Sephora Accelerate Program: Empowering BIPOC Founders for 2025

Sephora's Impactful 2025 Accelerate Incubator Program

Today marks an exciting milestone for Sephora North America as they unveil the latest cohort of emerging brands selected for their 2025 Accelerate program. This initiative has become a hallmark for nurturing diverse talent in the beauty industry, celebrating ten impactful years of championing BIPOC-founded and -owned businesses. This year’s group showcases a diverse array of brands covering all categories—haircare, makeup, skincare, and fragrance.

A Unique Support Structure for Emerging Brands

The Sephora Accelerate program is structured around a comprehensive six-month curriculum, offering crucial mentorship, merchandising assistance, grants, and invaluable connections with potential investors. Participants are given a remarkable opportunity to launch their products at Sephora North America after completing the program. By engaging in this transformative experience, these brands acquire the essential tools and networks necessary to cultivate and sustain a successful business model.

Success Stories and Program Evolution

Since its reorientation in 2021 to specifically support brand founders of color, the Accelerate program has seen 33 brands successfully complete its rigorous training. Impressively, over half of the participants from the 2021–2023 cohorts have reached the retail stage, showing tangible impact on their business trajectories. "We are thrilled to honor the finalists of the 2025 Accelerate program and recognize the unique talents they bring to the beauty space," noted Priya Venkatesh, the Global Chief Merchandising Officer at Sephora. The program not only promises to empower founders but also reflects the growing demand for innovative brands that resonate with contemporary beauty standards.

Introducing the 2025 Sephora Accelerate Cohort

Let’s get to know the exciting brands joining the 2025 Sephora Accelerate Cohort:

• Jade Beguelin & Sabrina Sadeghian - 4AM: A skincare brand designed to streamline routines with luxurious products.
• Hye Young Kim - OliviaUmma: A revolutionary skincare line inspired by Korean beauty principles.
• Merian O - Bounce Curl: A science-driven hair care line specifically for curly, wavy, and coily hair types.
• Aziza El Wanni - THE POTION STUDIO: A climate-conscious hair care brand focusing on the needs of textured hair.
• Christal Alert - TONAL Cosmetics: Integrating skincare and makeup, catering to all skin tones.
• Funmi Monet - INFLUXIOUS: Offering luxury fragrances and scented accessories.
• Fatema Raja & Navneet Kaur - RUHVEDA: A contemporary fragrance business rooted deeply in South Asian heritage.
• Judy Koloko - The Steam Bar: Innovating hair care with steaming technology for rejuvenation.

A Curriculum Tailored for Success

The curriculum of the Accelerate program is designed to tackle real-world challenges faced by early-stage brands. Founders gain insights from seasoned industry leaders, covering topics such as financial readiness, social media strategy, and marketing tactics. Notable figures training the participants include Nancy Twine, Christine Chang, and Amy Liu, all experts who have made significant contributions to the beauty space.

Exclusive Access to Experts and Resources

Additionally, program participants benefit from one-on-one consulting sessions with industry professionals from Front Row and Clarity Media, along with access to a dedicated advisory team. This team is composed of beauty industry veterans and financial experts, offering a wealth of experience and insights. The network’s support allows founders to navigate the complexities of launching their brands effectively.

Continuous Support Beyond the Program

Sephora goes beyond the confines of the Accelerate program, providing brand founders with several partnerships and opportunities for ongoing education and growth. Events like the Sephora Impact Summit focus on uplifting BIPOC brands and fostering collaboration. For founders seeking financial assistance, Sephora also champions initiatives like the Sephora Beauty Grant, which empowers underrepresented entrepreneurs in the beauty space.

Application Process and Criteria for Inclusion

The road to becoming a part of the 2025 Accelerate cohort started with an application process in Fall 2024. Candidates needed to meet certain criteria, including being a North American-incorporated business in the initial stages of development. Sephora evaluated each brand based on its vision, innovation, and product maturity during the selection process.

About Sephora

Sephora stands as a global leader in prestige beauty retail, with a network of over 3,000 stores and extensive e-commerce platforms. The company is committed to connecting customers with an array of diverse brands and creating personalized shopping experiences. Since its establishment in 1969, Sephora has continually strived to revolutionize the beauty retail landscape while promoting inclusivity and inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Sephora Accelerate program?

The Sephora Accelerate program is an incubator designed to support emerging beauty brands, particularly those founded by BIPOC individuals, through mentorship, grants, and resources.

How many brands are part of the 2025 cohort?

This year, eight new brands were selected to participate in the 2025 Accelerate program.

What types of support do participating brands receive?

Brands benefit from a six-month curriculum, mentorship, personalized consulting, and opportunities to launch at Sephora.

Who are some of the mentors in the Accelerate program?

Mentors include renowned beauty industry figures like Nancy Twine, Christine Chang, and Amy Liu.

How does Sephora support BIPOC brands beyond the program?

Sephora offers additional opportunities like educational events and grants aimed at empowering underrepresented entrepreneurs in the beauty industry.

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