Glossier reveals first UK grantees of Black Beauty Grant Programme

Glossier has announced the UK grantees for its Black Beauty Grant Programme, created in partnership with Black Girl Fest to support Black women founders. 

Glossier launched its inaugural grant program for Black-owned beauty businesses in 2020. It has since partnered with over 30 founders in the US, providing them with funding and curated curriculums of business programming.

In April 2023, the brand introduced the Black Beauty Grant Programme to the UK. The initiative was created in partnership with Black Girl Fest, a global creative studio that works to create a better future for Black women, girls, and non-binary people.

Glossier and Black Girl Fest have now announced the five grantees, who will join a 12-week learning programme to help "take their businesses to the next level".

As part of this, the grantees will have access to expert advice from industry professionals and connect with experienced founders. They will also receive a £10,000 equity-free cash grant.

Kleo Mack, Chief Marketing Officer at Glossier, said: “We’re thrilled to announce the five grantees of the 2023 Black Girl Fest Black Beauty Grant Programme powered by Glossier, and we can’t wait to work with this inspiring group of founders.

"We were so impressed with the number and quality of the applications that came through for our inaugural UK programme. The final five grantees really stood out for us and we, along with Black Girl Fest, are delighted to be able to support them on their business journey.”

The 2023 grantees

Therese M’Boungoubaya, KOBA skincare

KOBA skincare was born from a mission to simplify skincare with results-driven routines and naturally active ingredients whilst giving back to the planet. M’Boungoubaya founded the brand after noticing a gap in the market for skincare products formulated and manufactured with African heritage.

Roshanne Dorsett, The Glowcery

The Glowcery uses AI technologies to develop a range of plant-based, superfood and sustainably-focused skincare. After becoming vegan in 2020, Dorsett realised that she wasn’t able to find beauty products that were healthy and effective, thus The Glowcery was formed.

Ashleigh Alli, ASHE London

ASHE London is an award-winning, luxury vegan nail colour brand. All of the colours are cruelty-free, vegan and made using a 77% plant-origin formula. Alli has been in the beauty industry for over 20 years.

Nneka Flemming, AIRFRO

AIRFRO creates healthy haircare solutions for active lifestyles. Flemming launched the brand with a single product designed to refresh curls between washes and exercises.

Elizabeth Ola, TRU SKN

TRU SKN aims to increase diversity and inclusion within the beauty industry with sustainable products. Ola combines beauty and tech to create specifically formulated pigmented products that can create a universal shade.