Eloquii founder Mariah Chase wanted to fill a hole in the fashion industry — stores were selling clothes that fit women in larger sizes, but the offerings weren't very, well, fashionable. Chase took this idea and turned it into a full-sized fashion powerhouse that Walmart snapped up in 2018 for $100 million.

Success didn't come easy, said Chase, particularly as a female founder. "There's a level of grit and resilience you need, both to operate in this kind of market, with these dynamics, as well as raise capital," she explained.  

A great network, supportive board, and engaged investors helped Eloquii get through some tough moments. Now that she is on the other side, investing in new companies, Chase shared tips about what she looks for before committing funds to new companies.

Share:
More In Business
Small grocers and convenience stores feel an impact as customers go without SNAP benefits
Some small grocery stores and neighborhood convenience stores are eager for the U.S. government shutdown to end and for their customers to start receiving federal food aid again. Late last month, the Trump administration froze funding for the SNAP benefits that about 42 million Americans use to buy groceries. The U.S. Department of Agriculture says about 74% of the assistance was spent last year at superstores like Walmart and supermarkets like Kroger. Around 14% went to smaller stores that are more accessible to SNAP beneficiaries. A former director of the United Nations World Food Program says SNAP is not only a social safety net for families but a local economic engine that supports neighborhood businesses.
Load More