Topicals founder and CEO Olamide Olowe and President Sochi Mbadugha have launched holding company Cost of Doing Business (CODB). At a time when many companies are pulling back on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, CODB is doubling down—proving that championing cultural consumers isn’t just an ethical stance, but a business imperative.WHO: Cost of Doing Business (CODB) is a holding company founded by Topicals founder and CEO Olamide Olowe and President Sochi Mbadugha that acquires and launches businesses at the center of culture, empowering creatives to build wealth and redefine industries. The business will look to acquire and build businesses that prioritize culture and community, creating lasting opportunities for creative entrepreneurs.In addition, CODB will be subsidizing marketing costs for other small businesses in an effort to increase the visibility and market share of companies within the community with the help of a network of cultural agencies and partners.  DETAILS:CODB Holdings’ investors include the British rap music duo Krept + Konan, Top Dawg of TDE, Ayra Starr, Jhalesa Seymour (founder of Salt.xo), Baroline (founder of Great Day Records), Toni Fola-Alade (Culture Capital), TNDE Group (family office of Nigerian business magnate Tunde Folawiyo), and Daminiyi Solebo, among others.The company also has a creative services arm founded in 2023.Olowe has raised over $14 million for Topicals. CODB Holdings and Topicals will operate as separate businesses.CODB acquired textured haircare brand Bread Beauty Supply in April 2025.