We are thrilled to share that Christie Garton, founder and CEO of 1,000 Dreams Fund (1DF), has been named a 2025 Entreprenista 100 Award Winner. Nearly ten years in, this recognition reflects a movement in motion — one that continues to make history by turning dreams into real, measurable impact.

Presented by Entreprenista, this recognition celebrates bold, impact-driven founders who are building, innovating, and uplifting communities. Christie joins an inspiring group of industry leaders proving what’s possible when founders connect, collaborate, and show up for one another.

Turning Vision into Impact

Nearly a decade ago, Christie launched 1DF after recognizing how often a lack of funding prevents young women from pursuing career-shaping opportunities — from internships and certification programs to conferences and other pivotal experiences.

“I’m so grateful to have our work honored by Entreprenista,” said Christie. “1DF launched with a goal of helping make more career dreams come true for those in need. We cannot do this work without the individuals and organizations who have stepped forward to support our mission over the years. I’m thrilled to celebrate this award with our community.”

What began as a passionate idea has grown into a movement with international reach.

Since its founding in 2016, 1DF has:

• Granted more than $1 million in scholarships
• Provided over 1,000 hours of mentorship
• Empowered women across 41 states and 10 countries

Behind those numbers are programs built to do more than provide a one-time award. Now in its 10th year, 1DF pairs funding with mentorship and hands-on career experience, creating a model designed to stay with young women well beyond a single moment and into the start of their careers. The organization brings this to life through three pillars: fundHER, mentorHER and hireHER.

Some of 1DF’s signature programs include:

• New Face of Tech Scholarship with HARMAN, which celebrated its ninth year and expanded global eligibility
• Riot Games Broadcast Cadetship (powered by AWS), providing masterclass training to thousands along with hands-on esports production experience to soon-to-be selected apprentices
• Colgate-Palmolive Scholars Program, empowering women in healthcare and life sciences

“I’ve learned that meaningful change isn’t achieved overnight,” added Christie. “Rather, it happens when you stay rooted in purpose and focused on addressing the real roadblocks that exist with solutions that aren’t just a bandaid”

The Entreprenista 100 Award reflects Christie’s leadership and shines a national spotlight on the power of investing in women. It further fuels 1,000 Dreams Fund’s mission to ensure that no dream goes unrealized for lack of access to opportunity while uplifting the incredible community of donors, mentors, corporate partners, volunteers, and Dreamers who make this work possible.

We are proud to stand alongside such inspiring founders and grateful to the Entreprenista community for championing women-led impact.

Here’s to the next decade of dreams realized. ✨