Ashley Graham on Building a Brand Beyond Modeling: Fundraising Was 'Very Hard and Humbling'

Supermodel and entrepreneur Ashley Graham opened up about the challenges of building a business beyond the runway at Business Insider's The Long Play event. Graham, who recently launched her own wine brand, admitted that raising money was 'very hard and humbling,' a candid reflection on the realities of entrepreneurship even for a globally recognized figure. Her insights offer a rare look at how celebrities navigate the shift from personal brand to sustainable business, emphasizing resilience and the need to prove value beyond fame. Graham's journey underscores the importance of authenticity and strategic partnerships in creating a lasting legacy, not just a fleeting product line. As she continues to expand her portfolio, her experience serves as a lesson for aspiring founders: even with a massive platform, building something enduring requires grit and a willingness to learn.