Equal Opportunity

The South LA Women’s Business Center is committed to eliminating discrimination in all areas of business and providing equal opportunity when accessing capital and contracts. In compliance with state and federal laws and regulations, we do not discriminate based on age, color, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status in any of our policies, procedures, or practices. This non-discrimination policy covers admission and access to and treatment in all programs and activities.

Beauty & The Biz

Thinking of starting a beauty brand?
You're in the right place!

Beauty & The Biz is an incubator program designed specifically for small business owners in the beauty industry. Our mission is to empower and support emerging beauty brands; the program offers participants expert guidance, resources, and networking opportunities to help them navigate the complexities of launching and scaling their businesses.

Throughout the program, participants receive mentorship from seasoned industry professionals, including beauty executives, marketing experts, and successful entrepreneurs. These mentors provide invaluable insights and feedback, helping participants refine their product concepts, develop effective marketing strategies, and establish sustainable business models.

In addition to mentorship, “Beauty & the Biz” provides participants with access to resources such as manufacturing facilities, packaging suppliers, and distribution channels, enabling them to bring their beauty products to market efficiently and effectively. The program also fosters a collaborative community where participants can learn from one another, share experiences, and support each other’s growth.

Registration has closed on March 23, 2025, and classes will be at 6 p.m. (Tuesdays and Thursdays) starting on March 25.

Join the waitlist for the next cohort.

THE FORMAT

EDUCATION

A comprehensive educational curriculum covering various aspects of the beauty industry, including product development, marketing strategies, retail distribution, and branding. Through workshops, seminars, and hands-on training, participants gain practical knowledge and skills essential for launching and scaling their beauty ventures. From understanding ingredient sourcing to mastering digital marketing, the program equips aspiring entrepreneurs with the expertise needed to thrive in the competitive beauty market.

MENTORSHIP

Established beauty professionals, including brand founders, cosmetic chemists, and marketing experts, offer one-on-one mentorship sessions, group critiques, and networking events. Through personalized advice and mentorship, participants receive support in refining their business models, honing their brand identities, and navigating challenges, empowering them to make informed decisions and accelerate their growth in the beauty industry.

PITCH COMPETITION

With passion and creativity, contestants present their unique value propositions, product innovations, and market strategies, vying for investment, partnerships, and recognition. Winners not only receive financial support and resources to bring their beauty visions to life but also gain invaluable exposure and credibility within the beauty community, paving the way for future success and impact in the dynamic world of beauty entrepreneurship.

SEMANA UNO: Orientación + Introducción a la industria de la belleza (25/3)
SEMANA DOS: Desarrollo de marca y producto (1/4)
SEMANA TRES: Marketing Ventas + Estrategia (8/4)
SEMANA CUATRO: Finanzas empresariales (15/4)
SEMANA CINCO: Venta minorista y distribución (22/4)
SEMANA SEIS: Consideraciones legales y regulatorias (29/4)
SEMANA SIETE: Introducción al pitcheo (6/5)
SEMANA OCHO: Preparación para la competencia de lanzamiento/Reuniones con mentores (13/5)
CONCURSO DE LANZAMIENTOS: (17/5)

2024 Beauty & the Biz Pitch Competition Finalist

Beauty and the Biz Pitch Competition Winner

At just 20 years old, Amylah Charles, founder of CurlyCrownz Haircare, is proving that passion and perseverance can open doors. As the winner of the 2024 Beauty and the Biz Pitch Competition, Amylah earned the incredible opportunity to take CurlyCrownz into retail—marking a major milestone in her entrepreneurial journey. A Forbes-featured CEO, Amylah launched CurlyCrownz at just 16 with a mission to redefine curly haircare.

Her dedication caught the attention of industry leaders like Melissa Hibbert from Beauty Founders Agency, who recognized her vision and drive. Beauty and the Biz helped CurlyCrownz officially step into the retail space with her first in-store debut at Glow and Flow Beauty, founded by Diann Valentine.Amylah’s journey is a testament to ambition, resilience, and the power of opportunity—everything we strive to foster at the Women’s Business Center.