GET TO KNOW MELINDA

Melinda Herron, a dynamic entrepreneur, and CEO of 103 Collection, an innovative brand reshaping the beauty industry since 2015. Leading with a results-driven practices, Melinda's trailblazing company specializes in vegan, plant-based, and clean beauty for sensitive skin, setting new standards in skincare, haircare, beard care, and body care. Boasting a Master's in Health Care Administration and a Bachelor's in Business Management, Melinda's unique expertise fuels her commitment to cruelty-free practices, earning 103 Collection the Leaping Bunny Certification. Melinda's 2022 achievements include historic retail partnerships, notably becoming the first Black women-owned vegan beard care line at Target. Recognized by Kinder Beauty, the brand reached 42,000 potential customers in two years. Certifications from WBENC and Supplier Gateway solidify 103 Collection's prominence, emphasizing Melinda Herron's inspirational journey in reshaping the clean beauty landscape.

  • Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program

    Melinda demonstrated her dedication to business growth by successfully completing the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program. This program is renowned for providing practical business education, support services, and access to capital for entrepreneurs.

  • McKinsey 1B

    Melinda's accomplishments include participation in the McKinsey 1B program. McKinsey, a global management consulting firm, is recognized for its initiatives supporting and promoting business development and innovation.

  • Black Ambition Semi-Finalist

    Melinda Herron's entrepreneurial acumen was acknowledged as she achieved the status of being a Black Ambition Semi-Finalist Founded by Pharrell Williams. Black Ambition is an initiative that seeks to address the historical wealth gap by providing support and opportunities to Black and Latinx entrepreneurs.

  • Amazon Black Business Accelerator

    Melinda's participation in the Amazon Black Business Accelerator program signifies her engagement in a platform designed to empower and promote Black-owned businesses, fostering their growth and success on the Amazon marketplace.

  • Polsky Small Business

    Melinda's involvement in the Polsky Small Business program further attests to her commitment to small business development. The Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation is known for its support in nurturing entrepreneurial talent and fostering innovation.

  • Build Black With Shopify

    This achievement involved strategic planning, collaboration, and a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in the world of e-commerce. It not only highlights Melinda's entrepreneurial success but also her advocacy for empowering and uplifting Black-owned businesses on a major e-commerce platform like Shopify.

MOST NOTABLE FOR 2023