Willow Innovations Celebrated as One of the World's Most Innovative Companies of 2026

Willow Innovations: A Trailblazer in Maternal Health

Willow Innovations, Inc., a pioneer in maternal health, has garnered recognition by being named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies of 2026. This honors companies that are redefining industries and making significant impacts through innovation. Selected within the Wellness and Personal Care category, Willow has proven that it remains at the forefront of transforming the experience of breastfeeding for new mothers.

Founded in 2014, Willow made waves with the introduction of the world’s first fully in-bra, wearable breast pump in 2017. This technology was game-changing, enabling women to pump milk discreetly and comfortably while going about their day. The company was not just focused on creating a product but aimed to drive a cultural change regarding breastfeeding, addressing the diverse needs of postpartum women.

In its relentless pursuit of innovation, Willow recently introduced the Wave, the first and only wearable manual breast pump. This new product promises a seamless and comfortable experience, replacing traditional manual pumps that had remained largely unchanged for decades. Notably, 68% of breastfeeding mothers rely on these manual pumps, thus the introduction of the Wave is poised to significantly enhance their pumping experience.

Furthermore, in a strategic move last year, Willow acquired Elvie, a prominent U.K.-based FemTech company specializing in women's health and wellness. This acquisition has helped Willow to broaden its maternal health platform and tackle interconnected challenges relating to breastfeeding, postpartum recovery, and more. Willow's strategy underscores the importance of collaboration and partnership in addressing women's health issues.

Sarah O'Leary, CEO of Willow, reflected on this honor, stating, "Women deserve better than suboptimal tools and support when navigating breastfeeding and postpartum. Our mission is to empower women through pioneering solutions crafted for their unique challenges." The commitment to creating products by women, for women is central to Willow's philosophy.

Fast Company’s annual list selects honorees based on detailed evaluations of companies driving global progress. Brendan Vaughan, the editor-in-chief of Fast Company, emphasized that these companies not only adapt to change but actively drive it. By merging bold visions with measurable outcomes, these innovators provide a blueprint for sustainable change and real-world value.

Willow’s legacy continues its trend onwards as it looks ahead towards a bright future in maternal health, focusing on products that serve women better. As the company navigates through 2026, it will continue to push the envelope on what’s possible for mothers in their postpartum journey.

The full list of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies can be viewed at fastcompany.com and will be available on newsstands after March 31, 2026. Furthermore, Fast Company is set to host an event on May 19 in New York City which will highlight these honored companies, providing a platform for networking and collaboration.

In summary, Willow Innovations stands out not only for its innovative technologies but also for its dedication to enhancing women's health and supporting mothers during a challenging yet rewarding phase of their lives. For further insights, visit onewillow.com and connect with the Willow community on social media to join in on their journey of empowerment and wellness.