The System Shift

Many organisations are seeking guidance to better align their mission, structure and governance with societal and environmental challenges. In this community of practice, fellow entrepreneurs and experts work together on economist Kate Raworth’s Donut Design for Business model to build future-proof business models that respect people and nature.

Why get involved?

‘Design your business for purpose’ was developed to give Belgian CEOs the insights, skills and resources to put sustainable business models into practice.

    A confidential framework for innovation

    Start from thorough analysis and use a safe, supportive environment to experiment and learn directly from peers how to create value for all your stakeholders.

    Built for the long-term

    Build a resilient organisation with a long-term vision, able to foresee and overcome tomorrow’s crises.

    Inspired by the Donut Economy

    Move within an international frame of reference like the Donut Economy that helps you stay ahead and play a key role in a rapidly evolving ecosystem.

What participants say

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Striking a balance between short-term returns and long-term value for society is a fundamental challenge for many companies. That is why ownership is so important. Without the right structure, there is a risk of falling back on traditional ways of working.

Barbara Goffin
Coordinator
BeDonut

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Ownership should not be reduced to a financial mechanism. It is not about who owns the shares or has voting rights. What matters are the intentions behind those structures and the long-term vision they enable.

Peter Depauw
Co-founder
Steward-Owned

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We feel that our mission has become even more important in the current political context. Democracy, the rule of law and human rights are under pressure worldwide. That makes our work in journalism all the more urgent.

Koen Verwee
CEO
Mediahuis België

Programme

11.03.2025 'Mission' - with Barbara Goffin (Be Donut) This session explores the fundamental purpose of an organisation, its raison d'être. We look at how a mission is embedded in a company's culture, values, operations, products and services.
25.03.2025 'Owned' - with Peter Depauw (Steward Owned) This session explores ownership structures and the stakeholders involved. We discuss the role and expectations of owners and look at approaches which balance profit and positive impact.
17.06.2025 'Finance' - with Thomas Van Craen (Triodos) Here we explore the financial priorities of organisations: what profit margins are needed? How are profits allocated? We also look at returns on investments - financial, social or environmental.
16.09.2025 'Governance' - with Vincent Truyens (Corporate Regeneration) This session analyses governance structures and decision-making power within organisations: who has a say and is represented in these decisions? We discuss inclusive governance models that align with the mission.
18.11.2025 'Networking' - with Vanessa de Marneffe (Ecores) We look at an organisation's networks, from value chains and sales channels to ecosystems of employees, customers and partners. Discover how to increase collective impact through sustainable collaborations.

Impact Stories

At The Shift , we unite changemakers who create sustainable impact. Discover how our members are turning ambition into action with inspiring collaborations and innovations.

Mediahuis: media with a mission

What does purpose really mean for a media group? Belgian CEO Koen Verwee shares how Mediahuis is building trust, independent journalism and long-term impact.

Who is this for?

This community of practice is designed for CEOs with the ambition to help shape tomorrow’s economy by innovating their own business models.

Our prices

€ 1.800
Excluding VAT

For non-members of The Shift

€ 1.500
Excluding VAT

For members of The Shift

Interested?

This cycle has already started and registration is closed. But not to worry! A new edition will start in 2026. Let us know if you’re interested below.

 

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