Every step counts when taken with purpose. For Salesforce Run, that story is about turning movement into meaning. What began as a post-pandemic idea to bring people together for wellbeing and purpose has grown into a South Asia-wide movement uniting employees, families, customers, partners and the Trailblazer Community.
To delve into the story behind this flagship initiative, we spoke with Sanket Atal, Managing Director – South Asia Operations and Technology, Salesforce about what fuels Salesforce Run, its evolution over the years, and why this year’s edition is set to be its most impactful yet.
Q1. This is the 4th edition of Salesforce Run in India. Can you take us back to where it all began? What was the vision behind launching it?
Salesforce Run began with a simple question: How could we bring people together not just for fitness, but for a greater purpose? In 2022, with people beginning to gather and collaborate again, we created a space where they could reconnect, recharge and feel part of something bigger.
That moment presented an opportunity to channel the collective energy of our workforce towards driving social change. The vision was clear: to build a platform that promotes wellbeing while contributing to something meaningful, and in the process, create a positive and lasting impact on the communities around us.
Q2. This initiative supports nonprofits in child education and sustainability. How do you choose the focus areas each year, and what kind of partnerships have been key?
Our efforts are aligned with Salesforce’s broader 1-1-1 model, which commits 1% of our equity, product, and employee time to nonprofit organisations. The focus areas are chosen by listening closely to the needs of the communities we serve and to the passions of our people. Education and nature & sustainability have consistently emerged as priorities because they align with our long-term vision and values, particularly our commitment to Sustainability. In 2024, Salesforce Run brought together 5,800 runners across five cities, covering 449,000 kilometres, contributing 71,000 volunteer hours, and raising INR 2 Crores. The funds are enabling 10,000 high school girls to explore career opportunities with the Antarang Foundation and supporting the planting of 40,000 saplings in Hyderabad’s new biodiversity park with Green Yatra.
This year, the scope expands further to include entrepreneurship and the AI access gap, with purpose-led partnerships helping turn the collective energy of our community into meaningful, long-term impact.
Running for impact is about more than crossing the finish line; it’s about making every step count. Recognising that every action, no matter how small, can make a difference, it’s about directing your efforts towards a purpose.
Sanket Atal, Managing Director – South Asia Operations and Technology, Salesforce
Q3. From a few hundred runners to over 5,800 participants last year, how has the event evolved in scale, meaning, and impact over the years?
The numbers tell one part of the story, but the true transformation lies in what Salesforce Run has come to represent. Each year, the event takes on new meaning as more people see it not simply as a race but as a way to connect with a cause. It has become a tradition people look forward to, bringing communities together to run, to support one another, and to give back. 2025 will also mark our first step towards expanding the experience beyond India’s borders.
Q4. Beyond fundraising, how has the Run shaped our internal culture and customer engagement? What feedback have you received from participants?
The most powerful shift has been in mindset and in how we see ourselves as an organisation. Internally, Salesforce Run has become a rallying point, a shared purpose that transcends roles, designations, and teams. Everyone trains together, cheers for one another, and celebrates the journey as much as the outcome.
This sense of community has also strengthened our customer and partner relationships. Externally, the Run has become a bridge that connects us in a deeply human way through shared values. Many participants have told us it’s the first time a corporate initiative has made them feel truly connected to a cause.
Q5. And finally, what does “running for impact” mean to you? What’s the one thing you hope every participant takes away from this experience?
Running for impact is about more than crossing the finish line; it’s about making every step count. Recognising that every action, no matter how small, can make a difference, it’s about directing your efforts towards a purpose. I hope every participant walks away feeling part of something bigger and knowing their run has positively impacted someone’s life.
Q6. What are you most looking forward to experiencing during this year’s Run?
What excites me most this year is the energy that is already building. There’s more buzz than ever before, and people aren’t just signing up; they’re bringing their plus-ones.
We’ve introduced a brand new city and planned exciting new run-day activities across all locations. Personally, I’m looking forward to reliving the moments on the track, experiencing the collective determination and excitement, meeting first-time runners and their families, and so much more.
