Unveiling Forbes’ 2024 Powerhouse: America’s Richest Self-Made Women

In a groundbreaking year, the combined wealth of America’s Richest Self-Made Women skyrocketed nearly 25% to an astounding 4 billion.

This post originally appeared on Forbes by Kerry A. Dolan and Andrea Murphy, Forbes Staff.

This impressive leap reflects the unwavering determination and entrepreneurial prowess of these exceptional women, with a significant 35% increase in the minimum net worth required to secure a spot on the prestigious list.

Their paths to prosperity are as diverse as their backgrounds, spanning industries from pizza and packaging to pop music. The majority, nearly three-fourths, have built their fortunes by founding or co-founding companies, while 22 of them hold the title of chief executive. The booming stock market has also played a crucial role in this remarkable wealth surge.

Diane Hendricks leads the pack for the seventh consecutive year, with her fortune swelling from $15 billion to an impressive $20.9 billion. Among the list’s members, Elizabeth Uihlein experienced the most significant percentage gain, with her net worth rising 81% to $6.7 billion.

This year’s list welcomes several notable newcomers, including singer Katy Perry, whiskey entrepreneur Fawn Weaver, and seasoned money manager Joan Payden. Additionally, the roster now boasts a record-breaking 31 billionaires, with powerhouses like Taylor Swift and Sheila Johnson joining the ranks.

While most saw their fortunes grow exponentially, ten members, including Whitney Wolfe Herd of Bumble, experienced declines. Eleven women who made last year’s list, such as Anne Wojcicki of 23andMe, have dropped off the radar.

The list highlights the extraordinary accomplishments of women across various industries, mirroring not only their indomitable entrepreneurial spirit but also the economic trends that have propelled their businesses to unprecedented heights.

Read the full post by Kerry A. Dolan and Andrea Murphy over at Forbes.