For the past five years, Sephora Accelerate has been dedicated to building a community of innovative, inspirational founders in beauty. This year, the program is incubating founders who are people of color. In line with its 15% pledge, and to ensure there are brands representative of the colors, races, and ethnicities that make up America, Sephora Accelerate commitment this year will be to help bring these brands along.

Nine founders embark on a six-month journey inclusive of an intensive boot camp where they’ll gain the necessary skills to create a successful business and eventual launch at Sephora, the world’s largest beauty retailer. According to Sephora, the goal of the Accelerate program is to provide consistent, cohesive, and ongoing support backed by digital and in-person resources. Content and curriculum provided is directly correlated to helping founders succeed at Sephora. In addition, brands will have the unique experience of building a heart-and-soul connection to Sephora's community and its ecosystem, as well as launching with Sephora.

The nine founders selected for Sephora Accelerate are:

• Christina Funke Tegbe, 54 Thrones

• Priyanka Ganjoo, Kulfi Beauty

• Megan Graham, Ries

• Olamide Olowe, Topicals

• Marie Kouadio Amouzame, Eadem

• Alice Lin Glover, Eadem

• Desiree Verdejo, Hyper Skin

• Alisia Michelle Ford, Glory

• Nia Wellman, Imania Beauty


Applications for the 2022 Sephora Accelerate program will open Fall, 2021.