After nearly losing her own home, Adria Marshall now creates opportunities for people rebuilding their lives.
As homelessness continues to impact Atlanta, an Atlanta entrepreneur is using her growing business to create jobs for people transitioning out of homelessness.
Adria Marshall, founder of Atlanta-based natural haircare brand Ecoslay, has grown the company into a seven-figure business generating more than $3.6 million in revenue and selling over 3,000 products monthly to customers around the world. But the company’s growth is rooted in Marshall’s own experience.
In 2008, she was laid off from her corporate tech job during the recession and came close to losing her home while navigating a prolonged job search. After later building her career at Cox and Mailchimp, she launched Ecoslay in 2015 – determined to create a company where growth would translate into opportunity for others.
Through partnerships with local organizations including Atlanta Mission and Hey Atlanta, Ecoslay has hired team members transitioning out of homelessness into production and shipping roles, creating access to stable employment as the business expands.
The need for these pathways remains significant. Atlanta has invested millions in recent years to address homelessness, with initiatives aimed at moving hundreds of residents into stable housing – underscoring the ongoing need for employment opportunities that help people stay housed long term. Ecoslay’s hiring model reflects how small and mid-sized businesses can play a direct role in that effort.
“As Ecoslay grows, I want that growth to create stability and opportunity for others,” Marshall said. “I know how quickly circumstances can change, and I want our success to open doors for our neighbors and community.”
“Working at Ecoslay has given me more than just a job — it’s given me stability and support during one of the hardest seasons of my life. While navigating housing challenges and being away from my family, I’ve found this to be a safe, welcoming space,” Travis Johnson said. “The team genuinely supports one another, and that has meant everything to me. Being here has helped me grow, rebuild my confidence, and move closer to the goals I have for my future.”
Marshall represents a growing wave of female founders scaling businesses while centering community reinvestment and workforce access.
About Ecoslay: Founded by Adria Marshall in 2015, the hair line – based on homemade products for her own naturally, curly style – has grown to more than 100 retailers across the globe and has received quite a following from those with curly and wavy hair textures. No matter how much her business grows, one aspect remains the same. Each product is still handmade using carefully chosen and thoroughly-explained ingredients. The result is hair care that’s as innovative as it is natural and sustainable. Follow them on Instagram @ecoslay.
