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NEW YORK — Beginning July 10 through August 23, Maesa will be accepting applications for its 2024 Maesa Magic Incubator program. In its second year, this unique initiative is tailored to support underrepresented pre- and early-stage beauty and wellness entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, including women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, differently abled individuals, seniors above 65, and those from low-income households.
According to the Kauffman Foundation, women and/or BIPOC founders collectively receive less than three percent of venture capital funding. Launched in 2023 to commemorate Maesa’s 25th anniversary, the Maesa Magic Incubator aims to bridge the gap in venture capital funding that disproportionately affects these communities. Last year, Maesa proudly supported founders like Nikita Charuza of Squigs Beauty, Keisha Wagner of Fuzz Clinic, and Selah Jael of House of Foster.Who can apply?
- Beauty and wellness entrepreneurs identifying as being from under-represented communities
- Business must be in pre-launch or limited distribution phase (<$1M in sales)
- Must be at least 18 years old at time of submission
- Must be a US-based incorporated business
Program benefits: The 2024 program offers a comprehensive six-month curriculum that includes the below.
- No-strings-attached grant capital of $35,000
- Interactive lecture-based learning with personalized mentorship
- Admission to the coveted “Future of Commerce and Work” program, hosted by the Emerson Group, located on-site at the Harvard Faculty Club
- Hands-on training
- New for 2024:
- Major & Minor tracks that provide a dual-focused approach to business development, in addition to the comprehensive core business lectures provided. The Major track offers deep, specialized engagement culminating in a significant business deliverable, while the Minor track offers additional breadth and perspective, enriching your learning and business innovation capabilities.
- A graduation gift from Cosmoprof North America to attend a fully-paid trip to Cosmoprof North America Miami in January 2025 and complimentary admittance to their illustrious Entrepreneur Academy.
How to apply?
- All interested, eligible entrepreneurs can apply to the #MaesaMagicIncubator program before August 23rd by visiting Maesa.com/incubator-page
- Finalists will have the opportunity to present a pitch deck to an esteemed advisory board comprised of Maesa executives, successful beauty and wellness company founders, and industry thought leaders and investors. This year’s advisory board includes Piyush Jain, Mindy McKnight, Ashley Tisdale, Liraz Evenor, and Nyakio Greico.
