In celebration of the remarkable achievements of successful businesswomen, we’ve curated a list spotlighting the globe’s most accomplished female entrepreneurs. These exceptional women built profitable enterprises and paved the way for other aspiring female entrepreneurs in their industries. As Oprah Winfrey once said, “Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another stepping stone to greatness.” It’s inspiring to note that women-owned businesses are proliferating, with statistics showing a 21% increase in the number of women-owned firms in the past five years alone.
The Power of Women and Women Entrepreneurship
In a world historically dominated by male entrepreneurs, the rise of successful women in business is undeniably inspiring. These trailblazers have shattered stereotypes, overcome challenges, and reshaped the entrepreneurship landscape. From adversity to triumph, their journeys offer invaluable lessons and motivation for aspiring entrepreneurs and women everywhere.
In the United States, women have played a significant role in the surge of entrepreneurship, leading nearly half of all new companies established in 2022. This statistic underscores women’s growing influence and impact in the business realm.
These women exemplify how determination and a genuine passion for their goals can overcome even the most daunting obstacles to entrepreneurial success. Their life narratives testify to the boundless opportunities awaiting those who dare to dream big and relentlessly pursue their aspirations.
As Oprah Winfrey once said, “The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams.” In recognition of these accomplished businesswomen, we’ve curated a list celebrating their remarkable achievements. These extraordinary women built profitable enterprises and paved the way for countless other female entrepreneurs in their respective industries.
Who Are the Female Entrepreneurs Who Changed the World?
Women entrepreneurs have been paving the path for decades, from Estée Lauder, who launched her cosmetics company in the 1940s, to Ruth Fertel, the founder of Ruth’s Chris Steak House. These women have persevered to excel despite economic and business pressures.
Today, the list of successful women entrepreneurs spans various industries. Here are 11 of the most influential women entrepreneurs who have left a significant mark in recent decades. While this list is not exhaustive and in no particular order, it aims to recognize women who have built globally recognized brands through hard work and unwavering determination.
Entrepreneur Women’s Key Qualities
What sets these women apart as remarkable entrepreneurs? Let’s explore the essential qualities that drive their business success:
- Integrity and Trust: These entrepreneurs prioritize integrity, maintaining moral standards, and honoring commitments. By fostering trust among employees, investors, partners, and customers, they establish a values-based corporate culture centered on ethical leadership.
- Honesty and Lifelong Learning: Successful women entrepreneurs recognize entrepreneurship as a continuous journey. They remain humble and embrace constant learning to adapt to the ever-evolving business landscape, always striving to improve themselves.
- Resilience and Perseverance: Despite facing complex challenges and interruptions, these women display unwavering determination and resilience, essential for navigating the entrepreneurial journey and achieving success.
- Emotional Intelligence and Intuition: Leveraging strong intuition alongside data, these entrepreneurs make informed decisions and easily navigate business highs and lows. They excel in understanding their teams and fostering positive work environments.
- Adaptability and Informed Action: Women entrepreneurs blend informed action with a deep understanding of their market, industry, and clientele. Their ability to anticipate shifts in the business landscape and embrace innovation sets them apart in today’s rapidly evolving world.
- Effective Communication: Naturally adept at speaking and listening, these entrepreneurs prioritize communication as the cornerstone of effective leadership. They motivate and connect with others by keenly observing nonverbal cues and emotions.
- Empathy: With a natural inclination towards empathy, these women create supportive workplaces that value each employee’s unique circumstances. Their recognition and appreciation of diversity foster solid bonds and employee loyalty.
These qualities are exemplified by a diverse array of successful female entrepreneurs who have contributed significantly to various industries. While this list is not exhaustive, it aims to honor those who have built globally recognized brands through hard work and determination. As Madam C.J. Walker once said, “I had to make my living and my opportunity! But I made it! Don’t sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them.”
Zhang Xin
Zhang Xin, renowned as “the woman who built Beijing,” is the co-founder of SOHO China, a prominent real estate development firm that debuted on the public market in 2007. Her journey to success is a testament to resilience and determination.
Born and raised in China, Zhang Xin began her career as a factory worker. However, fueled by ambition and a hunger for knowledge, she pursued higher education, eventually earning a master’s degree in economic development from Cambridge University.
After completing her studies, Zhang Xin ventured into finance, where she gained valuable experience working for Goldman Sachs. Armed with her expertise and a vision for transformative urban development, she co-founded SOHO China.
Under Zhang Xin’s leadership, SOHO China has emerged as a powerhouse in the real estate industry, spearheading innovative projects that redefine city skylines and urban landscapes. The company’s successful public offering in 2007 marked a milestone in its journey to becoming a leading Chinese real estate market player.
Today, Zhang Xin’s entrepreneurial acumen has propelled her to heights, earning her a fortune estimated at $2.8 billion. Her story inspires aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide, illustrating the power of perseverance, ambition, and strategic vision in achieving remarkable success.
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw is not just the founder but the visionary force behind Biocon, a globally recognized biopharmaceutical company. Her entrepreneurial journey began in a humble rented shed, where she laid the foundation for what would become India’s largest listed biopharma firm in revenue.
Biocon’s trajectory under Mazumdar-Shaw’s leadership has been nothing short of remarkable. The company made history in 2004 when it went public, becoming only the second Indian company to achieve a staggering $1 billion valuation on its first trading day. This milestone solidified Biocon’s position as a trailblazer in the biopharmaceutical industry and marked the beginning of its ascent to global prominence.
As an Indian entrepreneur, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw’s relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation has propelled Biocon to unparalleled heights. Today, the company is a beacon of success and ingenuity in biopharmaceuticals, with a diverse portfolio of groundbreaking products and a strong presence in international markets.
In recognition of her outstanding achievements, Mazumdar-Shaw has earned a well-deserved place as India’s second wealthiest self-made woman, trailing only behind Nykaa founder Falguni Nayar. According to Forbes, her net worth stands at an impressive $2.1 billion as of February 2023.
Mazumdar-Shaw’s remarkable story inspires aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide, underscoring the transformative power of vision, determination, and unwavering commitment to excellence in achieving extraordinary success.
Janice Bryant Howroyd
Janice Bryant Howroyd, a pioneering entrepreneur, is the founder and CEO of ActOne Group, making history as the first Black female-led company to surpass $1 billion in annual revenue. ActOne, headquartered in Los Angeles, operates primarily as an employment agency and consultancy, serving over 17,000 clients across 33 countries.
Howroyd’s entrepreneurship journey to success is a testament to her tenacity and vision. Despite humble beginnings, she boldly launched her company in 1978 with a mere $1,500. Since then, ActOne has experienced exponential growth, establishing itself as a leader in its industry and breaking barriers along the way.
For her remarkable achievements, Howroyd has earned a well-deserved place among Forbes’ America’s Richest Self-Made Women for 2022. Her entrepreneurial prowess and dedication to excellence inspire aspiring business leaders worldwide.
Beyoncé
Beyoncé, a multifaceted artist and business mogul, rose to fame as a member of Destiny’s Child in the mid-1990s before establishing herself as one of the top-selling female solo artists in the world. Beyond her music career, Beyoncé, or Queen Bey, has evolved into a global brand, leveraging her immense talent and influence across various industries.
In 2012, Beyoncé inked a groundbreaking $50 million endorsement deal with PepsiCo, solidifying her status as a powerful force in the business world. Under Parkwood Entertainment’s company, Beyoncé has expanded her reach to produce music, movies, and clothing lines, showcasing her versatility and entrepreneurial spirit.
In a testament to her influence, Beyoncé secured a monumental $60 million contract with Netflix in 2019, further cementing her position as a content creator and provider for the streaming service.
According to Forbes, Beyoncé’s net worth as of February 2023 stands at an impressive $450 million. Her remarkable success inspires aspiring entrepreneurs and artists alike, demonstrating the limitless possibilities that come with talent, dedication, and strategic business acumen.
Tory Burch
Tory Burch, the visionary behind her eponymous company, launched her U.S.-based clothing and fashion line in 2004, propelling herself into the forefront of the fashion industry. Since its inception, the Tory Burch brand has achieved remarkable success, boasting an impressive annual revenue of $1.5 billion.
In addition to her thriving business endeavors, Tory Burch has garnered recognition for her influential impact on fashion and entrepreneurship. In 2022, she was honored in Forbes’ prestigious 50 Over 50 (Lifestyle) and America’s Self-Made Women lists, solidifying her status as a trailblazer.
Beyond her business achievements, this woman entrepreneur is deeply committed to giving back. In a testament to her philanthropic spirit, she founded the Tory Burch Foundation, which is dedicated to empowering and supporting women entrepreneurs on their journey to success.
Tory Burch’s multifaceted success story inspires aspiring entrepreneurs and fashion enthusiasts worldwide. It highlights the transformative power of passion, innovation, and philanthropy in achieving extraordinary success.
Sara Blakely
Sara Blakely didn’t plan to build a billion-dollar company. She just wanted a better option for what to wear under white pants. That’s it. So, with $5,000 and no fashion background, she cut the feet off her pantyhose and figured she’d try to sell the idea.
She got told “no” over and over. No investors wanted in. Stores didn’t get it. But she kept pushing, did everything herself, and eventually Oprah mentioned Spanx on her show and endorsed her products, and things exploded.
From there, it snowballed. Spanx became a household name. It’s now sold in more than 50 countries. She never took a significant investment early on, which gave her complete control. That mattered.
But she didn’t just build a business. She launched a foundation to support women, gave $5 million to women-owned businesses during COVID, and started the Red Backpack Fund, providing $5k grants to hundreds of women founders.
She made Time’s 100 list, showed up on Shark Tank, and Forbes listed her as one of the most powerful women in the world. In 2021, Blackstone bought a majority stake in Spanx for $1.2B. After the deal, she gave her employees first-class tickets and $10,000 each. Because she could, and she wanted to.
She didn’t follow anyone’s playbook. She trusted her gut, did it her way, and didn’t wait for permission. That’s the story.
Oprah Winfrey
Oprah Winfrey, the legendary media mogul, embodies the resilient spirit of entrepreneurship. Despite being raised in a low-income family in Mississippi by her single mother, Oprah refused to let her circumstances define her destiny. She kicked off her career as a television personality, gradually expanding her media empire over time.
Facing past traumas, including childhood abuse, Oprah persevered, diving into her television career at just 19 as a neighborhood news anchor. Her confident presence on screen propelled her forward, eventually leading to her iconic daytime talk show.
In a bold move, in 1998, Oprah co-founded Oxygen Media alongside esteemed industry figures. Her relentless drive didn’t stop there. Alongside her talk show, she ventured into cable television with the launch of OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, assuming the CEO role.
In a surprising shift, Oprah delved into health and wellness in 2015, investing in Weight Watchers International and becoming a dedicated advocate for the renowned weight loss program.
Her financial triumphs mirror her profound influence in the media and business spheres. Forbes valued her net worth at $2.8 billion in February 2023, solidifying her status as a trailblazing figure in entrepreneurship and media.
Arianna Huffington
Arianna Huffington, a renowned Greek-American author, columnist, and entrepreneur, is a visionary in digital media. She catapulted The Huffington Post into prominence, reshaping the online news landscape since its launch in 2005.
Under Arianna’s leadership, The Huffington Post flourished, ultimately catching the eye of AOL, which acquired it in 2011. However, Arianna’s drive didn’t halt with the acquisition; she continued to expand the Huffington brand’s global footprint.
Recognizing her impact, Time Magazine named Arianna among the world’s 100 most influential people in 2011, affirming her unwavering commitment to innovation in the media industry.
In 2016, Arianna embarked on a new venture, departing from The Huffington Post to establish Thrive Global, a startup that promotes health and wellness worldwide. As CEO, Arianna is responsible for inspiring a global movement toward well-being.
Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors, Arianna is a prolific author, with 15 books, each reflecting her insights and dedication to positive change.
Arianna Huffington’s journey exemplifies the power of one individual to shape the media landscape and drive meaningful change. Her steadfast independence and unwavering convictions have solidified her as a beacon of success in female entrepreneurship. With an estimated net worth of $100 million, Arianna’s remarkable achievements and influence continue to leave an indelible mark on the business world.
Lynda Resnick: A Life Built on Bold Moves and Big Ideas
Lynda Resnick didn’t follow a traditional path. She left college at 19, not because she had to, but because she wanted something different. That decision led her to start her advertising agency, long before it was common for women to strike out on their own in business. It also led her to Stewart Resnick.
Stewart needed help with marketing for his business. Lynda had the skills and the drive. What started as a working relationship eventually turned into something more personal. By the 1960s, after a complicated divorce, Lynda became Stewart’s partner, first in business, then in life.
Together, they built what would become The Wonderful Company. It’s not a small operation. It has over $10.6 billion in annual revenue, and it includes brands like Fiji Water, POM Wonderful, and Teleflora. Their reach stretches from California’s Central Valley to the citrus groves of Texas. But behind all that scale is a very personal story of hands-on leadership and long-term vision.
Lynda has often been seen as one of the few high-profile female entrepreneurs in a male-dominated industry. She’s not just involved, she’s intensely active in shaping the direction of the company.
But the story doesn’t end with business success. Together, the Resnicks have pledged more than $2 billion toward causes they care about, including education and climate research. They’ve built a fortune, yes, but they’ve also made a point to give a lot of it back.
Their journey wasn’t scripted. It was messy, ambitious, and driven by instinct. And that’s probably why it worked.
Lynda Resnick exemplifies entrepreneurship, boasting a remarkable net worth of $5.6 billion. Her drive, philanthropic ethos, and business acumen inspire, underscoring her unwavering pursuit of excellence in business and philanthropy. Despite her towering achievements, she remains a woman driven by a relentless quest for more significant impact and innovation.
Indra Nooyi
Originally from Chennai, India, Indra Nooyi has carved an impressive career path as an Indian-American businesswoman and PepsiCo’s former CEO and chair. Her impact transcends corporate leadership, as she’s also a renowned author and a trailblazer in an arena where few women have ascended to the top.
Nooyi’s journey took her from India to Yale, where she earned her MBA. This laid the groundwork for her remarkable ascent to become one of the few female CEOs in corporate America in 2006. Joining Amazon’s board in 2019 further solidified her influence in the industry.
Recognized as one of the most prominent figures among Indian female entrepreneurs, Nooyi has consistently been ranked among the world’s 100 most powerful women, a testament to her enduring influence.
Her tenure at PepsiCo, which began in 1994, culminated in her appointment as President and Chief Financial Officer in 2001. Before working at PepsiCo, she held several senior positions across various corporate domains.
Nooyi’s exceptional business achievements have earned her the prestigious Padma Bhushan award, inspiring countless individuals in India and worldwide. With deals totaling an astounding $30 billion in recent years, her unwavering determination and keen business acumen are undeniable.
With an estimated net worth of $350 million, Indra Nooyi’s story serves as a beacon of ambition, innovation, and leadership, showcasing the profound impact one individual can make in the corporate world and beyond.
Rihanna
At just 35 years old, Rihanna, a proud native of Barbados and a global sensation, has achieved billionaire status, making her the youngest woman to reach this milestone. Renowned as one of the most iconic vocalists of the twenty-first century, Rihanna’s rise to fame began with her signing to Def Jam in 2005, followed by the release of her first two studio albums, A Girl Like Me (2006) and Music of the Sun (2005), both of which showcased her Caribbean roots and soared to the top ten of the US Billboard 200 chart.
The remarkable success of Fenty Beauty, valued at $1.7 billion, largely contributes to Rihanna’s astounding wealth. But her business prowess extends beyond cosmetics, as she also holds a stake in Savage X Fenty, a lingerie line supported by multiple investors.
In addition to her entrepreneurial ventures, Rihanna is deeply committed to philanthropy through the Clara Lionel Foundation, which raised an impressive $47 million in 2020 to support crucial causes such as climate change, racial justice, and COVID-19 relief efforts.
As a multi-talented artist, Rihanna captivated audiences with her electrifying halftime performance at Super Bowl LVII in 2023, where she also revealed her second pregnancy, further highlighting her global influence and impact.
With a net worth of $1.4 billion as of February 2023, Rihanna’s achievements have earned her well-deserved recognition on Forbes’ “Power Women” and “America’s Richest Self-Made Women” lists for 2022. Her journey exemplifies her exceptional talent, resilience, and unwavering commitment to making a positive difference.
Who Are the Top Women Entrepreneurs in Entertainment?
In the entertainment industry, several women entrepreneurs have made significant impacts with their innovative ventures and creative endeavors. Beyoncé, a powerhouse in the music industry, stands out for her chart-topping hits and her ventures in fashion, film, and philanthropy. Through her company, Parkwood Entertainment, Beyoncé has produced acclaimed albums, movies, and documentaries, showcasing her multifaceted talent and entrepreneurial vision. Similarly, Rihanna has emerged as a force to be reckoned with, not only as a chart-topping singer but also as a successful businesswoman with her Fenty Beauty, Fenty fashion line, and Savage X Fenty lingerie brand, revolutionizing the beauty and fashion industries while championing diversity and inclusion.
In addition to Beyoncé and Rihanna, Oprah Winfrey has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry as a media mogul, television host, and producer. From her groundbreaking talk show, “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” to her multimedia empire, OWN, Oprah has redefined storytelling and shaped the cultural landscape for decades. With her influence extending beyond entertainment into publishing, philanthropy, and advocacy, Oprah continues to inspire and empower audiences worldwide, solidifying her legacy as one of the top women entrepreneurs in entertainment.
Who Are Notable Women Entrepreneurs?
Notable women entrepreneurs have made remarkable contributions across various industries. Oprah Winfrey, Sara Blakely, and Indra Nooyi are known for their influential media empires, innovative shapewear brands, and strategic leadership in the food and beverage sector, respectively. Other notable figures include Beyoncé, Tory Burch, and Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, who have built global brands in music, fashion, and biopharmaceuticals, showcasing their entrepreneurial prowess and dedication to success. These women inspire others with their achievements, demonstrating the transformative power of vision, resilience, and determination in entrepreneurship.
Janice Bryant Howroyd, Rihanna, and Zhang Xin are notable women entrepreneurs. Howroyd founded ActOne Group, becoming the first Black woman to own a billion-dollar business, while Rihanna has expanded her success beyond music into beauty, fashion, and philanthropy. Zhang Xin has left her mark on China’s real estate landscape with her company, SOHO China. These women exemplify the diversity and strength of female entrepreneurship, inspiring others with their innovation, leadership, and commitment to making a difference in the world.
The Bottom Line: Women’s Entrepreneurship
“In the business world, these remarkable women have left an indelible mark, showcasing the power of innovation and resilience. Their journeys serve as a testament to the belief that dreams can become reality with perseverance and hard work,” said Oprah Winfrey.
Their stories defy stereotypes, proving that success knows no bounds of gender, age, or background. It thrives on the resilience, creativity, and relentless pursuit of one’s passions.
Beyond their achievements, these women inspire us with their unwavering commitment to social impact, mentorship, and philanthropy.
Yet, entrepreneurship comes with its share of challenges, with administrative chaos being one of the most significant hurdles. If you’re a female entrepreneur navigating the path to success, Aristo Sourcing is here for you! Reach out for our transformative virtual assistant services through a complimentary consultation.