Louisville, KY – Louisville Beauty Academy, founded by Di Tran, has earned national recognition as one of America’s Top 100 Small Businesses for 2025 by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce CO—100 Awards. Out of over 12,500 applicants nationwide, only 100 businesses were selected, making Louisville Beauty Academy the sole representative of Kentucky.
Recognized in the Enduring Businesses category, the academy exemplifies long-term growth, resilience, and mission-driven impact. Di Tran, an immigrant entrepreneur, established the school with a bold vision: to make high-quality vocational education in cosmetology, esthetics, nail technology, and instructor certification accessible and debt-free. Offering instruction in English, Vietnamese, and Spanish, the academy empowers immigrants, women, and low-income individuals to gain professional licensure without financial burden.
Since opening, Louisville Beauty Academy has graduated nearly 2,000 licensed professionals, contributing up to $50 million annually to Kentucky’s economy. Through partnerships with local salons, workforce agencies, and community organizations, the academy ensures graduates have meaningful career pathways and opportunities for upward mobility.
Di Tran’s leadership reflects a commitment to community, inclusion, and innovation. Her approach goes beyond traditional education: students gain hands-on experience, digital learning tools, and free state board practice tests aligned with licensing standards, preparing them to succeed in a competitive industry.
This national recognition marks just the beginning. Louisville Beauty Academy is poised to expand its influence beyond Kentucky, serving as a model for affordable, debt-free vocational training nationwide.
Di Tran expressed gratitude to the Louisville community, students, and partners, saying:
“We are honored to represent Kentucky on a national stage. Our mission has always been to empower students through accessible, practical education, and this recognition motivates us to continue breaking barriers and shaping the future of beauty education.”
For more information, visit LouisvilleBeautyAcademy.net or contact study@louisvillebeautyacademy.net.