, how I could help facilitate conversations about growing businesses in Ohio. In my own work, I help companies train their employees on AI, and I started asking where that might meaningfully support their missions.

That reaction surprised me.

I did some research afterward and found that the data backs this up: it’s purpose plus clarity that correlates with higher returns. Returns matter, of course—they’re measurable and objective. But what struck me more was the positive contagion that purpose creates. It builds community. It pulls people in. It makes others want to contribute.

I’ve heard the phrase “purpose-aligned” many times, but it often felt forced or performative. After this experience, it clicked for me. Purpose in an organization is like exercise for the human body. It’s not flashy. It doesn’t work overnight. But there is no substitute for it.

It may be the most powerful—and underappreciated—performance lever organizations have.

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