Top Female-Run Companies Making Waves in 2024

As we continue to progress toward gender equality in the business world, 2024 is proving to be a landmark year for female-run companies. From tech startups to established firms, women leaders are making a significant impact, breaking barriers, and setting new standards in their respective industries. Here, we highlight some of the top female-run companies that are making waves in 2024.

1. Canva – Melanie Perkins

Founded by Melanie Perkins, Canva has revolutionized the design industry by making graphic design accessible to everyone. Perkins’ vision of an easy-to-use design platform has grown Canva into a $26 billion company, with over 100 million users worldwide. Under her leadership, Canva continues to innovate with new AI-driven design tools and features that cater to a diverse user base, from students to professionals. Perkins is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, not only within her company but also in the broader tech community.

2. The Honest Company – Jessica Alba

Founded by actress Jessica Alba, The Honest Company focuses on providing safe, effective, and eco-friendly baby, personal care, and cleaning products. Alba’s commitment to transparency and sustainability has propelled the company to become a household name, reaching over $300 million in annual revenue. In 2024, The Honest Company expanded its product line to include more eco-friendly packaging options, reflecting its ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility.

3. Glossier – Emily Weiss

Emily Weiss founded Glossier with the mission to change the beauty industry by prioritizing customer feedback and community engagement. Known for its minimalist approach and cruelty-free products, Glossier has disrupted traditional beauty norms and built a cult following. In 2024, Weiss led Glossier through a significant digital transformation, enhancing their e-commerce platform and expanding their product range to meet the needs of a diverse customer base.

4. Bumble – Whitney Wolfe Herd

Whitney Wolfe Herd founded Bumble as a dating app that empowers women by allowing them to make the first move. Since its launch, Bumble has grown into a social networking platform with over 100 million users, including connections for friends and professional networking. In 2024, Wolfe Herd continues to push boundaries with initiatives aimed at combating online harassment and promoting safer digital spaces for women. Bumble’s commitment to ethical tech and user well-being sets it apart as a leader in the industry.

5. Rent the Runway – Jennifer Hyman

Jennifer Hyman co-founded Rent the Runway with the vision of democratizing fashion and making high-end clothing accessible through rentals. The company has since expanded to include a subscription model that allows users to rent everyday clothing, reducing fashion waste and promoting sustainable consumption. In 2024, Hyman continues to lead the charge in circular fashion, launching new initiatives aimed at reducing the environmental impact of the fashion industry.

These companies are more than just successful businesses; they are driving forces for change in their industries and beyond. Female-led companies not only bring diverse perspectives to the table but also prioritize inclusivity, sustainability, and community engagement, setting examples for others to follow.

Embrace Relief’s Impact on Women’s Empowerment

At Embrace Relief, our commitment to women’s empowerment goes beyond mere support; it’s about creating sustainable change by equipping women with the education, training, and resources they need to thrive. Through our innovative programs—R.I.S.E., L.E.A.R.N., K.E.E.N., and S.E.E.D.—we address the diverse challenges women face worldwide, from economic barriers to limited access to leadership opportunities. Each of these initiatives is carefully crafted to foster economic independence, enhance leadership skills, and expand educational access, empowering women to break free from cycles of poverty and discrimination.

• For more information on Embrace Relief’s women’s empowerment programs, click here.

Our R.I.S.E. program invests in the future of female educators in Tanzania, supporting them to become leaders in their communities. The L.E.A.R.N. program opens doors for Afghan girls, providing access to high school and college education from the safety of their home. K.E.E.N. focuses on entrepreneurial training in Kenya, helping women start their own businesses and achieve financial independence. S.E.E.D. empowers women in multiple countries through sustainable farming, providing livestock and training that transform lives and foster self-reliance.

By supporting Embrace Relief, you are not just making a donation—you are investing in the dreams and futures of women around the globe. Your contribution helps build a world where women have the tools to succeed, the confidence to lead, and the opportunity to create lasting change for themselves, their families, and their communities. Join us in this mission to empower women and make a tangible impact. Together, we can create a more just and equitable future for all.