Michelle Grant

Michelle Cordeiro Grant is a prominent entrepreneur and the founder of Lively, a direct-to-consumer lingerie brand known for its innovative approach to women's apparel. Launched in 2016, Lively quickly gained traction by focusing on comfort and community, ultimately leading to its acquisition by Wacoal for $105 million just three years later.124

Background and Career

Before founding Lively, Cordeiro Grant held significant roles in major companies. She was the Vice President of Merchandising at Thrillist Media Group and spent four years at Victoria's Secret, where she recognized the disconnect between traditional lingerie marketing and the needs of real women.134 Her experiences in these roles equipped her with the skills necessary to disrupt the lingerie market.

Lively's Mission and Impact

Cordeiro Grant established Lively with the mission to empower women by creating products that celebrate individuality. She coined the term "Leisurée" to describe her brand's unique blend of leisure and lingerie, emphasizing comfort without sacrificing style.56 Under her leadership, Lively transitioned from an online-only model to having physical retail locations, including partnerships with major retailers like Target.

Transition and Future Ventures

In August 2022, Cordeiro Grant stepped down as CEO of Lively but retained her title as founder. She transitioned into a more advisory role while the company continued to grow under new leadership.3 Following her exit from Lively, she launched GORGIE, an energy drink brand aimed at filling gaps in the market for healthier beverage options tailored for women.45

Personal Philosophy and Community Engagement

Cordeiro Grant is known for her optimistic outlook and strong networking abilities. She actively engages with female entrepreneurs through her podcast, "No Makeup Needed," where she discusses challenges and successes in business.12 Her journey as a first-generation American of Indian descent informs her approach to entrepreneurship, emphasizing resilience and community support.24

Through her ventures, Michelle Cordeiro Grant continues to advocate for inclusivity and innovation in business, inspiring many aspiring entrepreneurs along the way.