The skills and creative flair of neurodiverse talent have come together in the launch of a new creative agency, The Ability Machine, a for-profit creative studio produces work for brands and agencies, powered by neurodiverse talent. The Ability Machine is founded by longtime ad industry creative and voice-over artist, Tom Woodard, best known for his work as one of the Budweiser frogs.
The agency builds on the mission of On the Avenue by creating real employment opportunities for On the Avenue Citizens, turning creativity into both purpose and pay cheque.
Woodard has led On the Avenue for the last two years, a non-profit he founded to serve as a community where neurodiverse individuals (referred to as Citizens) of all abilities come together to explore creative passions and find joy in their daily journey. Since opening its doors, the non-profit has served over 150 families.
The Ability Machine, based in Nashville, Tennessee, will offer graphic design services for special projects, iIllustration, music, strategy and concepting, video, and audio, including podcasts and voice work. Through previous one-off partnerships, On the Avenue Citizens have delivered creative work for brands such as Mercedes, Logan’s Roadhouse, and KIND Bar and Nashville organisations like Battle Ground Academy. These early projects serve as proof of concept for the creative output now being formalised under The Ability Machine’s banner.
Outside his legendary Budweiser Frogs work, Music City native, Tom Woodard, has also made his mark as a creative collaborator and writer of famous jingles. The Ability Machine is officially live today with a new website and is open for partnerships and work effective immediately.
The Ability Machine’s launch was developed in partnership with local businesses – Lewis, a full-service marketing agency that delivers business growth at pivotal moments for companies; its development partner, Ally, a full-service accessibility compliance company; and Raven Public Relations, who helped shape the studio’s narrative and go-to-market strategy.
“We built The Ability Machine to do one thing, make space for neurodiverse creativity to shine,” stated Tom Woodard. “We’re officially open for business and ready to collaborate with agencies and brands who believe, like we do, that the best ideas come from different kinds of minds.”
“We have a unique opportunity to advance something truly impactful and life-changing for neurodiverse individuals,” added Ellen Faulkner, CEO of Lewis. “It’s been an honour to support the launch of The Ability Machine, and we see this as just the beginning of amplifying its mission in Nashville and across the country.”
