Instigate emerges as a trailblazer in the marketing agency landscape, situated at the vibrant intersection of Atlanta's civil-rights history and contemporary urban development. Founded by Richard Leslie and supported by Prometheus Ventures, the agency stands out for its unconventional approach to client relationships and business strategy. Notable clients in Instigate's portfolio include PROOF Hard Ice Cream, Fifth Group Restaurants, Bulrush Gin, Envision Construction, Envision Restoration, and Enspire Hospitality Group.
Richard Leslie, serving as President, heads a distinguished leadership team featuring Avi Reddy as CEO, Julie Adams as Managing Director, Andrew Crane as Executive Creative Director, and Tony Bagnulo as Vice President of Trade Marketing. Together, they steer Instigate's mission to deliver compelling creative solutions, effective experiential campaigns, and maximum engagement that drive rapid and exponential business growth.
The agency's business model diverges from traditional fee-based structures by embracing performance- and equity-based compensation. This approach not only grants Instigate autonomy in crafting impactful campaigns but also fosters deeper partnerships with clients. By investing resources and services in exchange for equity stakes in client businesses, Instigate aligns its success with that of its clients, reinforcing a shared commitment to growth and innovation.
Richard Leslie elaborates on their strategic philosophy: "Our approach echoes the DIY ethos of the punk rock movement, emphasizing leverage to catalyze change. We leverage cultural insights to shape environments, products, and services that influence consumer behavior and affinity."
Instigate's ethos blends venture capital principles with cultural innovation, a cocktail aimed at reshaping agency-client dynamics. This unique blend positions Instigate not only as a service provider but as a strategic partner invested in driving transformative outcomes for its clients. The agency's commitment to cultural understanding and impactful creativity underscores its role in shaping the future of marketing in Atlanta and beyond.
Instigate's impact extends beyond conventional marketing realms, embodying a spirit akin to the Sandinista movement's revolutionary zeal. Their method challenges competitors to adapt or risk obsolescence while inviting clients to embrace a partnership model that promises shared victories and mutual growth. This ethos is encapsulated in their bold approach and reflected in their client success stories and industry accolades.
As Instigate continues to carve its niche in the competitive agency landscape, its blend of innovation, equity-driven partnerships, and cultural resonance sets a precedent for future agency models. By redefining success metrics and embracing risk-sharing strategies, Instigate not only amplifies client outcomes but also reshapes the narrative of agency-client collaboration in the modern marketing era.
