In a remarkable story of innovation and determination, Anita Grant has transformed a personal mission into a successful business with her company, Hello Hair. It all began when Grant, an entrepreneur from Hamilton, Ontario, sought to instill a sense of pride in her daughter about her hair. Frustrated by the lack of information on textured hair representation, she decided to write a book that follows four best friends who go to a salon and learn about the versatility of their natural hair. The book, published in 2022, features 100 children’s hairstyles ranging from afros and braids to twists and locks. The book encourages young Black girls to build a better relationship with their hair through illustrations.
Today Grant’s business boasts four product lines, including a series of four haircare dolls featuring natural hairstyles, haircare workshops and two products. Grant aims to build Black female empowerment and self-love through quality haircare education and resources. “We are on a mission to help young girls embrace their natural hair through representation, celebration and education,” says Grant. “It took me over two decades to embrace my natural hair, which plays a huge part in a person’s self-esteem and confidence.”
In the last four years, Hello Hair has gained traction, resonating with a community eager for products that catered to their unique needs. Grant’s dedication to quality and authenticity set her brand apart in a crowded market. Last year, her entrepreneurial journey led her to Dragon’s Den, where she was offered a $250,000 deal after making a successful pitch. More recently, she launched a podcast and is exploring the possibility of an animated TV series, further expanding Hello Hair’s impact.
Grant is one of the 70 entrepreneurs from equity-seeking communities who have received support through Rise. This eight-month federally funded program offered by Sheridan’s entrepreneurial hub, EDGE, provides individualized coaching, advisory services, access to student talent, faculty expertise, research capacity and more.
“What I love most about Rise is their holistic approach and support when it comes to the social entrepreneur journey and the unique challenges and needs of social enterprises,” says Grant.
She praised the coaching she received through Rise, saying her sessions focused not just on business but also let her discuss her day-to-day wellbeing as she continued her journey.
Grant’s coach also connected her with others in his network for additional guidance and support. “Thanks to the support received through my Rise coach, we’ve improved our quality assurance processes to ensure we’re reaching the highest standards for all our consumer products, and we have plans for distribution into the retail space,” says Grant.
With plans for expansion and new creative ventures, Grant continues to build on her vision, because Hello Hair is more than a brand—it’s a movement for empowerment
and self-love.
