Sephora has announced the application process is open for its 2023 Accelerate program. As part of its commitment to increasing BIPOC representation in its product assortment, the program will focus on BIPOC-founded and -owned brands.

Sephora's Accelerate program consists of a 360-degree, six-month curriculum with mentorship, merchandising support, grants, and investor connections for all participants, with the opportunity to launch at Sephora upon completion. This year, a new addition to the program is an advisory team consisting of a financial and investment expert, a legacy industry partner, and a current brand founder from within the Sephora portfolio of brands.

"We know that many deserving brands face challenges when beginning their retail journeys," said Priya Venkatesh, SVP, Global Merchandising. "At Sephora, we want to eliminate those barriers, and help create an opportunity for new and exciting brands to thrive in the beauty space. We look forward to welcoming the class of 2023 founders into our Accelerate family and providing even more mentorship and support to this year's upcoming cohort."

Similar to past Accelerate programs, Sephora Accelerate 2023 will take place from January through June, digitally, with two in-person events: orientation and graduation.

Applications for Sephora Accelerate 2023 are now open through September 26.