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Defining Business with a Sense of Purpose

Defining Business with a Sense of Purpose

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3M is working to improve lives through purpose-driven business; learn more, get inspired, and make connections at their panel and Expo booth at the 2017 Net Impact Conference, October 26-28 in Atlanta, GA.

Imagine a world where every life is improved—where natural resources are reliably available, people have access to education and opportunity, and communities are safe, healthy, connected and thriving.

For some people, achieving this world may present insurmountable problems that leave them shaking their heads. But for others, these are challenges waiting to be tackled – they know that with creativity, collaboration and a shared sense of purpose, no problem is unsolvable.

This kind of solutions-based mindset has given rise to countless 3M products and practices. Like a household sponge made from 100 percent plant-based fibers, including agave fibers that otherwise would have been discarded as waste in the tequila-making process. To roofing granules that reflect the sunlight and heat other shingles absorb, reducing the urban heat island effect and lowering energy consumption. Or an under-sink water system, capable of 99.3 percent lead reduction in water; a compelling potential solution for the clean water crisis in Flint, Michigan, such that the 3M team behind the system fast tracked the product launch and partnered with local agencies and non-profits to donate systems to residents in Flint. 

We can’t get enough of innovative ideas. So we provide opportunities to do purposeful work because doing so not only contributes to a better world, it is just good business.  We encourage 3Mers to dedicate 15% time for personal ideas in pursuit of innovation. We support volunteerism and investments in our communities. And this year, we’re thrilled to have the opportunity at the 2017 Net Impact Conference to share our new skills-based community engagement program that empowers 3Mers to do what they do best – make an impact.

What is a skills-based community engagement program all about?

Through our global program, 3M Impact, employees travel to an under-served community around the world and partner with a local non-governmental organization (NGO) to address a challenge related to Sustainability. No matter the location, whatever the challenge, the 3Mers who participate will share their expertise to help make a difference.

What can we say? We’re proud of our people and can’t wait to share them with the world.

It’s about making things happen – on purpose

It’s undeniable. Powerful things happen when people work together to achieve a shared purpose. At 3M, we are 90,000 employees connected by a single ambition: improving every life. 

That’s our purpose, and we’d love to hear yours. Stop by our expo booth to explore your purpose and share ideas for #improvinglives.

And if you’re interested in creating a skills-based pro-bono program to make an impact, check out our panel on Friday, October 27 at 10:50AM.