Ulta Beauty Launches MUSE Accelerator To Support Early-Stage BIPOC Founders
The nation’s largest beauty retailer, Ulta Beauty, is now accepting applications for its MUSE Accelerator, an inaugural program dedicated to supporting early-stage BIPOC beauty brands to launch and thrive in retail.
Officially starting in September, eight successful applicants will receive $50,000 in financial support to propel brand development in addition to resources designed to prepare each for retail readiness and long-term success.
This will include opportunities to learn from experts across various industries such as merchandising, supply chain, legal, and marketing, as well as brand founders and industry leaders’ engagement during fireside chats and panels.
Through the MUSE Accelerator, Ulta Beauty aims to educate, inspire and support participants with time, resources and mentorship to prepare diverse leaders, founders, and entrepreneurs for retail readiness, while nurturing a community to help empower each selected participant’s journey.
Monica Arnaudo, chief merchandising officer of Ulta Beauty, said: “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.
“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.”
Shontay Lundy, founder and CEO of Black Girl Sunscreen, said: “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.
“I was fortunate to have had such support and honored to have the opportunity to pay it forward through Ulta Beauty’s MUSE Accelerator.”
Eligible early-stage BIPOC brands are encouraged to apply today by visiting ulta.com/muse-accelerator for guidelines and to learn more about the program. The deadline to submit is June 30th at 11:59 pm CT.
