Inc. Names Arana Hankin-Biggers to Its 2025 Female Founders 500 List

Inc., the leading media brand and playbook for the entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping our future, today announced its eighth annual Female Founders, honoring a bold group of 500 women whose innovations and ideas are leading their industries forward. These resilient entrepreneurs expressed grit and drive to collectively attract approximately $9 billion in 2024 revenue and $10.6 billion in funding.

Each year, Inc. editors review thousands of applications highlighting female founders who are challenging the status quo and tackling some of the world’s biggest problems, and they cull applicants through three rounds of judging, looking specifically at an entrepreneur’s bona fides in the past year. Criteria include quantifiable metrics such as revenue, sales, revenue growth, funding, and audience size. Inc. also looks for qualitative metrics, including social media momentum and stories of impact.

Honoree selection is also honed through the evaluation of the program’s advisory board: Cate Luzio, founder and CEO of Luminary; Dany Garcia, founder, CEO, and chairperson of the Garcia Companies; Pinky Cole Hayes, founder and CEO of Slutty Vegan; Anu Duggal, founding partner at Female Founders Fund; Katherine Power, serial entrepreneur and partner at Greycroft; Tiffany Dufu, president of the Tory Burch Foundation and founder of the Cru; and Kay Koplovitz, co-founder and chair at Springboard Enterprises, founder of USA Network."I'm so honored to be recognized on Inc.'s Female Founders 500 list. For us, this has never just been about building a business—it’s about changing the way people view cannabis and helping to reverse the impacts of the racist war on drugs. We are elevating the cannabis experience and helping consumers make informed and safe decisions around consumption. We’re working to break outdated stigmas and redefine what cannabis retail can be, and this recognition reinforces that we’re making an impact.” – Arana Hankin-Biggers, Co-Founder and President of The Travel Agency.

The founders cross all industries and bring with them unique stories of success from each stage of the entrepreneurial journey — from startup to going public, being acquired by big buyers, or spending decades at the helm of an organization. Among these visionary leaders is Arana Hankin-Biggers, Co-Founder and President of The Travel Agency, who has redefined what success looks like in the cannabis industry.

In 2024, The Travel Agency expanded its footprint, becoming the first cannabis brand with three NYC dispensaries by opening locations in Union Square, Downtown Brooklyn, and Fifth Avenue. In the first year, The Travel Agency’s flagship store generated $5 million in tax revenue and served over 125,000 customers, with continued growth in the past year and a fourth SoHo location planned for opening later this year. The company advanced its mission through its partnership with the reentry program The Doe Fund, (51% of profits from its Union Square store are redirected to this not for profit), and integrating cannabis into mainstream culture through partnerships like AKNVAS and Christian Cowan’s NYFW shows, the New York Film Festival and All Things Go Music Festival. Additionally, in 2025, The Travel Agency expanded its cultural presence and became the first cannabis brand to advertise in Playbill. These achievements demonstrate The Travel Agency’s commitment to balancing retail success with social equity and cultural relevance, setting a new standard in the cannabis industry.

The Travel Agency has also been at the forefront of innovation, pioneering industry-defining experiences such as educational in-store installations and interactive kiosks designed to cater to the canna-curious. As a trailblazer in the field, the brand was recognized with the Green Market Report Trailblazer Award and three Clio Awards for its approach to retail and design. Through these initiatives, The Travel Agency has redefined the cannabis experience—making sure that it is not only premium and accessible but also rooted in social impact and community engagement.

When In Rome- A City of Rich History and Culture

When you visit Italy's capital city, prepare to cross a few must-see landmarks – including the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon – off of your bucket list. Travelers can also see some of Italy's greatest treasures, including St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, in Vatican City. Escape the tourist crowds by taking a twilight stroll along the cobblestone streets of Trastevere, or head to Mercato Centrale Roma to sample local delicacies like pistachio gelato. Before leaving, peruse some of Rome's lesser-known museums, art galleries and boutiques, or head to Janiculum Hill for panoramic views of the city.

Portrait Roma Hotel

Luxury 5 star hotel in Rome

Portrait Roma, owned by the Salvatore Ferragamo family and part of the Lungarno Collection, is a grand townhouse and stylish refuge in Rome’s most exclusive address on Via Condotti. Set in the heart of the Eternal City’s high fashion district, it is in walking distance of the Spanish Steps. This unique property offers a different style of hospitality, intimacy, and privacy. The passion of Salvatore Ferragamo continues to live on in the splendor and La Dolce Vita charm, with luxury accommodations, including the one-of-a-kind Penthouse Trinità dei Monti, with an exclusive terrace from which to admire this iconic monument. The magnificent rooftop lounge offers breathtaking views of the city and a spectacular sanctuary to enjoy Roman hospitality at its finest: a sumptuous breakfast or evening cocktail in an unforgettable setting. The lifestyle team will ensure your stay is a memorable one, providing an experience that will be true to you and no other.

Is it travel time for you? Are you stuck with in decision on location, preparation or should you make it a girls trip? We have a suggestion for you. The Claridge Hotel In the heart of Mayfair, right outside Hyde Park, Claridge's hints nostalgic English style. Featuring the Fumoir, Claridge's Bar, afternoon tea and the elegant Health Club and Spa.

The Claridge Hotel

London Claridge's provides the ultimate luxury experience.

Breathtaking rooms and suites from some of the world's leading designers; dynamic dining inspired by nature from Simon Rogan inside Fera at Claridge's; London's finest afternoon tea in the Foyer and Reading Room. Exquisite cuisine all-day in the Foyer. The views for the rooms are breathtaking. It’s a must to always have a fully charged phone. Create a memory, but definitely take full advantage of the view.

Bal Harbour Village

Elegance at it’s best. From the time you land in Florida. You’re mesmerized by the warm weather and bluest sky. There are many resorts and hotels to select from. Our team stayed at the Bal Harbour Village in Miami. Best decision ever. Read their opening mission statement from the official website below.

DESTINATION “A shining enclave at the northern tip of Miami Beach, Bal Harbour Village holds a singular appeal for the world’s most discerning travelers seeking the finest Miami resorts. The Village exudes impeccable, contemporary style with deluxe oceanfront hotels, resorts, residences, ultra-chic shopping and an enviable selection of dining options. Yet Bal Harbour Village remains a natural paradise with pristine, white sand beaches and a serene spirit. Discover the exquisite and exclusive Bal Harbour”- Official Bal Harbour Village

The experience is etched out in our minds forever. Entering the ST. REGIS BAL HARBOUR you’ll feel as if you’re in another dimension. The rooms were spacious and filled with natural lighting from the drawn curtains. The beds were soft, plush and felt like a dream. We really struggled to get up and get the day started.

Breakfast on the balcony was also one the absolute finest moments. As the breeze hit our faces and the fresh salt water brushed through our hair. We felt like queens and kings! A little touch of paradise right in our backyard. After a day of shopping, we visited the Rusty Pelican then headed back to the pool at the hotel. The area was, well-Sexy! Prefect lighting and superbly made drinks. If you’re willing to travel a little bit off the grid? The Regis at Bal Harbour Village would be the perfect place to stay.

The Chateau Elan

Chateau Elan has become a favorite American getaway for domestic and abroad travelers. The opening caption on their website reads; “Spanning 3,500 acres of rolling hills and wooded forests, Chateau Elan reigns as North Georgia’s premier destination resort. A favorite for weekend getaways, corporate retreats, and everything in between, this sprawling property features stunning indoor and outdoor event spaces, multiple restaurants, professionally staffed golf and tennis clubs, a world-class spa, and more”.

The images are captivating and not just courtesy of the chateau itself. Patrons from all of the world continue to share their wonderful experiences. The resort is a favorite for what seems to be of all ages. According to past guests. The staff and service is impeccable. The ambiance is well reserved and welcoming upon arrival.