What's Happening?
Sephora North America has announced the selection of 12 beauty brands for its 2026 Accelerate program, an initiative aimed at supporting emerging brand founders in the prestige beauty industry. The program, which began in 2016, focuses on nurturing and propelling
new beauty brands, with a particular emphasis on founders of color since its reimagining in 2021. The selected brands for this year include Forta Cosmetics, Dealbodies, MOWE Beauty, BASE-K, Pepper Pout, Reference, Omora Beauty Lab, Everyday Chemist, MORÉ, EAUSO VERT, Manuscript, and Innae Beauty. These brands were chosen from a competitive pool of applicants across North America. Participants in the program will receive mentorship from industry experts, access to Sephora executives, and opportunities for monetary grants, such as the $100,000 Sephora Beauty Grant.
Why It's Important?
The Sephora Accelerate program plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the beauty industry by supporting diverse and innovative brand founders. By focusing on underrepresented groups, the program helps to diversify the beauty market and introduce fresh perspectives and products. This initiative not only aids in the growth of these emerging brands but also enriches the beauty industry with new ideas and cultural influences. The program's success is evident in its alumni, who have launched at Sephora and built strong customer communities. This support can lead to significant economic opportunities for the founders and contribute to a more inclusive industry landscape.
What's Next?
Participants in the 2026 cohort will engage in a curriculum designed to help them establish and scale their brands sustainably. They will have access to the Sephora Impact Summit and other initiatives that aim to champion the next generation of beauty brands. The program's focus on mentorship and strategic guidance is expected to equip these founders with the tools needed for long-term success. As these brands grow, they may become key players in the beauty industry, potentially influencing trends and consumer preferences.
