Subtitle
Audible Social Impact Report
Foreword
By harnessing the transformative power of storytelling and imagination, we are committed to catalyzing a more just and equitable society.
from our Global Head of Urban Innovation
Across Audible, our teams also bring an extraordinary depth of skill and experience that strengthens our programs and our partnerships with communities.
As a pioneer in the audio storytelling industry, Audible has continually reimagined how people connect with stories, creating immersive experiences that transport listeners and enrich their daily lives. As the Global Head of Urban Innovation, I am proud that this same spirit of innovation guides our approach to social impact. From our earliest days, we have believed that a company should stand for more than what it does.
As a pioneer in the audio storytelling industry, Audible has continually reimagined how people connect with stories, creating immersive experiences that transport listeners and enrich their daily lives. As the Global Head of Urban Innovation, I am proud that this same spirit of innovation guides our approach to social impact. From our earliest days, we have believed that a company should stand for more than what it does.
It is a powerful combination that allows us to bring a global vision to life at local levels in a way that is unique to Audible. We send our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed their time, expertise, and ideas.
Our mission is focused on increasing access and opportunities for underrepresented voices through action, and is delivered through three key pillars: Imagination Fuel, Imagination Next, and Imagination Thrive.
Through this work we unlock new narratives of collective prosperity for emerging creators and young people across the global communities that we call home as well as in our HQ community of Newark, NJ, USA. Turning imagination into action is only possible because of passionate people. We are grateful to collaborate with visionary organizations and changemakers who are deeply rooted in their communities, offering unmatched knowledge and insight that brings our mission to life.
While this report highlights what we collectively accomplished in 2025, we also look forward to the future – to how we can continue to listen, learn and grow alongside our communities to unlock a more equitable and just future. We believe stories and imagination truly can transform lives, and we are honored to invite you on this journey with us. To reflect on how far we have come, and to explore the opportunities that lie ahead. Together let’s create innovative solutions that create greater prosperity for all, and bring our shared vision to life.
Through this work we unlock new narratives of collective prosperity for emerging creators and young people across the global communities that we call home as well as in our HQ community of Newark, NJ, USA. Turning imagination into action is only possible because of passionate people. We are grateful to collaborate with visionary organizations and changemakers who are deeply rooted in their communities, offering unmatched knowledge and insight that brings our mission to life.
Through this work we unlock new narratives of collective prosperity for emerging creators and young people across the global communities that we call home as well as in our HQ community of Newark, NJ, USA. Turning imagination into action is only possible because of passionate people. We are grateful to collaborate with visionary organizations and changemakers who are deeply rooted in their communities, offering unmatched knowledge and insight that brings our mission to life.
Aisha Glover,
Through this work we unlock new narratives of collective prosperity for emerging creators and young people across the global communities that we call home as well as in our HQ community of Newark, NJ, USA. Turning imagination into action is only possible because of passionate people. We are grateful to collaborate with visionary organizations and changemakers who are deeply rooted in their communities, offering unmatched knowledge and insight that brings our mission to life.
Aisha Glover,
Global Head of Urban Innovation,
Audible
Subtitle
Audible Social Impact Report
Our 2025 Story
This report shares our progress in 2025, with a specific focus on two
of our pillars – supporting emerging creators through Imagination Fuel,
and developing opportunities for young people though Imagination
Next. It also shines a spotlight on our Activate Caring principle, and the
unique contribution of our employees to creating positive change.
2025 snapshot
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2025 snapshot
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Who we are
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Imagination Next
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Imagination Fuel
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Activate Caring
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Looking forward
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Subtitle
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Who We Are
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
An introduction to Audible
You may know Audible as the leading creator and provider of premium audio storytelling. Reaching audiences in more than 180 countries and across 50 languages we create immersive, cinematic experiences that transport our listeners to new worlds. Since inventing an entirely new media category in 1995, we continue to dream into the future in everything we do. From pioneering new technologies to developing original programming, we innovate boldly, inventing on behalf of our customers and creating what’s next before they ask. Entrepreneurial spirit continues to serve as the guiding principle when it comes to social impact. In 2007 we moved our headquarters to Newark to accelerate the renaissance of a great American city, and in 2020 we launched the Global Center for Urban Innovation. Acting as a global lead for our local approach, we continue to align and advance our innovative efforts to create positive, lasting change across the marketplaces we serve worldwide.
You may know Audible as the leading creator and provider of premium audio storytelling. Reaching audiences in more than 180 countries and across 50 languages we create immersive, cinematic experiences that transport our listeners to new worlds. Since inventing an entirely new media category in 1995, we continue to dream into the future in everything we do. From pioneering new technologies to developing original programming, we innovate boldly, inventing on behalf of our customers and creating what’s next before they ask. Entrepreneurial spirit continues to serve as the guiding principle when it comes to social impact. In 2007 we moved our headquarters to Newark to accelerate the renaissance of a great American city, and in 2020 we launched the Global Center for Urban Innovation. Acting as a global lead for our local approach, we continue to align and advance our innovative efforts to create positive, lasting change across the marketplaces we serve worldwide.
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Our Purpose
Our distinctive approach
Our distinctive approach
Our distinctive approach
We believe in the transformative power of stories and imagination.
By leveraging our unique capabilities, we approach social impact in a way that is distinctly Audible.
How we deliver
Imagination Next
Imagination Next
Our Vision
We invest in the next generation through initiatives that increase opportunities for youth.
People
A world where the transformative power of stories and imagination catalyzes a more equitable and just society.
We elevate the quality of our programs by engaging our employees and sharing their expertise
Imagination Fuel
Imagination Fuel
What we do
We increase access and opportunities for underrepresented voices to unlock new narratives of collective prosperity.
We champion emerging storytellers around the world, providing the fuel they need to kickstart their careers.
Product
We unlock unique value and opportunity through our platform and catalogue of titles
Imagination Thrive
Imagination Thrive
We foster a thriving neighborhood in our headquarters city of Newark through innovation and economic development.
Position
Our size and global footprint brings the power to influence and be standard bearer for what companies can be, beyond what they do
Aisha Glover,
Subtitle
Audible Social Impact Report
Imagination Next
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
$3.3 million invested
$3.3 million invested
$3.3 million invested
$3.3 million invested
The Audible Difference
“This program gave me more than a platform. It gave me permission to believe in my voice. Thank you for creating a space where stories like mine could not only exist. But be honoured, nurtured, and heard.” Future Stories Fund participant, UK
Year in Review
Our programs sparked imagination and catalyzed change across 12 countries and 5 continents.
In 2025 we were proud to consolidate and expand our programming, bringing positive impact to communities through the combined expertise of our employees and delivery partners.
$3.3 million invested
$3.3 million invested
$3.3 million invested
“This program gave me more than a platform. It gave me permission to believe in my voice. Thank you for creating a space where stories like mine could not only exist. But be honoured, nurtured, and heard.” Future Stories Fund participant, UK
$3.3 million invested
$3.3 million invested
$3.3 million invested
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Imagination Next
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Our work, and why it matters
There is no more important investment than in the next generation. Young people today represent the storytellers, innovators and leaders of tomorrow. That’s why we work to nurture their potential, focusing specifically on educational innovations that, empower marginalized youth to imagine new possibilities for themselves and their communities.
Our impact
Our outcomes
Our activities
The challenge
Our impact
We build real-world opportunities, creating pathways from imagination through to practical skills application and career networking and exploration.
We develop young imaginations through storytelling, increasing access to culturally relevant content and creating programs and platforms for underrepresented young people to share their stories.
Underrepresented young people become empowered storytellers, innovators, and leaders who use their imagination and skills to create more equitable narratives and solutions in their communities and beyond, ultimately contributing to a more just society where diverse voices shape our collective future.
Underrepresented young people become empowered storytellers, innovators, and leaders who use their imagination and skills to create more equitable narratives and solutions in their communities and beyond, ultimately contributing to a more just society where diverse voices shape our collective future.
Their sense of agency and self-advocacy grows, as does their awareness of potential career possibilities.
Young people have an increased sense of confidence, and a greater ability to express themselves through enhanced literacy and communication skills.
The current education and youth development landscape often undervalues imagination and storytelling as critical skills for personal and professional development.
The current education and youth development landscape often undervalues imagination and storytelling as critical skills for personal and professional development.
Young people from underrepresented communities face systemic barriers that limit their access to opportunities and their ability to envision and create equitable futures.
Young people from underrepresented communities face systemic barriers that limit their access to opportunities and their ability to envision and create equitable futures.
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity. You believed in voices that often go unheard, and gave us the space to rise. I’ll never forget that. I shared my writing publicly. I am so proud of myself. And because of all of you, it won’t be the last time. This is the beginning.”
- Participant, Caporeira for All, Future Stories Fund Grantee
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
What we achieved in 2025
“One of our pupils, normally a quiet and reserved student, well and truly found her voice. She has been able to explore her own feelings
relating to her place in the world as a woman and challenge the barriers that exist as a result of gender. I have a funny feeling that, now
having had the creative freedom to really think this all through, she will not face the same barriers going forward.”
$1.6 million invested
$1.6 million invested
12 global programs
$1.6 million invested
Including the expansion of Future Stories Fund UK to a second region
Reaching 1000+ young people globally
Teacher
The Power of Voice, National Literacy Trust (UK)
Reaching 1000+ young people globally
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
The Power of Voice
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
“Poverty isn’t just about money – it’s about the feeling of having less. Less choice, less security, less opportunity…
And yet, as a school community, we rarely talk about it.
Because poverty isn’t loud. It doesn’t announce itself. It doesn’t beg for attention. It stays quiet because being poor is something society makes people ashamed of, even when it’s not their fault.
Not everyone starts in the same place. Not everyone has the same safety net. And yet, people are judged for struggling – like it’s a personal failure, like they just didn’t ‘try hard enough’.
So let’s pause and think about that for a moment.
Participant, The Power of Voice
“Poverty isn’t just about money – it’s about the feeling of having less. Less choice, less security, less opportunity…
And yet, as a school community, we rarely talk about it.
Because poverty isn’t loud. It doesn’t announce itself. It doesn’t beg for attention. It stays quiet because being poor is something society makes people ashamed of, even when it’s not their fault.
Not everyone starts in the same place. Not everyone has the same safety net. And yet, people are judged for struggling – like it’s a personal failure, like they just didn’t ‘try hard enough’.
So let’s pause and think about that for a moment.
Participant, The Power of Voice
Audible is a long-term partner of the National Literacy Trust and a key funder of their program The Power of Voice, designed to boost confidence and enjoyment in writing.
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
Celebratory magazine and online all-school event
Celebratory magazine and online all-school event
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
13 school-wide assemblies
13 school-wide assemblies
Inspired by research showing that children are more motivated to write when asked to focus on causes they care about, The Power of Voice gives young people the opportunity to explore their creative potential through the lens of issues that matter to them. Over a 5-week programme, students aged 11-14 have the opportunity to work alongside professional authors, with classrooms turned into dynamic environments for debating, writing, and exchanging personal perspectives on social issues. With work then shared across the wider school community, and in a magazine and all-school celebration, students build their communication skills, confidence and self-belief.
“It made me feel proud and confident about myself and my writing. It taught me how to express my feelings.” Participant, The Power of Voice
“It made me feel proud and confident about myself and my writing. It taught me how to express my feelings.” Participant, The Power of Voice
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
530+ hours
of programming focused on podcast creation, playwriting, radio and movie production, songwriting, audiobook development and local journalism
Capacity building support
delivered to grantees across governance, legal frameworks, monitoring and evaluation, fundraising, and movement building.
04
Projects funded
04
Projects funded
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
84%
feel they can express themselves through words and language
of beneficiaries believe in their own potential
feel positive about their future options and choices
91%
80%
530+ hours
of programming focused on podcast creation, playwriting, radio and movie production, songwriting, audiobook development and local journalism
Capacity building support
delivered to grantees across governance, legal frameworks, monitoring and evaluation, fundraising, and movement building.
04
Projects funded
04
Projects funded
Future Stories Fund
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
Gaydio, Manchester
Audible’s Future Stories Fund is focused on regions where low levels of literacy and aspiration amongst marginalised communities contributes to a generational cycle of underrepresentation and poverty.
Gaydio, Manchester
Created and delivered by community radio station Gaydio, Audible Lives enables young LGTBTQ+ people from disadvantaged communities to learn storytelling through podcasting. Participants attended a series of sessions focused on storytelling, interviewing, and podcast production, and then were tasked with interviewing LGBTQ+ individuals and allies from across the UK, using these conversations as the foundation for their group-created podcasts. The Audible Lives podcast series is available via the Gaydio Academy website, offering an important resource to the whole community.
Gaydio, Manchester
Gaydio, Manchester
Created and delivered by community radio station Gaydio, Audible Lives enables young LGTBTQ+ people from disadvantaged communities to learn storytelling through podcasting. Participants attended a series of sessions focused on storytelling, interviewing, and podcast production, and then were tasked with interviewing LGBTQ+ individuals and allies from across the UK, using these conversations as the foundation for their group-created podcasts. The Audible Lives podcast series is available via the Gaydio Academy website, offering an important resource to the whole community.
Created and delivered by community radio station Gaydio, Audible Lives enables young LGTBTQ+ people from disadvantaged communities to learn storytelling through podcasting. Participants attended a series of sessions focused on storytelling, interviewing, and podcast production, and then were tasked with interviewing LGBTQ+ individuals and allies from across the UK, using these conversations as the foundation for their group-created podcasts. The Audible Lives podcast series is available via the Gaydio Academy website, offering an important resource to the whole community.
Launched in the North-West of England in 2024-25, the Fund supports community-based projects that use storytelling as a mechanism to break this cycle - exposing young people to new experiences with the aim of building confidence, creativity and transferable skills. Building on strong foundations established in the UK we are excited to expand the Fund globally in 2026.
“It made me feel proud and confident about myself and my writing. It taught me how to express my feelings.” Participant, The Power of Voice
Our impact
Our impact
“It made me feel proud and confident about myself and my writing. It taught me how to express my feelings.” Participant, The Power of Voice
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
“Audible’s support sits at the heart of our journey. Not only through resources, but through shared values, collaboration, and belief in the power of stories. This partnership helped ZULA grow from an idea into an ecosystem—and from a local initiative into a platform with global reach.”
Alain Missala, Co-Founder, ZULA
“Audible’s support sits at the heart of our journey. Not only through resources, but through shared values, collaboration, and belief in the power of stories. This partnership helped ZULA grow from an idea into an ecosystem—and from a local initiative into a platform with global reach.”
Alain Missala, Co-Founder, ZULA
“Audible’s support sits at the heart of our journey. Not only through resources, but through shared values, collaboration, and belief in the power of stories. This partnership helped ZULA grow from an idea into an ecosystem—and from a local initiative into a platform with global reach.”
Alain Missala, Co-Founder, ZULA
“Audible’s support sits at the heart of our journey. Not only through resources, but through shared values, collaboration, and belief in the power of stories. This partnership helped ZULA grow from an idea into an ecosystem—and from a local initiative into a platform with global reach.”
Alain Missala, Co-Founder, ZULA
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
ZULA
ZULA’s mission is built on the understanding that when children do not see their lives, families, or cultures represented in books, reading can feel distant – or not meant for them at all. For many families books are not a natural part of everyday life, and by the time children reach primary school significant literacy gaps have already formed.
25 original children’s books produced and published
64 creatives engaged across 4 continents
45 Audible employees supported the translation and editing of over 200 children’s books
25 children’s books recorded in 3 languages, and integrated into the ZULA Kids App
In 2025 Audible’s support drove outcomes across the ZULA ecosystem.
ZULA Connection Lab brought together creative professionals, educators and Audible employees to expand how storytelling skills are understood, taught and shared.
25 children’s books recorded in 3 languages, and integrated into the ZULA Kids App
25 children’s books recorded in 3 languages, and integrated into the ZULA Kids App
25 children’s books recorded in 3 languages, and integrated into the ZULA Kids App
Since 2024, Audible’s support and expertise has been fundamental in allowing ZULA to respond to this challenge through the creation of two interconnected initiatives. ZULA Tribe supports diverse authors through mentorship and pathways, while ZULA Kids brings their stories to a wider audience by publishing and distributing their work within schools, families and communities.
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
* Compared to an average graduation rate of 41% of Americans, 32% of Black Americans and 24% of Hispanic Americans aged 25-29)
** Compared to 50% nationally
18 Years of Outstanding Outcomes
343 participants (including 70 in 2025)
91% of alumni agree the program helped develop their career and college readiness skills
100% of Future Leaders are accepted into college, with a 98% graduation rate*
75% are employed full or part time within one year of graduating**
18 Years of Outstanding Outcomes
18 Years of Outstanding Outcomes
18 Years of Outstanding Outcomes
18 Years of Outstanding Outcomes
There are so many aspects to the legal team that I find enriching and interesting. I learned in the field of law there is no one particular path to follow. There are so many different types of law, and there are so many opportunities to explore them once you get out of college. I want to let future Audible interns know not to be shy. It can be very nerve-racking to work in a professional building with adults whom you don’t know, but everyone is really open and wants to help the interns out.
There are so many aspects to the legal team that I find enriching and interesting. I learned in the field of law there is no one particular path to follow. There are so many different types of law, and there are so many opportunities to explore them once you get out of college. I want to let future Audible interns know not to be shy. It can be very nerve-racking to work in a professional building with adults whom you don’t know, but everyone is really open and wants to help the interns out.
There are so many aspects to the legal team that I find enriching and interesting. I learned in the field of law there is no one particular path to follow. There are so many different types of law, and there are so many opportunities to explore them once you get out of college. I want to let future Audible interns know not to be shy. It can be very nerve-racking to work in a professional building with adults whom you don’t know, but everyone is really open and wants to help the interns out.
There are so many aspects to the legal team that I find enriching and interesting. I learned in the field of law there is no one particular path to follow. There are so many different types of law, and there are so many opportunities to explore them once you get out of college. I want to let future Audible interns know not to be shy. It can be very nerve-racking to work in a professional building with adults whom you don’t know, but everyone is really open and wants to help the interns out.
There are so many aspects to the legal team that I find enriching and interesting. I learned in the field of law there is no one particular path to follow. There are so many different types of law, and there are so many opportunities to explore them once you get out of college. I want to let future Audible interns know not to be shy. It can be very nerve-racking to work in a professional building with adults whom you don’t know, but everyone is really open and wants to help the interns out.
There are so many aspects to the legal team that I find enriching and interesting. I learned in the field of law there is no one particular path to follow. There are so many different types of law, and there are so many opportunities to explore them once you get out of college. I want to let future Audible interns know not to be shy. It can be very nerve-racking to work in a professional building with adults whom you don’t know, but everyone is really open and wants to help the interns out.
There are so many aspects to the legal team that I find enriching and interesting. I learned in the field of law there is no one particular path to follow. There are so many different types of law, and there are so many opportunities to explore them once you get out of college. I want to let future Audible interns know not to be shy. It can be very nerve-racking to work in a professional building with adults whom you don’t know, but everyone is really open and wants to help the interns out.
There are so many aspects to the legal team that I find enriching and interesting. I learned in the field of law there is no one particular path to follow. There are so many different types of law, and there are so many opportunities to explore them once you get out of college. I want to let future Audible interns know not to be shy. It can be very nerve-racking to work in a professional building with adults whom you don’t know, but everyone is really open and wants to help the interns out.
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
Future Leaders
Audible’s award-winning Future Leaders initiative was launched in 2007 to offer paid, year-long internships to underserved high school students in 3 U.S. Audible hubs. Recognizing that only 2% of U.S. students have access to high school internships, Audible bridges the gap by integrating immersive work projects into students’ academic journeys.
Each year Future Leaders are provided with 700+ hours of real-world work experience, school credit, and the chance to collaborate with Audible leaders across a range of departments and professions, with striking outcomes for college and career readiness.
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Imagination Fuel
Championing emerging creators
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Our work, and why it matters
At Audible, we believe stories are one of the most powerful agents of change: they educate, challenge, inspire, and bring us closer together.
That is why we invest in the creative economy worldwide, fostering emerging performers, writers, sound engineers, and other creatives from underrepresented backgrounds, and equipping them with strong pathways to grow their success. We’re committed to giving emerging creators the fuel they need, and to providing our listeners with captivating content from diverse voices that offer new perspectives and bridge divides.
The challenge
Our activities
Our outcomes
Our impact
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity. You believed in voices that often go unheard, and gave us the space to rise. I’ll never forget that. I shared my writing publicly. I am so proud of myself. And because of all of you, it won’t be the last time. This is the beginning.”
Our impact
Their understanding of career pathways grows, as does their sense of job-readiness and preparedness.
Emerging creators develop their creative skills and have an increased sense of creative self-efficacy and confidence.
Previously emerging creators from underrepresented backgrounds become established creators with thriving careers and the ability to live off their craft as their main source of income.
The representation of diverse creators in the audio-storytelling industry increases.
Emerging creators from underrepresented communities face systemic barriers such as limited access to resources, insufficient career exposure, and a lack of networks. This can hamper their ability to breakout in the industry or make a living from their craft.
We give emerging creators the fuel they need to kick-start their careers. From financial support and creative freedom, to state-of-the-art production facilities, networks, programs, classes, skill-building and more.
Emerging creators from underrepresented communities face systemic barriers such as limited access to resources, insufficient career exposure, and a lack of networks. This can hamper their ability to breakout in the industry or make a living from their craft.
“Thank you for the awesome workshops and the opportunity to meet so many people face-to-face. Great ideas and medicine were shared, and I feel blessed to be part of such a wonderful group of storytellers.” – Participant, Indigenous Writers Circle
- Participant, Caporeira for All, Future Stories Fund Grantee
“Thank you for the awesome workshops and the opportunity to meet so many people face-to-face. Great ideas and medicine were shared, and I feel blessed to be part of such a wonderful group of storytellers.” – Participant, Indigenous Writers Circle
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
What we achieved in 2025
$1.6 million invested
$1.6 million invested
Reaching 1000+ young people globally
12 global programs
“The showcase was deeply inspiring. As a young black man, I hadn't always seen poetry as a space for me, but watching the poets share their work with such passion and energy completely changed that… Thank you for creating such a programme, and for showing me that being black and creative isn't just cool; it's incredible.”
Reaching 1000+ young people globally
Including the expansion of Future Stories Fund UK to a second region
$1.6 million invested
$1.6 million invested
$1.6 million invested
$1.6 million invested
Audience Member, Barbican Young Poets Showcase
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
Bespoke Support
Bespoke Support
Participants meet for bi-weekly workshops, receiving guidance from Jacob Sam-La Rose and external industry mentors, supporting and uplifting each other while exploring new forms of expression
Participants meet for bi-weekly workshops, receiving guidance from Jacob Sam-La Rose and external industry mentors, supporting and uplifting each other while exploring new forms of expression
1:1 mentoring
1:1 mentoring
1:1
1:1
Audible Studio recording day
Audible Studio recording day
5 showcase events
5 showcase events
5 showcase events
5 showcase events
73 hours of programming
73 hours of programming
73 hours of programming
73 hours of programming
Supportive peer network
Supportive peer network
2 Audible x LAMDA workshops on writingand performing for audio
2 Audible x LAMDA workshops on writingand performing for audio
23 emerging poets
23 emerging poets
23 emerging poets
23 emerging poets
"It’s the gift that keeps on giving—the opportunities of performance and workshop facilitation are amazing, plus meeting other poets who share professional opportunities.”
Barbican Young Poets Participant 2024/-2025
Bespoke Support
2 Audible x LAMDA workshops on writingand performing for audio
5 showcase events
73 hours of programming
73 hours of programming
5 showcase events
5 showcase events
5 showcase events
5 showcase events
73 hours of programming
Barbican Young Poets
Led by internationally celebrated poet Jacob Sam-La Rose, Barbican Young Poets provides a nurturing space where young poets from marginalised communities receive a year-long programme of support and practical experience, equipping them with the skills, opportunities and confidence to build prosperous futures.
“I hadn't given too much consideration to my vocal performance as a poet, so hearing from experts in this field was really enlightening. The session with LAMDA was incredible!”
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
Barbican Young Poets Participant 2024/-2025
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
Sundance Collab
In April 2025 Audible came together with Sundance Collab, a digital platform where creators across the globe can learn, share and connect.
Over the course of two days aspiring and established creators were guided through a live, online Audio Storytelling Intensive on the art of crafting compelling audio stories.
The Intensive generated significant interest worldwide, with 200 aspiring and established audio storytellers applying. 76 participants were selected to take part in 14 hours of free expert instruction, collaboration, and industry insight covering idea development, production process, pitching and distribution.
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
95%
95% were very satisfied or satisfied with the content covered
76 participants, 52% female
76 participants, 52% female
“This was an eye-opening class that reignited my passion for storytelling. Thank you Sundance Collab and Audible for doing this!”
95%
86% would recommend the course to others
76 participants, 52% female
95%
76 participants, 52% female
100% indicated the course will help them moving forward
- Participant, Oklahoma, U.S.
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
Emerging Playwrights Fund
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
Audible’s Emerging Playwrights Fund is designed to empower early-career theatrical writers by commissioning, developing, and producing original dramatic works tailored specifically for audio.
Yilong Yiu
50 original audio plays created since 2018 with the support of the Fund
34 released on Audible
3 staged lived at Audible’s Minetta Lane Theatre in New York
Increased creative diversity, with a minimum of 50% of commissions given to artists of color and women
34 released on Audible
34 released on Audible
34 released on Audible
34 released on Audible
34 released on Audible
Increased creative diversity, with a minimum of 50% of commissions given to artists of color and women
Increased creative diversity, with a minimum of 50% of commissions given to artists of color and women
Selected playwrights supported to bring their commission to life
Selected playwrights supported to bring their commission to life
Dramaturgical support
Creative resources
Workspace
Funding
Dramaturgical support
Creative resources
Workspace
Funding
Liu is a New York-based playwright originally from Chongqing, China. As part of the Emerging Playwrights Fund his play Good Enemy was produced as an Audible Original, and premiered off Broadway at Minetta Lane Theater. It tells the story of Howard, a Chinese immigrant, confronting his past during 1980s China and his present-day relationship with his daughter in the U.S.
The program supports visionaries with distinctive voices and urgent stories, who can craft immersive fictional experiences that engage, entertain, and inspire. Applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to submit a script for consideration, with a strong emphasis on diverse voices and perspectives.
Selected candidates gain access to an international platform for their work. Audible offers financial assistance, creative resources, workspace, and dramaturgical support to facilitate the audio production of each commission, and in some cases a live stage component.
Now in its eighth year, the Fund has supported the creation of 50 projects, with 34 of these released on Audible and three staged live at Audible’s Minetta Lane Theatre in New York.
“It made me feel proud and confident about myself and my writing. It taught me how to express my feelings.” Participant, The Power of Voice
Listen on Audible here.
“It made me feel proud and confident about myself and my writing. It taught me how to express my feelings.” Participant, The Power of Voice
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
"Being paid for participation was brilliant and genuinely sets this programme apart. That kind of recognition of participants' time and expertise is rare and deeply appreciated."
Participant, Off-Mic Returns
- Professional development within a supportive, collaborative environment
- Comprehensive technical and accessibility support
-Access to professional studio facilities and equipment
- Industry networking opportunities and introductions
- Professional mentorship from experienced industry producers
- Creation of portfolio-worthy audio content
-Hands-on production experience across multiple audio formats
"Being paid for participation was brilliant and genuinely sets this programme apart. That kind of recognition of participants' time and expertise is rare and deeply appreciated."
Participant, Off-Mic Returns
- Professional development within a supportive, collaborative environment
- Comprehensive technical and accessibility support
-Access to professional studio facilities and equipment
- Industry networking opportunities and introductions
- Professional mentorship from experienced industry producers
- Creation of portfolio-worthy audio content
-Hands-on production experience across multiple audio formats
Off-Mic Returns
"The sound design workshop was great! Audible brought in Emma Barnaby, an award-winning audio producer, sound designer, and musician, to run the workshop. She gave us a real and honest insight into what a sound designer’s job looks like currently. She showed us her workflow, talked us through briefs and examples of her recent work. Since the workshop, I’ve been studying Pro Tools online and I’m planning to join a sound design course next year."
12 industry-ready audio specialists with hands-on production experience
3 professional-quality audio pieces
Greater diversity in the pool of audio production professionals
34 released on Audible
34 released on Audible
Off-Mic Returns Participant
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
In 2024, Audible teamed up with leading audio charity Multitrack to launch free workshops for underrepresented communities. The sessions provided foundational training in a variety of off-mic roles, delivered by experts and leading figures across the audio sector.
In 2025 we took things to the next level, inviting 12 graduates back to create three original audio productions across drama, documentary, and short story formats. Equality of opportunity was ensured through payment for participation, and a bursary to cover essential equipment and participation costs. Through 5 months of specialized production skills development, professional mentorship and access to professional studios, participants developed the knowledge, portfolio of content, and industry connections to take the next step in their careers.
Participant, Off-Mic Returns
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
Indigenous Writers Circle
Reaching 1000+ young people globally
Reaching 1000+ young people globally
Reaching 1000+ young people globally
2025 saw Audible Canada’s Indigenous Writers’ Circle return for its fifth year. Created to support the next wave of creatives from the First Nations, Metis, and Inuit communities, the program fuels emerging careers, and elevates the voices of Indigenous Peoples to enhance equity, and support understanding and reconciliation following centuries of systemic injustice.
21 emerging Indigenous writers supported by 7 mentors
20 workshops,
Reaching 1000+ young people globally
500 hours of support delivered, guided by the voices and leadership of Indigenous communities
“Thank you for the awesome workshops and the opportunity to meet so many people face-to-face. Great ideas and medicine were shared, and I feel blessed to be part of such a wonderful group of storytellers.”
Enhanced peer to peer engagement delivered by alumni through one-on-one support, bi-weekly meet ups and reading sessions, and quarterly newsletters
The 6-month program leverages Audible’s resources and connections to deliver immersive workshops across fictional writing, indigenous grant writing, media, AI, ekphratic writing, publishing and agenting, audio recording and narration, editing, poetry writing, narrative confidence, and voice acting.
Participants learn from some of the industry’s leading creators, publishers, content managers, writers and marketers, and are paired with Indigenous mentors to guide their development and identify opportunities.
2020-25 19 participants have published works or secured book deals
- Stacie Van Every
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
Pitching Project
“I was already familiar with Audible, it’s become the benchmark for audio stories, so I knew this was a chance not only to get the project funded but to have it distributed to a wide audience… Lorrana and I are used to seeing stories from our region appropriated by outsiders, often without the care to portray our lived experience. Audible always respected our experiences and encouraged us to bring our accents, customs and realities into the story… I plan to invest in more audio projects, since Qual o Destino? will give me visibility and let me explore paths I haven’t had access to yet.”
Audible Originals first launched in Brazil in October 2024, offering a natural opportunity to support, highlight, and nurture the nation’s creative talent.
200 entries
200 entries
6 finalists invited to pitch in person
Qual o Destino?
6 finalists invited to pitch in person
Winner of Pitching Project, Qual o Destino?, tackles the issue of femicide in the regional city of Goiânia. The story is audio led, with the narrative unfolding through the conversations, podcasts and radio programs of a local taxi driver.
1 winner – ‘Qual o Destino?’ A thriller created by Mikaela Pasa and Lorrana Flores
1 winner – ‘Qual o Destino?’ A thriller created by Mikaela Pasa and Lorrana Flores
To further encourage and guide new creators, Audible also created a free 30-episode masterclass, covering every aspect of audio narrative production, from writing and performance to sound design.
1 winner – ‘Qual o Destino?’ A thriller created by Mikaela Pasa and Lorrana Flores
Mikaela Pasa, co-creator of Qual o Destino?
Meet the winner here
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Looking Forward
Audible Social Impact Report
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Activate Caring
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Activate Caring
Imagination Fuel
Our approach, and why it matters
At Audible, we believe in the power of allofus. By leveraging the genius and generosity of our employees we can achieve remarkable things for society, and for our business.
The Impact
Audible’s Commitment
Our impact
Marginalized communities benefit from our employees’ unique talents, expertise and passion
Employees feel pride in the company and engagement with our shared purpose
Audible exemplifies what a company can mean beyond what it does, differentiating itself and attracting prospective employees, creators and partners
Our People Principles
Activate Caring
Volunteering
Audible's People Principles celebrate who we are and where we've been, and guide the way we work shoulder to shoulder to enhance the lives of our millions of customers and beyond.
Audible's People Principles celebrate who we are and where we've been, and guide the way we work shoulder to shoulder to enhance the lives of our millions of customers and beyond.
Our key mechanism for Activate Caring, delivered through two channels:
- Global Center-led: The talent, expertise, and passion of employees is leveraged in the design and delivery of every one of our Center-led social impact programs
- Employee-led: We empower and support employees to identify and activate their own programs, addressing local needs in the communities they call home
Our key mechanism for Activate Caring, delivered through two channels:
- Global Center-led: The talent, expertise, and passion of employees is leveraged in the design and delivery of every one of our Center-led social impact programs
- Employee-led: We empower and support employees to identify and activate their own programs, addressing local needs in the communities they call home
Our People Principles
Activate Caring
Volunteering
Audible's People Principles celebrate who we are and where we've been, and guide the way we work shoulder to shoulder to enhance the lives of our millions of customers and beyond.
Audible's People Principles celebrate who we are and where we've been, and guide the way we work shoulder to shoulder to enhance the lives of our millions of customers and beyond.
Our key mechanism for Activate Caring, delivered through two channels:
- Global Center-led: The talent, expertise, and passion of employees is leveraged in the design and delivery of every one of our Center-led social impact programs
- Employee-led: We empower and support employees to identify and activate their own programs, addressing local needs in the communities they call home
Our key mechanism for Activate Caring, delivered through two channels:
- Global Center-led: The talent, expertise, and passion of employees is leveraged in the design and delivery of every one of our Center-led social impact programs
- Employee-led: We empower and support employees to identify and activate their own programs, addressing local needs in the communities they call home
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity. You believed in voices that often go unheard, and gave us the space to rise. I’ll never forget that. I shared my writing publicly. I am so proud of myself. And because of all of you, it won’t be the last time. This is the beginning.”
Activate Caring is something I feel when I engage with people. As the saying goes, you never forget how people make you feel, and the people I work with inspire and uplift me daily.’ Farren Roper, Senior Leader, Spectrum and Belonging, Audible
- Participant, Caporeira for All, Future Stories Fund Grantee
Activate Caring is something I feel when I engage with people. As the saying goes, you never forget how people make you feel, and the people I work with inspire and uplift me daily.’ Farren Roper, Senior Leader, Spectrum and Belonging, Audible
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Activate Caring
Imagination Fuel
What our employees achieved in 2025
‘At Audible we remember that people will invariably forget things you say, but they will rarely forget how you make them feel.’
‘At Audible we remember that people will invariably forget things you say, but they will rarely forget how you make them feel.’
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity. You believed in voices that often go unheard, and gave us the space to rise. I’ll never forget that. I shared my writing publicly. I am so proud of myself. And because of all of you, it won’t be the last time. This is the beginning.”
$1.6 million invested
$1.6 million invested
$1.6 million invested
$1.6 million invested
- Participant, Caporeira for All, Future Stories Fund Grantee
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Activate Caring
Imagination Fuel
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
Activate Caring Ambassador Program
The Activate Caring Ambassadors Program convenes a group of 8 passionate Audible employees across 6 of our global hubs, who have stepped forward to champion the Activate Caring vision.
Ambassador Spotlight:
“Since the launch of the Ambassador Program in Berlin, we have organized 11 Activate Caring initiatives, with 61 Audible employees collectively contributing over 250 hours of volunteering.
Our activities have ranged from fostering literacy skills amongst children at Spreewald Primary School, to engaging in social activities with seniors at the Johanniter Family Center, and distributing meals to those in need.
Our volunteering programs enable us to give back to the community while connecting with diverse realities, from underprivileged children to individuals experiencing homelessness. The empathy and generosity that our Berlin employees bring to every volunteering event are what continually inspire and drive my motivation as an Activate Caring ambassador!”
Their role spans identifying opportunities to support organizations aligned with our mission, and designing and facilitating volunteer opportunities that allow employees to contribute to global impact initiatives and localized opportunities. Their work brings our social impact mission to life in local communities, plays an important role in shaping our culture, and offers Ambassadors a unique opportunity for both professional and personal growth.
Federica Vidoni, CS Knowledge Specialist Hub
Berlin, Germany
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Activate Caring
Imagination Fuel
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
Beaba Institute Audio Guide
“Having an audiobook with clear, steady, warm, and fun narration, along with soundtracks and sound effects, made all the difference. When information arrives with clarity and care, it reduces anxiety and brings people closer to their own care journey. We are immensely grateful to Audible and all the professionals and partners who made this possible. The feedback we've received from patients, families, and healthcare professionals has been filled with warmth and gratitude.”
Simone Mozzillo, Founder, Instituto Beaba
In a groundbreaking collaboration for 2025, the Audible Brazil team worked in partnership with Instituto Beaba to develop an audio guide designed to support pediatric cancer patients and their families.
“Having an audiobook with clear, steady, warm, and fun narration, along with soundtracks and sound effects, made all the difference. When information arrives with clarity and care, it reduces anxiety and brings people closer to their own care journey. We are immensely grateful to Audible and all the professionals and partners who made this possible. The feedback we've received from patients, families, and healthcare professionals has been filled with warmth and gratitude.”
“Having an audiobook with clear, steady, warm, and fun narration, along with soundtracks and sound effects, made all the difference. When information arrives with clarity and care, it reduces anxiety and brings people closer to their own care journey. We are immensely grateful to Audible and all the professionals and partners who made this possible. The feedback we've received from patients, families, and healthcare professionals has been filled with warmth and gratitude.”
Simone Mozzillo, Founder, Instituto Beaba
Simone Mozzillo, Founder, Instituto Beaba
The resource brings to life Beaba’s existing Cancer Guide, a written resource which decodes 190 oncology terms, empowering young patients to better understand their treatment. The new freely available audio version represents a significant advancement in content accessibility, especially for children and adolescents with impaired vision or reading difficulties during treatment. The year-long creative initiative engaged 60% of Audible’s Brazil team across multiple functions – marketing content, production, PR, creative and other – fostering a culture of purpose-driven work. It represents a pioneering and replicable approach to healthcare accessibility, and exemplifies how we can leverage our core capabilities to create transformative social impact.
Subtitle
Audible Social Impact Report
Imagination Next
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Activate Caring
Imagination Fuel
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
Sundance Collab
In April 2025 Audible came together with Sundance Collab, a digital platform where creators across the globe can learn, share and connect.
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Over the course of two days aspiring and established creators were guided through a live, online Audio Storytelling Intensive on the art of crafting compelling audio stories.
The Intensive generated significant interest worldwide, with 200 aspiring and established audio storytellers applying. 76 participants were selected to take part in 14 hours of free expert instruction, collaboration, and industry insight covering idea development, production process, pitching and distribution.
Over the course of two days aspiring and established creators were guided through a live, online Audio Storytelling Intensive on the art of crafting compelling audio stories.
The Intensive generated significant interest worldwide, with 200 aspiring and established audio storytellers applying. 76 participants were selected to take part in 14 hours of free expert instruction, collaboration, and industry insight covering idea development, production process, pitching and distribution.
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Over the course of two days aspiring and established creators were guided through a live, online Audio Storytelling Intensive on the art of crafting compelling audio stories.
The Intensive generated significant interest worldwide, with 200 aspiring and established audio storytellers applying. 76 participants were selected to take part in 14 hours of free expert instruction, collaboration, and industry insight covering idea development, production process, pitching and distribution.
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Over the course of two days aspiring and established creators were guided through a live, online Audio Storytelling Intensive on the art of crafting compelling audio stories.
The Intensive generated significant interest worldwide, with 200 aspiring and established audio storytellers applying. 76 participants were selected to take part in 14 hours of free expert instruction, collaboration, and industry insight covering idea development, production process, pitching and distribution.
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Over the course of two days aspiring and established creators were guided through a live, online Audio Storytelling Intensive on the art of crafting compelling audio stories.
The Intensive generated significant interest worldwide, with 200 aspiring and established audio storytellers applying. 76 participants were selected to take part in 14 hours of free expert instruction, collaboration, and industry insight covering idea development, production process, pitching and distribution.
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Subtitle
Looking Forward
Audible Social Impact Report
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Next
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Looking Forward
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Looking Forward
Audible Social Impact Report
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Our 2026 Ambitions
Ambassador Spotlight:
The roadmap for 2026 is clear – continue to invest intentionally to nurture young imaginations, support creators, and reshape our industry as a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable force for good.
Ambassador Spotlight:
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Imagination Next
Imagination Next
Imagination Fuel
Imagination Fuel
Imagination Thrive
Imagination Thrive
Ambassador Spotlight:
Ambassador Spotlight:
Ambassador Spotlight:
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity. You believed in voices that often go unheard, and gave us the space to rise. I’ll never forget that. I shared my writing publicly. I am so proud of myself. And because of all of you, it won’t be the last time. This is the beginning.”
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Ambassador Spotlight:
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Ambassador Spotlight:
Ambassador Spotlight:
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
- Participant, Caporeira for All, Future Stories Fund Grantee
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Looking Forward
Audible Social Impact Report
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Looking Forward
Looking Forward
Looking Forward
Audible Report Concepts Round 3.pdf
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Transcript
Subtitle
Audible Social Impact Report
Foreword
By harnessing the transformative power of storytelling and imagination, we are committed to catalyzing a more just and equitable society.
from our Global Head of Urban Innovation
Across Audible, our teams also bring an extraordinary depth of skill and experience that strengthens our programs and our partnerships with communities.
As a pioneer in the audio storytelling industry, Audible has continually reimagined how people connect with stories, creating immersive experiences that transport listeners and enrich their daily lives. As the Global Head of Urban Innovation, I am proud that this same spirit of innovation guides our approach to social impact. From our earliest days, we have believed that a company should stand for more than what it does.
As a pioneer in the audio storytelling industry, Audible has continually reimagined how people connect with stories, creating immersive experiences that transport listeners and enrich their daily lives. As the Global Head of Urban Innovation, I am proud that this same spirit of innovation guides our approach to social impact. From our earliest days, we have believed that a company should stand for more than what it does.
It is a powerful combination that allows us to bring a global vision to life at local levels in a way that is unique to Audible. We send our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed their time, expertise, and ideas.
Our mission is focused on increasing access and opportunities for underrepresented voices through action, and is delivered through three key pillars: Imagination Fuel, Imagination Next, and Imagination Thrive.
Through this work we unlock new narratives of collective prosperity for emerging creators and young people across the global communities that we call home as well as in our HQ community of Newark, NJ, USA. Turning imagination into action is only possible because of passionate people. We are grateful to collaborate with visionary organizations and changemakers who are deeply rooted in their communities, offering unmatched knowledge and insight that brings our mission to life.
While this report highlights what we collectively accomplished in 2025, we also look forward to the future – to how we can continue to listen, learn and grow alongside our communities to unlock a more equitable and just future. We believe stories and imagination truly can transform lives, and we are honored to invite you on this journey with us. To reflect on how far we have come, and to explore the opportunities that lie ahead. Together let’s create innovative solutions that create greater prosperity for all, and bring our shared vision to life.
Through this work we unlock new narratives of collective prosperity for emerging creators and young people across the global communities that we call home as well as in our HQ community of Newark, NJ, USA. Turning imagination into action is only possible because of passionate people. We are grateful to collaborate with visionary organizations and changemakers who are deeply rooted in their communities, offering unmatched knowledge and insight that brings our mission to life.
Through this work we unlock new narratives of collective prosperity for emerging creators and young people across the global communities that we call home as well as in our HQ community of Newark, NJ, USA. Turning imagination into action is only possible because of passionate people. We are grateful to collaborate with visionary organizations and changemakers who are deeply rooted in their communities, offering unmatched knowledge and insight that brings our mission to life.
Aisha Glover,
Through this work we unlock new narratives of collective prosperity for emerging creators and young people across the global communities that we call home as well as in our HQ community of Newark, NJ, USA. Turning imagination into action is only possible because of passionate people. We are grateful to collaborate with visionary organizations and changemakers who are deeply rooted in their communities, offering unmatched knowledge and insight that brings our mission to life.
Aisha Glover,
Global Head of Urban Innovation,
Audible
Subtitle
Audible Social Impact Report
Our 2025 Story
This report shares our progress in 2025, with a specific focus on two of our pillars – supporting emerging creators through Imagination Fuel, and developing opportunities for young people though Imagination Next. It also shines a spotlight on our Activate Caring principle, and the unique contribution of our employees to creating positive change.
2025 snapshot
00
2025 snapshot
00
Who we are
00
Imagination Next
00
Imagination Fuel
00
Activate Caring
00
Looking forward
00
Subtitle
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Who We Are
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
An introduction to Audible
You may know Audible as the leading creator and provider of premium audio storytelling. Reaching audiences in more than 180 countries and across 50 languages we create immersive, cinematic experiences that transport our listeners to new worlds. Since inventing an entirely new media category in 1995, we continue to dream into the future in everything we do. From pioneering new technologies to developing original programming, we innovate boldly, inventing on behalf of our customers and creating what’s next before they ask. Entrepreneurial spirit continues to serve as the guiding principle when it comes to social impact. In 2007 we moved our headquarters to Newark to accelerate the renaissance of a great American city, and in 2020 we launched the Global Center for Urban Innovation. Acting as a global lead for our local approach, we continue to align and advance our innovative efforts to create positive, lasting change across the marketplaces we serve worldwide.
You may know Audible as the leading creator and provider of premium audio storytelling. Reaching audiences in more than 180 countries and across 50 languages we create immersive, cinematic experiences that transport our listeners to new worlds. Since inventing an entirely new media category in 1995, we continue to dream into the future in everything we do. From pioneering new technologies to developing original programming, we innovate boldly, inventing on behalf of our customers and creating what’s next before they ask. Entrepreneurial spirit continues to serve as the guiding principle when it comes to social impact. In 2007 we moved our headquarters to Newark to accelerate the renaissance of a great American city, and in 2020 we launched the Global Center for Urban Innovation. Acting as a global lead for our local approach, we continue to align and advance our innovative efforts to create positive, lasting change across the marketplaces we serve worldwide.
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Our Purpose
Our distinctive approach
Our distinctive approach
Our distinctive approach
We believe in the transformative power of stories and imagination.
By leveraging our unique capabilities, we approach social impact in a way that is distinctly Audible.
How we deliver
Imagination Next
Imagination Next
Our Vision
We invest in the next generation through initiatives that increase opportunities for youth.
People
A world where the transformative power of stories and imagination catalyzes a more equitable and just society.
We elevate the quality of our programs by engaging our employees and sharing their expertise
Imagination Fuel
Imagination Fuel
What we do
We increase access and opportunities for underrepresented voices to unlock new narratives of collective prosperity.
We champion emerging storytellers around the world, providing the fuel they need to kickstart their careers.
Product
We unlock unique value and opportunity through our platform and catalogue of titles
Imagination Thrive
Imagination Thrive
We foster a thriving neighborhood in our headquarters city of Newark through innovation and economic development.
Position
Our size and global footprint brings the power to influence and be standard bearer for what companies can be, beyond what they do
Aisha Glover,
Subtitle
Audible Social Impact Report
Imagination Next
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
$3.3 million invested
$3.3 million invested
$3.3 million invested
$3.3 million invested
The Audible Difference
“This program gave me more than a platform. It gave me permission to believe in my voice. Thank you for creating a space where stories like mine could not only exist. But be honoured, nurtured, and heard.” Future Stories Fund participant, UK
Year in Review
Our programs sparked imagination and catalyzed change across 12 countries and 5 continents.
In 2025 we were proud to consolidate and expand our programming, bringing positive impact to communities through the combined expertise of our employees and delivery partners.
$3.3 million invested
$3.3 million invested
$3.3 million invested
“This program gave me more than a platform. It gave me permission to believe in my voice. Thank you for creating a space where stories like mine could not only exist. But be honoured, nurtured, and heard.” Future Stories Fund participant, UK
$3.3 million invested
$3.3 million invested
$3.3 million invested
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Imagination Next
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Our work, and why it matters
There is no more important investment than in the next generation. Young people today represent the storytellers, innovators and leaders of tomorrow. That’s why we work to nurture their potential, focusing specifically on educational innovations that, empower marginalized youth to imagine new possibilities for themselves and their communities.
Our impact
Our outcomes
Our activities
The challenge
Our impact
We build real-world opportunities, creating pathways from imagination through to practical skills application and career networking and exploration.
We develop young imaginations through storytelling, increasing access to culturally relevant content and creating programs and platforms for underrepresented young people to share their stories.
Underrepresented young people become empowered storytellers, innovators, and leaders who use their imagination and skills to create more equitable narratives and solutions in their communities and beyond, ultimately contributing to a more just society where diverse voices shape our collective future.
Underrepresented young people become empowered storytellers, innovators, and leaders who use their imagination and skills to create more equitable narratives and solutions in their communities and beyond, ultimately contributing to a more just society where diverse voices shape our collective future.
Their sense of agency and self-advocacy grows, as does their awareness of potential career possibilities.
Young people have an increased sense of confidence, and a greater ability to express themselves through enhanced literacy and communication skills.
The current education and youth development landscape often undervalues imagination and storytelling as critical skills for personal and professional development.
The current education and youth development landscape often undervalues imagination and storytelling as critical skills for personal and professional development.
Young people from underrepresented communities face systemic barriers that limit their access to opportunities and their ability to envision and create equitable futures.
Young people from underrepresented communities face systemic barriers that limit their access to opportunities and their ability to envision and create equitable futures.
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity. You believed in voices that often go unheard, and gave us the space to rise. I’ll never forget that. I shared my writing publicly. I am so proud of myself. And because of all of you, it won’t be the last time. This is the beginning.”
- Participant, Caporeira for All, Future Stories Fund Grantee
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
What we achieved in 2025
“One of our pupils, normally a quiet and reserved student, well and truly found her voice. She has been able to explore her own feelings relating to her place in the world as a woman and challenge the barriers that exist as a result of gender. I have a funny feeling that, now having had the creative freedom to really think this all through, she will not face the same barriers going forward.”
$1.6 million invested
$1.6 million invested
12 global programs
$1.6 million invested
Including the expansion of Future Stories Fund UK to a second region
Reaching 1000+ young people globally
Teacher The Power of Voice, National Literacy Trust (UK)
Reaching 1000+ young people globally
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
The Power of Voice
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
“Poverty isn’t just about money – it’s about the feeling of having less. Less choice, less security, less opportunity… And yet, as a school community, we rarely talk about it. Because poverty isn’t loud. It doesn’t announce itself. It doesn’t beg for attention. It stays quiet because being poor is something society makes people ashamed of, even when it’s not their fault. Not everyone starts in the same place. Not everyone has the same safety net. And yet, people are judged for struggling – like it’s a personal failure, like they just didn’t ‘try hard enough’. So let’s pause and think about that for a moment. Participant, The Power of Voice
“Poverty isn’t just about money – it’s about the feeling of having less. Less choice, less security, less opportunity… And yet, as a school community, we rarely talk about it. Because poverty isn’t loud. It doesn’t announce itself. It doesn’t beg for attention. It stays quiet because being poor is something society makes people ashamed of, even when it’s not their fault. Not everyone starts in the same place. Not everyone has the same safety net. And yet, people are judged for struggling – like it’s a personal failure, like they just didn’t ‘try hard enough’. So let’s pause and think about that for a moment. Participant, The Power of Voice
Audible is a long-term partner of the National Literacy Trust and a key funder of their program The Power of Voice, designed to boost confidence and enjoyment in writing.
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
450 young people reached across 13 schools and 8 cities in areas of high deprivation
Celebratory magazine and online all-school event
Celebratory magazine and online all-school event
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
13 school-wide assemblies
13 school-wide assemblies
Inspired by research showing that children are more motivated to write when asked to focus on causes they care about, The Power of Voice gives young people the opportunity to explore their creative potential through the lens of issues that matter to them. Over a 5-week programme, students aged 11-14 have the opportunity to work alongside professional authors, with classrooms turned into dynamic environments for debating, writing, and exchanging personal perspectives on social issues. With work then shared across the wider school community, and in a magazine and all-school celebration, students build their communication skills, confidence and self-belief.
“It made me feel proud and confident about myself and my writing. It taught me how to express my feelings.” Participant, The Power of Voice
“It made me feel proud and confident about myself and my writing. It taught me how to express my feelings.” Participant, The Power of Voice
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
530+ hours
of programming focused on podcast creation, playwriting, radio and movie production, songwriting, audiobook development and local journalism
Capacity building support
delivered to grantees across governance, legal frameworks, monitoring and evaluation, fundraising, and movement building.
04
Projects funded
04
Projects funded
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
84%
feel they can express themselves through words and language
of beneficiaries believe in their own potential
feel positive about their future options and choices
91%
80%
530+ hours
of programming focused on podcast creation, playwriting, radio and movie production, songwriting, audiobook development and local journalism
Capacity building support
delivered to grantees across governance, legal frameworks, monitoring and evaluation, fundraising, and movement building.
04
Projects funded
04
Projects funded
Future Stories Fund
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
Gaydio, Manchester
Audible’s Future Stories Fund is focused on regions where low levels of literacy and aspiration amongst marginalised communities contributes to a generational cycle of underrepresentation and poverty.
Gaydio, Manchester
Created and delivered by community radio station Gaydio, Audible Lives enables young LGTBTQ+ people from disadvantaged communities to learn storytelling through podcasting. Participants attended a series of sessions focused on storytelling, interviewing, and podcast production, and then were tasked with interviewing LGBTQ+ individuals and allies from across the UK, using these conversations as the foundation for their group-created podcasts. The Audible Lives podcast series is available via the Gaydio Academy website, offering an important resource to the whole community.
Gaydio, Manchester
Gaydio, Manchester
Created and delivered by community radio station Gaydio, Audible Lives enables young LGTBTQ+ people from disadvantaged communities to learn storytelling through podcasting. Participants attended a series of sessions focused on storytelling, interviewing, and podcast production, and then were tasked with interviewing LGBTQ+ individuals and allies from across the UK, using these conversations as the foundation for their group-created podcasts. The Audible Lives podcast series is available via the Gaydio Academy website, offering an important resource to the whole community.
Created and delivered by community radio station Gaydio, Audible Lives enables young LGTBTQ+ people from disadvantaged communities to learn storytelling through podcasting. Participants attended a series of sessions focused on storytelling, interviewing, and podcast production, and then were tasked with interviewing LGBTQ+ individuals and allies from across the UK, using these conversations as the foundation for their group-created podcasts. The Audible Lives podcast series is available via the Gaydio Academy website, offering an important resource to the whole community.
Launched in the North-West of England in 2024-25, the Fund supports community-based projects that use storytelling as a mechanism to break this cycle - exposing young people to new experiences with the aim of building confidence, creativity and transferable skills. Building on strong foundations established in the UK we are excited to expand the Fund globally in 2026.
“It made me feel proud and confident about myself and my writing. It taught me how to express my feelings.” Participant, The Power of Voice
Our impact
Our impact
“It made me feel proud and confident about myself and my writing. It taught me how to express my feelings.” Participant, The Power of Voice
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
“Audible’s support sits at the heart of our journey. Not only through resources, but through shared values, collaboration, and belief in the power of stories. This partnership helped ZULA grow from an idea into an ecosystem—and from a local initiative into a platform with global reach.” Alain Missala, Co-Founder, ZULA
“Audible’s support sits at the heart of our journey. Not only through resources, but through shared values, collaboration, and belief in the power of stories. This partnership helped ZULA grow from an idea into an ecosystem—and from a local initiative into a platform with global reach.” Alain Missala, Co-Founder, ZULA
“Audible’s support sits at the heart of our journey. Not only through resources, but through shared values, collaboration, and belief in the power of stories. This partnership helped ZULA grow from an idea into an ecosystem—and from a local initiative into a platform with global reach.” Alain Missala, Co-Founder, ZULA
“Audible’s support sits at the heart of our journey. Not only through resources, but through shared values, collaboration, and belief in the power of stories. This partnership helped ZULA grow from an idea into an ecosystem—and from a local initiative into a platform with global reach.” Alain Missala, Co-Founder, ZULA
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
ZULA
ZULA’s mission is built on the understanding that when children do not see their lives, families, or cultures represented in books, reading can feel distant – or not meant for them at all. For many families books are not a natural part of everyday life, and by the time children reach primary school significant literacy gaps have already formed.
25 original children’s books produced and published
64 creatives engaged across 4 continents
45 Audible employees supported the translation and editing of over 200 children’s books
25 children’s books recorded in 3 languages, and integrated into the ZULA Kids App
In 2025 Audible’s support drove outcomes across the ZULA ecosystem.
ZULA Connection Lab brought together creative professionals, educators and Audible employees to expand how storytelling skills are understood, taught and shared.
25 children’s books recorded in 3 languages, and integrated into the ZULA Kids App
25 children’s books recorded in 3 languages, and integrated into the ZULA Kids App
25 children’s books recorded in 3 languages, and integrated into the ZULA Kids App
Since 2024, Audible’s support and expertise has been fundamental in allowing ZULA to respond to this challenge through the creation of two interconnected initiatives. ZULA Tribe supports diverse authors through mentorship and pathways, while ZULA Kids brings their stories to a wider audience by publishing and distributing their work within schools, families and communities.
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
* Compared to an average graduation rate of 41% of Americans, 32% of Black Americans and 24% of Hispanic Americans aged 25-29) ** Compared to 50% nationally
18 Years of Outstanding Outcomes
343 participants (including 70 in 2025)
91% of alumni agree the program helped develop their career and college readiness skills
100% of Future Leaders are accepted into college, with a 98% graduation rate*
75% are employed full or part time within one year of graduating**
18 Years of Outstanding Outcomes
18 Years of Outstanding Outcomes
18 Years of Outstanding Outcomes
18 Years of Outstanding Outcomes
There are so many aspects to the legal team that I find enriching and interesting. I learned in the field of law there is no one particular path to follow. There are so many different types of law, and there are so many opportunities to explore them once you get out of college. I want to let future Audible interns know not to be shy. It can be very nerve-racking to work in a professional building with adults whom you don’t know, but everyone is really open and wants to help the interns out.
There are so many aspects to the legal team that I find enriching and interesting. I learned in the field of law there is no one particular path to follow. There are so many different types of law, and there are so many opportunities to explore them once you get out of college. I want to let future Audible interns know not to be shy. It can be very nerve-racking to work in a professional building with adults whom you don’t know, but everyone is really open and wants to help the interns out.
There are so many aspects to the legal team that I find enriching and interesting. I learned in the field of law there is no one particular path to follow. There are so many different types of law, and there are so many opportunities to explore them once you get out of college. I want to let future Audible interns know not to be shy. It can be very nerve-racking to work in a professional building with adults whom you don’t know, but everyone is really open and wants to help the interns out.
There are so many aspects to the legal team that I find enriching and interesting. I learned in the field of law there is no one particular path to follow. There are so many different types of law, and there are so many opportunities to explore them once you get out of college. I want to let future Audible interns know not to be shy. It can be very nerve-racking to work in a professional building with adults whom you don’t know, but everyone is really open and wants to help the interns out.
There are so many aspects to the legal team that I find enriching and interesting. I learned in the field of law there is no one particular path to follow. There are so many different types of law, and there are so many opportunities to explore them once you get out of college. I want to let future Audible interns know not to be shy. It can be very nerve-racking to work in a professional building with adults whom you don’t know, but everyone is really open and wants to help the interns out.
There are so many aspects to the legal team that I find enriching and interesting. I learned in the field of law there is no one particular path to follow. There are so many different types of law, and there are so many opportunities to explore them once you get out of college. I want to let future Audible interns know not to be shy. It can be very nerve-racking to work in a professional building with adults whom you don’t know, but everyone is really open and wants to help the interns out.
There are so many aspects to the legal team that I find enriching and interesting. I learned in the field of law there is no one particular path to follow. There are so many different types of law, and there are so many opportunities to explore them once you get out of college. I want to let future Audible interns know not to be shy. It can be very nerve-racking to work in a professional building with adults whom you don’t know, but everyone is really open and wants to help the interns out.
There are so many aspects to the legal team that I find enriching and interesting. I learned in the field of law there is no one particular path to follow. There are so many different types of law, and there are so many opportunities to explore them once you get out of college. I want to let future Audible interns know not to be shy. It can be very nerve-racking to work in a professional building with adults whom you don’t know, but everyone is really open and wants to help the interns out.
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
Future Leaders
Audible’s award-winning Future Leaders initiative was launched in 2007 to offer paid, year-long internships to underserved high school students in 3 U.S. Audible hubs. Recognizing that only 2% of U.S. students have access to high school internships, Audible bridges the gap by integrating immersive work projects into students’ academic journeys.
Each year Future Leaders are provided with 700+ hours of real-world work experience, school credit, and the chance to collaborate with Audible leaders across a range of departments and professions, with striking outcomes for college and career readiness.
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Imagination Fuel
Championing emerging creators
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Our work, and why it matters
At Audible, we believe stories are one of the most powerful agents of change: they educate, challenge, inspire, and bring us closer together.
That is why we invest in the creative economy worldwide, fostering emerging performers, writers, sound engineers, and other creatives from underrepresented backgrounds, and equipping them with strong pathways to grow their success. We’re committed to giving emerging creators the fuel they need, and to providing our listeners with captivating content from diverse voices that offer new perspectives and bridge divides.
The challenge
Our activities
Our outcomes
Our impact
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity. You believed in voices that often go unheard, and gave us the space to rise. I’ll never forget that. I shared my writing publicly. I am so proud of myself. And because of all of you, it won’t be the last time. This is the beginning.”
Our impact
Their understanding of career pathways grows, as does their sense of job-readiness and preparedness.
Emerging creators develop their creative skills and have an increased sense of creative self-efficacy and confidence.
Previously emerging creators from underrepresented backgrounds become established creators with thriving careers and the ability to live off their craft as their main source of income.
The representation of diverse creators in the audio-storytelling industry increases.
Emerging creators from underrepresented communities face systemic barriers such as limited access to resources, insufficient career exposure, and a lack of networks. This can hamper their ability to breakout in the industry or make a living from their craft.
We give emerging creators the fuel they need to kick-start their careers. From financial support and creative freedom, to state-of-the-art production facilities, networks, programs, classes, skill-building and more.
Emerging creators from underrepresented communities face systemic barriers such as limited access to resources, insufficient career exposure, and a lack of networks. This can hamper their ability to breakout in the industry or make a living from their craft.
“Thank you for the awesome workshops and the opportunity to meet so many people face-to-face. Great ideas and medicine were shared, and I feel blessed to be part of such a wonderful group of storytellers.” – Participant, Indigenous Writers Circle
- Participant, Caporeira for All, Future Stories Fund Grantee
“Thank you for the awesome workshops and the opportunity to meet so many people face-to-face. Great ideas and medicine were shared, and I feel blessed to be part of such a wonderful group of storytellers.” – Participant, Indigenous Writers Circle
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
What we achieved in 2025
$1.6 million invested
$1.6 million invested
Reaching 1000+ young people globally
12 global programs
“The showcase was deeply inspiring. As a young black man, I hadn't always seen poetry as a space for me, but watching the poets share their work with such passion and energy completely changed that… Thank you for creating such a programme, and for showing me that being black and creative isn't just cool; it's incredible.”
Reaching 1000+ young people globally
Including the expansion of Future Stories Fund UK to a second region
$1.6 million invested
$1.6 million invested
$1.6 million invested
$1.6 million invested
Audience Member, Barbican Young Poets Showcase
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
Bespoke Support
Bespoke Support
Participants meet for bi-weekly workshops, receiving guidance from Jacob Sam-La Rose and external industry mentors, supporting and uplifting each other while exploring new forms of expression
Participants meet for bi-weekly workshops, receiving guidance from Jacob Sam-La Rose and external industry mentors, supporting and uplifting each other while exploring new forms of expression
1:1 mentoring
1:1 mentoring
1:1
1:1
Audible Studio recording day
Audible Studio recording day
5 showcase events
5 showcase events
5 showcase events
5 showcase events
73 hours of programming
73 hours of programming
73 hours of programming
73 hours of programming
Supportive peer network
Supportive peer network
2 Audible x LAMDA workshops on writingand performing for audio
2 Audible x LAMDA workshops on writingand performing for audio
23 emerging poets
23 emerging poets
23 emerging poets
23 emerging poets
"It’s the gift that keeps on giving—the opportunities of performance and workshop facilitation are amazing, plus meeting other poets who share professional opportunities.”
Barbican Young Poets Participant 2024/-2025
Bespoke Support
2 Audible x LAMDA workshops on writingand performing for audio
5 showcase events
73 hours of programming
73 hours of programming
5 showcase events
5 showcase events
5 showcase events
5 showcase events
73 hours of programming
Barbican Young Poets
Led by internationally celebrated poet Jacob Sam-La Rose, Barbican Young Poets provides a nurturing space where young poets from marginalised communities receive a year-long programme of support and practical experience, equipping them with the skills, opportunities and confidence to build prosperous futures.
“I hadn't given too much consideration to my vocal performance as a poet, so hearing from experts in this field was really enlightening. The session with LAMDA was incredible!”
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
Barbican Young Poets Participant 2024/-2025
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
Sundance Collab
In April 2025 Audible came together with Sundance Collab, a digital platform where creators across the globe can learn, share and connect.
Over the course of two days aspiring and established creators were guided through a live, online Audio Storytelling Intensive on the art of crafting compelling audio stories. The Intensive generated significant interest worldwide, with 200 aspiring and established audio storytellers applying. 76 participants were selected to take part in 14 hours of free expert instruction, collaboration, and industry insight covering idea development, production process, pitching and distribution.
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
95%
95% were very satisfied or satisfied with the content covered
76 participants, 52% female
76 participants, 52% female
“This was an eye-opening class that reignited my passion for storytelling. Thank you Sundance Collab and Audible for doing this!”
95%
86% would recommend the course to others
76 participants, 52% female
95%
76 participants, 52% female
100% indicated the course will help them moving forward
- Participant, Oklahoma, U.S.
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
Emerging Playwrights Fund
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
Audible’s Emerging Playwrights Fund is designed to empower early-career theatrical writers by commissioning, developing, and producing original dramatic works tailored specifically for audio.
Yilong Yiu
50 original audio plays created since 2018 with the support of the Fund
34 released on Audible
3 staged lived at Audible’s Minetta Lane Theatre in New York
Increased creative diversity, with a minimum of 50% of commissions given to artists of color and women
34 released on Audible
34 released on Audible
34 released on Audible
34 released on Audible
34 released on Audible
Increased creative diversity, with a minimum of 50% of commissions given to artists of color and women
Increased creative diversity, with a minimum of 50% of commissions given to artists of color and women
Selected playwrights supported to bring their commission to life
Selected playwrights supported to bring their commission to life
Dramaturgical support
Creative resources
Workspace
Funding
Dramaturgical support
Creative resources
Workspace
Funding
Liu is a New York-based playwright originally from Chongqing, China. As part of the Emerging Playwrights Fund his play Good Enemy was produced as an Audible Original, and premiered off Broadway at Minetta Lane Theater. It tells the story of Howard, a Chinese immigrant, confronting his past during 1980s China and his present-day relationship with his daughter in the U.S.
The program supports visionaries with distinctive voices and urgent stories, who can craft immersive fictional experiences that engage, entertain, and inspire. Applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to submit a script for consideration, with a strong emphasis on diverse voices and perspectives. Selected candidates gain access to an international platform for their work. Audible offers financial assistance, creative resources, workspace, and dramaturgical support to facilitate the audio production of each commission, and in some cases a live stage component. Now in its eighth year, the Fund has supported the creation of 50 projects, with 34 of these released on Audible and three staged live at Audible’s Minetta Lane Theatre in New York.
“It made me feel proud and confident about myself and my writing. It taught me how to express my feelings.” Participant, The Power of Voice
Listen on Audible here.
“It made me feel proud and confident about myself and my writing. It taught me how to express my feelings.” Participant, The Power of Voice
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
"Being paid for participation was brilliant and genuinely sets this programme apart. That kind of recognition of participants' time and expertise is rare and deeply appreciated."
Participant, Off-Mic Returns
- Professional development within a supportive, collaborative environment
- Comprehensive technical and accessibility support
-Access to professional studio facilities and equipment
- Industry networking opportunities and introductions
- Professional mentorship from experienced industry producers
- Creation of portfolio-worthy audio content
-Hands-on production experience across multiple audio formats
"Being paid for participation was brilliant and genuinely sets this programme apart. That kind of recognition of participants' time and expertise is rare and deeply appreciated."
Participant, Off-Mic Returns
- Professional development within a supportive, collaborative environment
- Comprehensive technical and accessibility support
-Access to professional studio facilities and equipment
- Industry networking opportunities and introductions
- Professional mentorship from experienced industry producers
- Creation of portfolio-worthy audio content
-Hands-on production experience across multiple audio formats
Off-Mic Returns
"The sound design workshop was great! Audible brought in Emma Barnaby, an award-winning audio producer, sound designer, and musician, to run the workshop. She gave us a real and honest insight into what a sound designer’s job looks like currently. She showed us her workflow, talked us through briefs and examples of her recent work. Since the workshop, I’ve been studying Pro Tools online and I’m planning to join a sound design course next year."
12 industry-ready audio specialists with hands-on production experience
3 professional-quality audio pieces
Greater diversity in the pool of audio production professionals
34 released on Audible
34 released on Audible
Off-Mic Returns Participant
47 hours of programming
47 hours of programming
In 2024, Audible teamed up with leading audio charity Multitrack to launch free workshops for underrepresented communities. The sessions provided foundational training in a variety of off-mic roles, delivered by experts and leading figures across the audio sector.
In 2025 we took things to the next level, inviting 12 graduates back to create three original audio productions across drama, documentary, and short story formats. Equality of opportunity was ensured through payment for participation, and a bursary to cover essential equipment and participation costs. Through 5 months of specialized production skills development, professional mentorship and access to professional studios, participants developed the knowledge, portfolio of content, and industry connections to take the next step in their careers.
Participant, Off-Mic Returns
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
Indigenous Writers Circle
Reaching 1000+ young people globally
Reaching 1000+ young people globally
Reaching 1000+ young people globally
2025 saw Audible Canada’s Indigenous Writers’ Circle return for its fifth year. Created to support the next wave of creatives from the First Nations, Metis, and Inuit communities, the program fuels emerging careers, and elevates the voices of Indigenous Peoples to enhance equity, and support understanding and reconciliation following centuries of systemic injustice.
21 emerging Indigenous writers supported by 7 mentors
20 workshops,
Reaching 1000+ young people globally
500 hours of support delivered, guided by the voices and leadership of Indigenous communities
“Thank you for the awesome workshops and the opportunity to meet so many people face-to-face. Great ideas and medicine were shared, and I feel blessed to be part of such a wonderful group of storytellers.”
Enhanced peer to peer engagement delivered by alumni through one-on-one support, bi-weekly meet ups and reading sessions, and quarterly newsletters
The 6-month program leverages Audible’s resources and connections to deliver immersive workshops across fictional writing, indigenous grant writing, media, AI, ekphratic writing, publishing and agenting, audio recording and narration, editing, poetry writing, narrative confidence, and voice acting. Participants learn from some of the industry’s leading creators, publishers, content managers, writers and marketers, and are paired with Indigenous mentors to guide their development and identify opportunities.
2020-25 19 participants have published works or secured book deals
- Stacie Van Every
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
Pitching Project
“I was already familiar with Audible, it’s become the benchmark for audio stories, so I knew this was a chance not only to get the project funded but to have it distributed to a wide audience… Lorrana and I are used to seeing stories from our region appropriated by outsiders, often without the care to portray our lived experience. Audible always respected our experiences and encouraged us to bring our accents, customs and realities into the story… I plan to invest in more audio projects, since Qual o Destino? will give me visibility and let me explore paths I haven’t had access to yet.”
Audible Originals first launched in Brazil in October 2024, offering a natural opportunity to support, highlight, and nurture the nation’s creative talent.
200 entries
200 entries
6 finalists invited to pitch in person
Qual o Destino?
6 finalists invited to pitch in person
Winner of Pitching Project, Qual o Destino?, tackles the issue of femicide in the regional city of Goiânia. The story is audio led, with the narrative unfolding through the conversations, podcasts and radio programs of a local taxi driver.
1 winner – ‘Qual o Destino?’ A thriller created by Mikaela Pasa and Lorrana Flores
1 winner – ‘Qual o Destino?’ A thriller created by Mikaela Pasa and Lorrana Flores
To further encourage and guide new creators, Audible also created a free 30-episode masterclass, covering every aspect of audio narrative production, from writing and performance to sound design.
1 winner – ‘Qual o Destino?’ A thriller created by Mikaela Pasa and Lorrana Flores
Mikaela Pasa, co-creator of Qual o Destino?
Meet the winner here
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Looking Forward
Audible Social Impact Report
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Activate Caring
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Activate Caring
Imagination Fuel
Our approach, and why it matters
At Audible, we believe in the power of allofus. By leveraging the genius and generosity of our employees we can achieve remarkable things for society, and for our business.
The Impact
Audible’s Commitment
Our impact
Marginalized communities benefit from our employees’ unique talents, expertise and passion
Employees feel pride in the company and engagement with our shared purpose
Audible exemplifies what a company can mean beyond what it does, differentiating itself and attracting prospective employees, creators and partners
Our People Principles
Activate Caring
Volunteering
Audible's People Principles celebrate who we are and where we've been, and guide the way we work shoulder to shoulder to enhance the lives of our millions of customers and beyond.
Audible's People Principles celebrate who we are and where we've been, and guide the way we work shoulder to shoulder to enhance the lives of our millions of customers and beyond.
Our key mechanism for Activate Caring, delivered through two channels:
Our key mechanism for Activate Caring, delivered through two channels:
Our People Principles
Activate Caring
Volunteering
Audible's People Principles celebrate who we are and where we've been, and guide the way we work shoulder to shoulder to enhance the lives of our millions of customers and beyond.
Audible's People Principles celebrate who we are and where we've been, and guide the way we work shoulder to shoulder to enhance the lives of our millions of customers and beyond.
Our key mechanism for Activate Caring, delivered through two channels:
Our key mechanism for Activate Caring, delivered through two channels:
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity. You believed in voices that often go unheard, and gave us the space to rise. I’ll never forget that. I shared my writing publicly. I am so proud of myself. And because of all of you, it won’t be the last time. This is the beginning.”
Activate Caring is something I feel when I engage with people. As the saying goes, you never forget how people make you feel, and the people I work with inspire and uplift me daily.’ Farren Roper, Senior Leader, Spectrum and Belonging, Audible
- Participant, Caporeira for All, Future Stories Fund Grantee
Activate Caring is something I feel when I engage with people. As the saying goes, you never forget how people make you feel, and the people I work with inspire and uplift me daily.’ Farren Roper, Senior Leader, Spectrum and Belonging, Audible
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Activate Caring
Imagination Fuel
What our employees achieved in 2025
‘At Audible we remember that people will invariably forget things you say, but they will rarely forget how you make them feel.’
‘At Audible we remember that people will invariably forget things you say, but they will rarely forget how you make them feel.’
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity. You believed in voices that often go unheard, and gave us the space to rise. I’ll never forget that. I shared my writing publicly. I am so proud of myself. And because of all of you, it won’t be the last time. This is the beginning.”
$1.6 million invested
$1.6 million invested
$1.6 million invested
$1.6 million invested
- Participant, Caporeira for All, Future Stories Fund Grantee
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Activate Caring
Imagination Fuel
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
Activate Caring Ambassador Program
The Activate Caring Ambassadors Program convenes a group of 8 passionate Audible employees across 6 of our global hubs, who have stepped forward to champion the Activate Caring vision.
Ambassador Spotlight:
“Since the launch of the Ambassador Program in Berlin, we have organized 11 Activate Caring initiatives, with 61 Audible employees collectively contributing over 250 hours of volunteering. Our activities have ranged from fostering literacy skills amongst children at Spreewald Primary School, to engaging in social activities with seniors at the Johanniter Family Center, and distributing meals to those in need. Our volunteering programs enable us to give back to the community while connecting with diverse realities, from underprivileged children to individuals experiencing homelessness. The empathy and generosity that our Berlin employees bring to every volunteering event are what continually inspire and drive my motivation as an Activate Caring ambassador!”
Their role spans identifying opportunities to support organizations aligned with our mission, and designing and facilitating volunteer opportunities that allow employees to contribute to global impact initiatives and localized opportunities. Their work brings our social impact mission to life in local communities, plays an important role in shaping our culture, and offers Ambassadors a unique opportunity for both professional and personal growth.
Federica Vidoni, CS Knowledge Specialist Hub Berlin, Germany
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Audible Social Impact Report
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Activate Caring
Imagination Fuel
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
Beaba Institute Audio Guide
“Having an audiobook with clear, steady, warm, and fun narration, along with soundtracks and sound effects, made all the difference. When information arrives with clarity and care, it reduces anxiety and brings people closer to their own care journey. We are immensely grateful to Audible and all the professionals and partners who made this possible. The feedback we've received from patients, families, and healthcare professionals has been filled with warmth and gratitude.”
Simone Mozzillo, Founder, Instituto Beaba
In a groundbreaking collaboration for 2025, the Audible Brazil team worked in partnership with Instituto Beaba to develop an audio guide designed to support pediatric cancer patients and their families.
“Having an audiobook with clear, steady, warm, and fun narration, along with soundtracks and sound effects, made all the difference. When information arrives with clarity and care, it reduces anxiety and brings people closer to their own care journey. We are immensely grateful to Audible and all the professionals and partners who made this possible. The feedback we've received from patients, families, and healthcare professionals has been filled with warmth and gratitude.”
“Having an audiobook with clear, steady, warm, and fun narration, along with soundtracks and sound effects, made all the difference. When information arrives with clarity and care, it reduces anxiety and brings people closer to their own care journey. We are immensely grateful to Audible and all the professionals and partners who made this possible. The feedback we've received from patients, families, and healthcare professionals has been filled with warmth and gratitude.”
Simone Mozzillo, Founder, Instituto Beaba
Simone Mozzillo, Founder, Instituto Beaba
The resource brings to life Beaba’s existing Cancer Guide, a written resource which decodes 190 oncology terms, empowering young patients to better understand their treatment. The new freely available audio version represents a significant advancement in content accessibility, especially for children and adolescents with impaired vision or reading difficulties during treatment. The year-long creative initiative engaged 60% of Audible’s Brazil team across multiple functions – marketing content, production, PR, creative and other – fostering a culture of purpose-driven work. It represents a pioneering and replicable approach to healthcare accessibility, and exemplifies how we can leverage our core capabilities to create transformative social impact.
Subtitle
Audible Social Impact Report
Imagination Next
Looking Forward
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Activate Caring
Imagination Fuel
United Kingdom
Programme Spotlight
Sundance Collab
In April 2025 Audible came together with Sundance Collab, a digital platform where creators across the globe can learn, share and connect.
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Over the course of two days aspiring and established creators were guided through a live, online Audio Storytelling Intensive on the art of crafting compelling audio stories. The Intensive generated significant interest worldwide, with 200 aspiring and established audio storytellers applying. 76 participants were selected to take part in 14 hours of free expert instruction, collaboration, and industry insight covering idea development, production process, pitching and distribution.
Over the course of two days aspiring and established creators were guided through a live, online Audio Storytelling Intensive on the art of crafting compelling audio stories. The Intensive generated significant interest worldwide, with 200 aspiring and established audio storytellers applying. 76 participants were selected to take part in 14 hours of free expert instruction, collaboration, and industry insight covering idea development, production process, pitching and distribution.
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Over the course of two days aspiring and established creators were guided through a live, online Audio Storytelling Intensive on the art of crafting compelling audio stories. The Intensive generated significant interest worldwide, with 200 aspiring and established audio storytellers applying. 76 participants were selected to take part in 14 hours of free expert instruction, collaboration, and industry insight covering idea development, production process, pitching and distribution.
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Over the course of two days aspiring and established creators were guided through a live, online Audio Storytelling Intensive on the art of crafting compelling audio stories. The Intensive generated significant interest worldwide, with 200 aspiring and established audio storytellers applying. 76 participants were selected to take part in 14 hours of free expert instruction, collaboration, and industry insight covering idea development, production process, pitching and distribution.
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Over the course of two days aspiring and established creators were guided through a live, online Audio Storytelling Intensive on the art of crafting compelling audio stories. The Intensive generated significant interest worldwide, with 200 aspiring and established audio storytellers applying. 76 participants were selected to take part in 14 hours of free expert instruction, collaboration, and industry insight covering idea development, production process, pitching and distribution.
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Targeted impact across a truly global cohort
Subtitle
Looking Forward
Audible Social Impact Report
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Next
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Looking Forward
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Looking Forward
Audible Social Impact Report
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Our 2026 Ambitions
Ambassador Spotlight:
The roadmap for 2026 is clear – continue to invest intentionally to nurture young imaginations, support creators, and reshape our industry as a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable force for good.
Ambassador Spotlight:
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Imagination Next
Imagination Next
Imagination Fuel
Imagination Fuel
Imagination Thrive
Imagination Thrive
Ambassador Spotlight:
Ambassador Spotlight:
Ambassador Spotlight:
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity. You believed in voices that often go unheard, and gave us the space to rise. I’ll never forget that. I shared my writing publicly. I am so proud of myself. And because of all of you, it won’t be the last time. This is the beginning.”
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Ambassador Spotlight:
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Ambassador Spotlight:
Ambassador Spotlight:
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
- Participant, Caporeira for All, Future Stories Fund Grantee
Cambridge based employees supported middle and high school students with after school tutoring, and through the NetPals program, which provides 1:1 STEM mentorship to 7th grade students
Subtitle
Imagination Next
Looking Forward
Audible Social Impact Report
2025 Snapshot
Who We Are
Imagination Fuel
Activate Caring
Looking Forward
Looking Forward
Looking Forward