Ulta Beauty Launches MUSE Accelerator To Support Early-Stage BIPOC Founders

According to a press release, the inaugural program will introduce early-stage BIPOC beauty brands to a community aiming to empower their entrepreneurial journey. Participants can look forward to resources coupled with mentorship from Black Girl Sunscreen founder Shontay Lundy, founder of BeautyStat Ron Robinson, CEO of BLK/OPL Desirée Rogers CEO,  and founder of Rizos Curls Julissa Prado.

“Having built and launched a brand from concept to aisle, I understand the critical importance of mentors as guides along the way – especially as a minority navigating new territories,” said Lundy, according to a press release. “I was fortunate to have had such support and honored to have the opportunity to pay it forward through Ulta Beauty’s MUSE Accelerator.”

Starting in September, eight minority beauty brand selectees will receive $50,000 in financial backing. The funding is designed to ensure founders will be equipped for retail readiness and thrive long-term. Participants can also look forward to fireside chats and panels with brand founders and industry leaders.

In addition, MUSE Accelerator has partnered with non-profit Venture Norie to develop an extensive 10-week curriculum to cover educational topics from experts about merchandising, supply chain, legal, and marketing, which will be available virtually and in person.

“MUSE Accelerator is another way we’re bringing to life our commitment to diversifying our unparalleled assortment so all guests can see themselves reflected at Ulta Beauty,” said Ulta Beauty’s chief merchandising officer Monica Arnaudo, according to a press release. “We believe it is our responsibility to take tangible steps to create foundational industry change. As a destination where brands can learn, thrive and successfully reach unchartered heights, this program helps us further nurture emerging BIPOC brands and create meaningful impact for the communities we serve, our industry and the world.”

To apply for the MUSE Accelerator, click here. The application will close on June 30th at 11:59 pm CT and selectees will be announced in September.