Shristi Mishra, co-founder and CEO of Yak9 Chews, has been named to Inc.'s 2026 Female Founders 500, an annual list honoring women business leaders in the U.S.
According to the company, the 2026 honorees collectively generated approximately $12.3 billion in 2025 revenue and $12.2 billion in funding to date. Inc. editors evaluate applicants through a multi-round selection process, assessing revenue growth, funding, sales, audience size, innovation, social impact and brand momentum.
"Yak9 Chews began with a simple idea: to share a traditional Himalayan cheese recipe with dogs around the world," Mishra said. "Over the years, we've innovated in the natural chew category while supporting the farmers and communities who have been crafting these chews for generations. This recognition from Inc. is incredibly meaningful because it reflects years of persistence, growth, and the collective effort of our team, customers, and partners who believed in our mission."
Founded in 2015 by Mishra and her husband Pukar Pyakurel, Yak9 Chews produces flavored yak cheese chews and treats made from human-grade ingredients. The company's Strawberry Cheese Chew won two Best in Show awards at Global Pet Expo 2023. Products are available in more than 300 independent pet retailers and major online platforms.
In 2025, the company received the Purina Pet Care Innovation Prize. Yak9 Chews is also an accredited member of the Pet Sustainability Coalition.
