Explore the top 10 Black women entrepreneurs, their net worth, and the inspiring journeys that led to their success.

Black women have been making significant strides in the entrepreneurial world, breaking barriers and setting new standards of excellence. As the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in the United States, their influence spans various industries, from media and beauty to technology and finance. In this article, we celebrate the Top Black Female Executives, highlighting their remarkable achievements and the impact they’ve made.

1. Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey, a name synonymous with success, is the first African American billionaire. She revolutionized daytime television with The Oprah Winfrey Show and has built a media empire that includes magazines, radio, and satellite TV. Oprah’s net worth is an impressive $3 billion.

“Create the highest, grandest vision possible for your life because you become what you believe.”
— Oprah Winfrey

Oprah’s journey from a challenging childhood to global acclaim is a testament to her resilience and unwavering determination.

2. Cathy Hughes

Cathy Hughes

Cathy Hughes is the founder of Radio One, the largest black-owned media company in America. With a net worth ranging between $450 million and $500 million, she has been a trailblazer in amplifying black voices through media.

“I’m in the Black people business.”
— Cathy Hughes

Her vision was not just to build a business but to create a community platform for black Americans.

3. Janice Bryant Howroyd

Janice Bryant Howroyd

As the founder and CEO of ACT-1 Group, Janice Bryant Howroyd has built the largest minority woman-owned employment agency in the United States. Her net worth exceeds $600 million.

“Never compromise who you are personally to become who you wish to be professionally.”
— Janice Bryant Howroyd

Janice’s journey from a segregated town in North Carolina to a business magnate underscores her resilience and integrity.

4. Sheila Johnson

Sheila Johnson

Sheila Johnson, co-founder of Black Entertainment Television (BET), is the first Black woman in the U.S. to reach a net worth exceeding $1 billion. She also holds stakes in three professional sports teams.

“Don’t let anyone else define you. You define yourself.”
— Sheila Johnson

Sheila’s ability to reinvent herself and her ventures highlights her inspiring leadership and passion.

5. Rihanna

Rihanna

Rihanna became the youngest female billionaire in the world with her beauty and lingerie brands, Fenty and Savage X Fenty. Her net worth stands at an impressive $1.4 billion.

“There’s something so special about a woman who dominates in a man’s world.”
— Rihanna

Rihanna’s strategic market insights and fearless approach have redefined inclusivity in beauty and fashion.

6. Beyoncé Knowles-Carter

Beyoncé Knowles-Carter

With a net worth of approximately $800 million, Beyoncé has built a multifaceted empire encompassing music, fashion, and film production.

“Power means happiness; power means hard work and sacrifice.”
— Beyoncé Knowles-Carter

Beyoncé exemplifies the synergy of artistry and entrepreneurship, setting new benchmarks for success.

7. Shonda Rhimes

Shonda Rhimes

Shonda Rhimes, founder of Shondaland, has revolutionized television with hits like Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal. Her net worth is estimated at $140 million.

“The secret sauce of the business that I can offer is my creativity.”
— Shonda Rhimes

Her dedication to storytelling and diversity has made her a powerhouse in entertainment.

8. Lisa Price

Lisa Price

Founder of Carol’s Daughter, Lisa Price turned her Brooklyn kitchen creations into a multimillion-dollar beauty brand. While her net worth remains undisclosed, her impact on the beauty industry is undeniable.

“You don’t have to have everything all figured out to be successful.”
— Lisa Price

Lisa emphasizes wealth creation and generational legacy, inspiring many Black women entrepreneurs.

9. Emma Grede

Emma Grede

Emma Grede, co-founder of Good American and SKIMS, boasts a net worth of over $300 million. She also chairs The Fifteen Percent Pledge, promoting Black-owned brands.

“If I am not a little bit scared about what I’m doing, then I’m not growing.”
— Emma Grede

Emma’s relentless hustle and bravery have positioned her as a leading figure in fashion and business.

10. Melissa Butler

Melissa Butler

Melissa Butler founded The Lip Bar, a vegan makeup brand that challenges industry norms. Her net worth is currently undisclosed, but her influence is significant.

“I’m not here to be pretty. I’m here to disrupt.”
— Melissa Butler

Melissa’s mission to enhance diversity and representation in cosmetics has made her a trailblazer in the beauty industry.

Beyond the Top 10: Influential Black Businesswomen

Ursula Burns

The first Black woman to lead a Fortune 500 company, Ursula Burns transformed Xerox during her tenure and serves on the boards of major corporations like Uber and ExxonMobil.

Bozoma Saint John

A marketing visionary, Bozoma has shaped brand strategies for Apple Music, Uber, Netflix, and Pepsi, blending data-driven decisions with authentic storytelling.

Thasunda Brown Duckett

As CEO of TIAA, Thasunda Brown Duckett champions financial literacy and inclusion, advocating for the closure of the racial wealth gap.

Inspiring Young Black Female Entrepreneurs

Mikaila Ulmer

Founder of Me & the Bees Lemonade at age 4, Mikaila’s business supports bee conservation and highlights the importance of entrepreneurship from a young age.

Marley Dias

At 11, Marley Dias launched the #1000BlackGirlBooks campaign, collecting books that feature Black female protagonists to promote diversity in literature.

How to Support Black Female Entrepreneurs

Supporting Black female entrepreneurs goes beyond purchasing products. It involves amplifying their voices, redistributing opportunities, and fostering generational wealth. Here are ways you can contribute:

Black Female Owned Businesses:
Savage X Fenty – Founded by Rihanna, celebrates all bodies and identities.
Partake Foods – Denise Woodard’s allergen-free snacks.
Little Omo – Desriee Asomuyide’s educational tools for children.
Join Black-Owned Ecosystems:
Black Girl Ventures – Provides capital and community for Black and Brown women founders.
Buy From a Black Woman – Connects consumers with Black women-owned businesses.
Share and Advocate:
Follow Black businesswomen on social media.
Share their products and write reviews.
Introduce them to your network to enhance visibility and opportunities.

Conclusion

These Top Black Female Executives exemplify the power of vision, resilience, and creativity. Their stories inspire countless others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse business landscape.

Ready to be inspired by more incredible Black British women entrepreneurs? Join our community and share your story today!