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 [Corporate Responsibility](/categories/corporate-responsibility)

 # From Vision to Impact: How KeyBank Helped L&M Hair Studio Thrive

 


 

 May 29, 2026 12:00 PM ET

  ![Melody Brown, L&M Hair Studio](/sites/default/files/2026-05/thumbnail-vision-impact-how-helped-hair-studio-thrive_KEYBANK_052926-adj2.png)

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When L&M Hair Studio opened its doors in Portland, it was built on more than a small business idea, it was a response to a need. Owner Melody saw a clear gap in the industry for textured hair services and took a leap of faith during the uncertainty of the pandemic to create something meaningful, not just for herself, but for others.

That vision quickly grew into something bigger.

Through KeyBank’s Key4Women program, Melody discovered an opportunity that would change the trajectory of her business: a small business pitch competition. Encouraged to go for it, she entered with a bold idea, to launch a Texture Hair Academy that would create career pathways in an underserved segment of the beauty industry.

Winning the competition became a turning point.

With KeyBank’s support, the academy came to life, offering training cohorts and opening doors for aspiring professionals. Today, the impact reaches far beyond the salon chair. Participants have gone from uncertainty about meeting basic needs to building stable, thriving lives.

The partnership between KeyBank and L&M Hair Studio demonstrates what’s possible when access, opportunity, and belief come together, helping small businesses grow, and in turn, uplift entire communities.



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 [![KeyBank Logo](/sites/default/files/Clients/Screen_Shot_2016-05-13_at_10.27.28_AM.png)](/profiles/keybank)

 



 

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