Program provides the founders of eight BIPOC early-stage beauty brands with top talent support and funding for retail readiness.
Ulta Beauty, the nation’s largest beauty retailer with more than 1,350 retail stores across all 50 states announced its MUSE Accelerator cohort of 2023, building on its inaugural 2022 program. The 10 week Accelerator program will take eight-early stage BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) beauty brands in a range of beauty categories through virtual and in-person sessions covering every stage of retail preparedness.
The cohort will benefit from a robust curriculum, mentorship and funding that positions them in the best possible way for growth and product distribution. In addition, participation in the Accelerator makes them part of a community that gives them a support network based on inclusivity—to “drive equitable and sustainable change”.
“We’re excited to welcome our 2023 MUSE Accelerator participants to the Ulta Beauty family,” said Monica Arnaudo, chief merchandising officer, Ulta Beauty. “As retail leaders and brand builders, we have a responsibility to create space and opportunities for all brands, particularly those who have been underrepresented…This year’s participants are a shining example of the bright future of beauty, and we can’t wait for the world to meet them.”
For the 2023 cohort Ulta Beauty brings together the top talent and resources of the beauty community that will engage with members. This includes industry leaders at Meta, TikTok, Métier Creative, and True Beauty Ventures, among others, for the nurturing of each brand’s development for long term success.
2023 mentors include brand founders Monique and Melvin Rodriguez of Mielle, David Yi of Good Light, Fiona Co Chan of Youthforia, Sonsoles Gonzalez of Better Not Younger, Ju Rhyu of Hero Cosmetics, Dorion Renaud of Buttah Skin, Yve-Car Momperousse and Stéphane Jean-Baptiste of Kreyòl Essence, and Sarah Cheung of Sacheu Beauty.
The program begins in September with a curriculum that includes Retail 101, Brand Strategy & Positioning, Product Development, and P&L & Financial Management.
One cohort company is DreamGirls, co-founded by Sharie Wilson and Tonya Thompson. They have developed a 5-step Healthy Hair Care System to help Black women grow their natural hair, retain length, and achieve long-term hair health.
To meet the other nine members of the Ulta Beauty 2023 MUSE Accelerator cohort, visit here.
