A group of Nashville entrepreneurs just landed on Inc. Magazine’s 2026 Female Founders 500 list. The roundup highlights women leading standout companies and nonprofits across the US — and this year, seven of those businesses call Music City home.
Adele Chazin, Chazin
Founded in 2005, Chazin works with nonprofit organizations to handle accounting and other financial needs. What began as a basement startup has grown into a national firm serving mission-driven clients in more than 30 states.
Deeannah Seymour, pH-D Feminine Health
This women’s wellness brand grew from Seymour’s own experience navigating women’s health, and the company now sells products through major national retailers.
Diane Orley and Laurel Orley, Daily Crunch
Daily Crunch is a snack brand known for its sprouted almonds and nut blends, inspired by co-founder Diane Orley’s early experiments sprouting almonds at home. Flavors now range from Cherry Berry to Dill Pickle — and you may remember the company from our startups to watch in 2025 list.
If you’re hungry to support more Nashville-based businesses, bookmark this guide. | Photo via Daily Crunch
Lindsey Chrismon, Oply
Oply is a Nashville startup building an AI-powered platform designed to help homeowners manage maintenance and connect with vetted professionals.
Paige Parker, Happenstance Whiskey
Parker launched this whiskey company while pursuing her MBA at Vanderbilt after she noticed that about 40% of whiskey drinkers are women, yet very few whiskey brands are owned by women. The brand’s Founder’s Edition bourbon is aged in new American white oak barrels and blended and bottled in Nashville.
Rachel Winokur, TailorCare
TailorCare helps patients with musculoskeletal conditions navigate treatment options and connect with care that fits their needs.
Shelly Sun Berkowitz, Founder 2 Founder
Through Founder 2 Founder, entrepreneurs receive strategic guidance on a range of founder challenges, from growing their businesses to strengthening leadership teams or preparing for a sale.
