The designer and entrepreneur was recognized at Georgetown University for her foundation’s work expanding access to capital, education, and mentorship for women
Tory Burch has been honored with the 2026 Hillary Rodham Clinton Award in recognition of her work advancing women’s economic opportunity through the Tory Burch Foundation. Presented by former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton during a ceremony at Georgetown University, the award recognizes Burch’s commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs and expanding access to the resources necessary to build sustainable businesses.
Hosted by the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security, the annual ceremony celebrates individuals whose work contributes to a more peaceful and secure world. Burch was recognized alongside Muhammad Yunus, Reema Nanavaty, and Muna Sukhtian, each honored for their contributions to women’s economic empowerment. Introducing Burch, Clinton highlighted her efforts to remove obstacles facing female entrepreneurs, particularly those seeking to transform promising ideas into successful enterprises.
Established to advance women’s economic power, the Tory Burch Foundation provides entrepreneurs with access to capital, education, and professional networks through initiatives including its signature Fellows Program. In partnership with Bank of America, the foundation has helped 5,600 entrepreneurs access $100 million in low-interest loans. Last year, the organization also announced a five-year ambition to generate more than $1 billion in economic impact through women entrepreneurs by 2030, reflecting the scale of its long-term objectives.
“I had this idea 21 years ago that business and purpose could go hand in hand,” Burch said during the ceremony. “I wanted to build a global lifestyle brand so I could start a foundation. For me, it’s my North Star.” She also emphasized the broader significance of women’s financial independence, adding,
When women are economically powered, they can transform everything.”
The recognition underscores the relationship between Burch’s work as a fashion entrepreneur and her philanthropic efforts. Since establishing her namesake brand, she has positioned the foundation as an extension of her business philosophy, using the resources and visibility of a global fashion company to address structural barriers faced by women pursuing entrepreneurship. The foundation’s focus on financing, mentorship, and education reflects an approach that connects individual business success with broader economic participation.
Ambassador Melanie Verveer, executive director of the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security, emphasized the wider implications of women’s economic inclusion, noting that expanding opportunity contributes to stronger families, growing economies, and more prosperous societies. For Burch, the award recognizes a commitment that has developed alongside her fashion business, demonstrating how entrepreneurial success can serve as a platform for creating opportunities beyond the industry itself.