The MUSE Accelerator, now in its third year, supports Ulta Beauty’s ongoing efforts to magnify, uplift, support, and empower underrepresented voices in the industry while curating a unique, inclusive assortment.
“As retail leaders and brand builders, we seek to create space and opportunities for all brands to thrive in our industry and nurture an inclusive assortment that reflects the beautifully diverse community we serve,” said Monica Arnaudo, Chief Merchandising Pfficer, Ulta Beauty. “We’re focused on brand amplification, assortment growth and creating equitable guest and associate experiences so everyone can see themselves reflected in what we offer.”
Jamie Melbourne & Tony Lecy-Siewert, Apostle: As society evolves, new beauty standards emerge grounded in inclusion and self-expression. Apostle is a brand that intersects skincare and makeup for men.
Audrey Ajakaye, Audaja: A professional-grade skincare brand reimagining skincare for all skin types and tones, with skin of color in mind, born from founder Audrey Ajakaye’s lifelong battle with chronic eczema.
Amy Roe, Byroe: Upcycled superfood-infused skincare crafted with vegan and cruelty-free ingredients.
Amara Onwukaeme, Femigist: Acknowledging the intersectionality between skincare, hormonal care, and period care, Femigist provides plant-powered hormonal support, feminine wellness products, educational resources, and a supportive community.
Mia Fiona Kut, Luna Nectar: A line of sustainable, waterless haircare products rooted in adaptogen theory, from Eastern rituals, combined with clinical actives. Dermatologist- and trichologist-approved, Luna Nectar's mission is to kick the stigma of women’s hair loss.
Nicol Varona Cancelmo & Cory Varona, Ocoa: Clean curl care for hermanas everywhere inspired by the Dominican Republic and created to simplify curly hair routines with clean, nourishing ingredients that uplift natural beauty and represent the Hispanic and Latino community.
Elimar Depaula, Queen Cosmetics: More than just a beauty brand, Queen Cosmetics is dedicated to designing products that transcend the ordinary, speak to your inner artist, and encourage self-expression and authenticity.
Dana Roberts, Jarrod Shaw, and Dr. Monica Williams, RedDrop: Created by an educator and a doctor to ensure that girls are prepared and empowered as their period journey begins, RedDrop offers superior products and empowering content to help grow powerful women.
Each brand in the 2024 MUSE Accelerator cohort will receive $50,000 in financial support to help accelerate their businesses and resources to establish a foundation for long-term success. New to the program this year, Ulta Beauty and long-time partner Fifteen Percent Pledge will select one cohort member to receive an additional $10K award presented at the end of the program.
