9 Famous Christian Entrepreneurs to Inspire You

The business world is filled with Christian entrepreneurs who have created successful companies that inspire others. Many of these entrepreneurs are forthright about the fact that their religious beliefs are at the center of their decision-making, and their core business values include Christian ideals such as honesty and serving others.

Some famous Christian entrepreneurs include household names like Mary Kay Ash and Dolly Parton. Other examples include business leaders who have begun their entrepreneurial journey as authors and franchise owners. The following are business titans who embody Christian principles and give back to their communities.

1. Ann Voskamp - Author and Entrepreneur

Ann Voskamp is a renowned Canadian author and blogger whose poetry spreads the message of appreciation and gratitude for the simple things in life. She is also a memoirist on themes of Christian women's spirituality. Her book ‘One Thousand Gifts’ has convinced many readers to take on an attitude of thankfulness in their day-to-day activities.

Voskamp illustrates how adopting an attitude of gratitude can change a person’s relationship with God. Apart from writing, Voskamp has a supportive online space where individuals can discuss their faith experiences with one another. This safe online environment encourages contemplation and advocates for practical expressions of faith.

2. Mary Kay Ash - Founder of Mary Kay Cosmetics

Mary Kay Ash (d. Nov 22, 2001) was a business owner and the leader of the world’s largest direct-selling cosmetics company. She made a decision to establish her own business in 1963 after facing challenges in a male-dominated business environment. Mary Kay Ash made it her mission to motivate women to generate income and expand their business ventures.

Mary Kay’s business model is a working manifestation of her Christian faith. She advocated for a servant-leadership mindset, the idea that empowering others will lead to success. Her business strategies have always been accompanied by ethical practices, which have continued with the brand’s current efforts to minimize its carbon footprint.

3. Truett Cathy - Founder of Chick-fil-A

Truett Cathy founded Chick-fil-A and built a brand using Christian principles. A number of policies were put in place including a ban on business operations on Sundays. Cathy was also adamant about treating his employees and customers well.

These faith-based attributes became the pillars of the Chick-fil-A experience. The process also helped grow the brand into a fast-food giant that generated huge success. Although Cathy passed away in 2014, the Christian values he instilled in the company live on. 

4. Dolly Parton - Country Music Icon

Dolly Parton embodies a successful entrepreneur. She is known for her music but has also ventured into movie writing and is the creator and founder of Dollywood. Dolly Parton is very candid about her Christian beliefs and practices.

Dolly Parton grew up in the church and learnt from an early age that through God all things are possible. She carried her faith into her adult life and is involved in a number of philanthropic efforts. One of her most recognizable humanitarian efforts is her Imagination Library program, which encourages literacy among children.

5. David Green - CEO of Hobby Lobby

David Green is one of the most influential Christian entrepreneurs today. He has built a business empire as the co-founder of Hobby Lobby, a successful arts and crafts retail chain. David Green is firm in his Christian faith, with a quest to express his beliefs through his business activities.

For example, he and his wife Barbara live on 10% of their income, and the rest of the funds go to Christian-based charities. This type of action demonstrates Green's commitment to faith-oriented stewardship. Green also provides his employees with fair wages and benefits and closes all stores on Sundays for worship.

6. Blake Mycoskie - Founder of TOMS Shoes

Blake Mycoskie founded TOMS Shoes and transformed the footwear industry with a mission to give back. When Blake traveled to Argentina in 2006, he witnessed intense poverty and many children growing up without shoes. He decided to found a business that was committed to donating shoes to the Barefoot Children.

TOMS created 'One for One,' where for every shoe bought, the brand would give away a shoe to a child from a third-world country. This kind of altruistic approach was inspired by Blake's Christian faith and desire to encourage conscious consumerism. TOMS Shoes is now one of the most successful footwear companies due to its unique business model.

7. Carla Harris - Wall Street Executive

Carla Harris is the Vice Chairman at Morgan Stanley and is considered one of the top aspiring Christian entrepreneurs. She is a prominent business executive, author, and motivational speaker. Carla Harris successfully weaves elements from the Bible into all of her business endeavors.

Harris openly explains how her faith guides her through her work and influences her personal values. She believes that one's success in business is intricately intertwined with one's commitment to serving others. Harris motivates people to develop their spiritual lives along with their professional aspirations, proving that spirituality can be a great motivator.

8. Joyce Meyer - Author and Motivational Speaker

Joyce Meyer is the president and founder of Joyce Meyer Ministries, a Christian-based non-profit organization. She is also a New York best-selling author and inspirational speaker. She inspires audiences with speeches about hope and overcoming obstacles. 

Christian principles, like the value of honesty and self-responsibility, largely inspire Joyce’s dedication to the ministry's activities. Joyce continues to change the lives of millions of people across the globe with her teachings.

9. Beth Moore - Evangelist, Author, and Bible Teacher

Beth Moore is an esteemed writer and Bible teacher who runs Living Proof Ministries. She is committed to educating and promoting the Christian faith through Bible studies and seminars. Moore has persuaded many women to love the Word of God.

Moore encourages women to stand strong and move on despite life’s challenges. She exemplifies the idea that a faith-driven approach can lead to personal fulfillment and have a positive impact on the lives of others. 

An Intersection of Faith and Business

Christian business leaders are a testimony that faith can significantly affect the way businesses are run. 

Mary Kay Ash, Truett Cathy, and Dolly Parton exemplify how Christian principles have been embodied in their for-profit work. Their vision of serving others and implementing ethical business practices has made their businesses a powerful force for positive change in the world.

Entrepreneurs such as Joyce Meyer, Beth Moore, and Carla Harris teach us that we need to have unwavering faith and let our faith be the basis of our decision-making. These leaders motivate aspiring entrepreneurs to achieve business success while staying true to the Christian faith. 

Christian leaders also show us that success in business is not just about profit but also about making a difference in the lives of others. Join our family and request details about our membership options for more insights about successfully combining Biblical wisdom with business acumen.