Celebrating Ability. Empowering Possibility.
Abilities Rising is a constellation of ventures that share joy by what people with differing abilities can do—through business, storytelling, advocacy, and inclusion.
Abilities Rising is a purpose-driven enterprise that empowers people with differing abilities through business, employment, storytelling, and joy. Founded by John and Mark X. Cronin, we believe inclusion isn't charity — it's good business.
Spreading hope and joy by showing what people with differing abilities can do.
"We believe that everyone deserves the chance to shine."
A father-son dream that grew into a national movement — and a powerful proof of what's possible when you believe in people.
"This isn't the end – it's the foundation."
I have Down syndrome. Down syndrome never holds me back.
Hiring people with differing abilities is not altruism. It's good business.
At Abilities Rising, we don't just highlight ability — we invest in it. We believe that when people are given the chance, they don't just participate — they lead.
Abilities Rising is more than a brand — it's a movement built on five interconnected pillars, each creating opportunity and driving impact.
Helping families build inclusive ventures and assisting businesses in creating employment for people with differing abilities.
Creating meaningful employment through joyful, mission-led businesses in the mode of John's Crazy Socks.
Raising awareness, influencing policy, and shifting perspectives through powerful stories and actionable insights.
Creating platforms for people with differing abilities to make their voices heard including publishing and podcasts.
Exploring new ways to rethink inclusion — from digital platforms to social franchising and scalable systems.
By turning personal stories into platforms, we've become leaders in the mission for a more inclusive world.
We don't just run businesses — we help others start their own. Our coaching programs guide families in building ventures with and for individuals with differing abilities.
Our publishing arm exists to elevate the stories, perspectives, and talents of people with differing abilities, because representation matters.
We are starting with speaking, coaching and publishing. But there is more on the horizon:
An Online Gift Store Featuring Products Made by People with Differing Abilities
Services for other businesses that solve their needs (kitting and assembly, scanning, etc.) while employing people with differing abilities.
Helping businesses that want to employ people with differing abilities.
Providing podcasting services so people with differing abilities can make their voices heard.
John and Mark X. Cronin are the father-son co-founders of John's Crazy Socks and Abilities Rising. Together, they're spreading happiness and redefining inclusion through joyful business, storytelling, and entrepreneurship.
John Cronin is an award-winning entrepreneur, inspiring public speaker, and passionate advocate for people with differing abilities. Born with Down syndrome, John created his own path by co-founding John's Crazy Socks with his father, Mark.
The first person with Down syndrome to receive the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award, John has shared his story with audiences around the world, including the United Nations, the U.S. Congress, and Fortune 500 companies.
Mark X. Cronin is a purpose-driven entrepreneur, author, and strategist known for building impactful ventures at the intersection of business and social change. With a Master's in Public Policy from Harvard, Mark has led large-scale systems change.
A two-time TEDx speaker and EY Entrepreneur of the Year, Mark delivers keynotes for Fortune 500 firms, universities, and social change organizations.
Built on purpose, inclusion, and joy, this movement invites business leaders, parents, and advocates to be part of meaningful change. Book a talk, partner with us, sponsor a campaign, or share our story. Let's rise together.