Janice Bryant Howroyd made history as the first Black woman to own a billion-dollar company, proving that determination and vision can create lasting success.
In 1978, Howroyd founded ActOne Group, a workforce solutions and staffing agency, with just $1,500—$900 of which was a loan from her mother.
What started as a small employment agency in Los Angeles has grown into a global enterprise with an estimated $1.1 billion in revenue, over 2,600 employees, and 17,000 clients across 33 countries.
Raised in North Carolina as one of 11 siblings, Howroyd credits her success to the lessons instilled by her parents.
“Attitude beats aptitude,” she often says.
The newest Ask JBH episode featuring Dr. Jen Douglas is up!
— Janice Bryant Howroyd (@JBryantHowroyd) February 26, 2025Listen now on your favorite podcast platform, or watch it on my YouTube channel: https://t.co/xxok6DL5Lr pic.twitter.com/D5ch1HLBsh
Her journey from job seeker to CEO showcases the power of resilience and entrepreneurship.
Beyond business, she is an author of two books—Acting Up (2019) and The Art of Work (2009)—offering advice on career growth and leadership. With her family, she also owns multiple commercial and residential properties.
Howroyd’s story is a testament to breaking barriers and building generational wealth, inspiring future entrepreneurs to dream big.
