The $30 Million Turnaround No One Saw Coming
Who Is Grant Allaway?
Grant Allaway is the founder of AD2ONE, a global online advertising agency that grew from a near-bankrupt operation in 2000 to a $30 million business with offices in London and Sydney. AD2ONE now stands as Australia’s largest online ad agency, representing major clients like eBay, Disney, and Ford.
What Makes This Story Remarkable?
Allaway didn’t start from a position of strength. In fact, he took over AD2ONE by assuming £150,000 in debt when the dotcom bubble collapsed. Even more compelling is his personal backstory — he lost both parents in a car accident at just 12 years old.
“I’ve always thought I had all my bad luck all at once,” he says. From there, he used sheer determination, sales skill, and timing to transform a struggling agency into a multinational success story.
How Did AD2ONE Grow to $30 Million?
Allaway and his business partner focused on pairing reputable brands with top-tier advertising opportunities across the web. They secured accounts with global brands and leveraged the rise of online advertising during economic downturns to rapidly grow revenue.
- Won major clients like eBay, Disney, Discovery Channel
- Expanded operations to Australia, representing sites like Lonely Planet and Expedia
- Capitalized on recession-era shifts from print to digital advertising
From Orphan to Entrepreneur
Allaway’s early life was rocked by tragedy, but it fueled his ambition. Despite squandering a £200,000 trust fund by the age of 21, he rebuilt himself in the sales world. His career began with cold-calling for photography packages before transitioning into media and eventually, online advertising.
His First Million—and Beyond
Allaway made his first million in 2005 when AD2ONE turned a $3 million profit. Since then, the company has seen exponential growth, becoming a leader in the digital advertising space, especially in Australia.
His story proves that smart risk-taking, strategic partnerships, and a clear value proposition can turn even a failing business into a global enterprise.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
- Start where others see failure — Allaway took over a company deep in debt.
- Timing matters — He capitalized on the digital shift during a recession.
- Always be selling — His sales background was the foundation of success.
- Choose clients wisely — Big brands attract more big brands.
- Personal discipline matters — Despite early spending, he learned to grow wealth responsibly.
What’s Next for Grant Allaway?
With AD2ONE firmly established, Allaway continues to lead in digital innovation, while balancing work with family life. His story remains a prime example of how personal hardship can fuel business greatness.
