Maesa Launches Applications for the 2027 Class of Magic Incubator
On July 9, 2026, Maesa, a prominent player in the beauty industry known for its innovative brand incubation, announced the opening of applications for its 2027 Magic Incubator program. Now in its fourth year, the initiative is dedicated to empowering beauty and wellness entrepreneurs from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds. This move underscores Maesa's commitment to fostering inclusivity within the beauty sector and providing invaluable resources to budding founders.
Purpose and Impact of the Program
The Maesa Magic Incubator was established to nurture the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that has propelled the company to its current success. The program aims to assist emerging brand founders who often encounter barriers such as limited access to capital, mentorship, and industry networks. Since its inception in 2023, the incubator has provided nearly $315,000 in funding to nine individuals, dramatically transforming their aspirations into viable business ventures.
Piyush Jain, CEO of Maesa, expressed his pride in the community cultivated through the program: "We develop, mentor, and grow brands at Maesa. It's rewarding to extend that energy to the Maesa Magic Incubator community, paralleling our day-to-day efforts with a bridge to the next generation."
Program Features
The 2027 program promises to build upon its successful foundation with several key enhancements:
- - Funding: Each selected participant will receive a grant of $35,000, providing a solid financial base to kickstart their ventures.
- - Tailored Learning and Mentorship: The program includes personalized mentorship designed to address the unique challenges faced by each founder, along with specialized educational tracks focusing on crucial areas of business development.
- - Access to Industry Leaders: Participants will gain insights through fireside chats, workshops, and capstone presentations involving some of the industry's leading figures, paving their paths to success with practical, real-world guidance.
- - Exclusive Experiences: The initiative includes participation in executive education programs at notable institutions, such as Harvard, and access to major industry events like Cosmoprof North America in Miami, where attendees can network and learn about contemporary industry trends.
Advisory Board and Mentorship
A hallmark aspect of the Maesa Magic Incubator is its esteemed Advisory Board, composed of industry veterans who serve as mentors to participants. This group is not only influential but also dedicated to paving the way for the next generation. Notable board members include:
- - Brian Bordainick, Co-Founder of Starface Julie
- - Olamide Olowe, Founder and CEO of Topicals
- - Shai Eisenman, Founder and CEO of Bubble
- - Tomi Talabi, Founder of The Black Beauty Club
This diverse mix of new and returning advisors will further enrich the learning experience for the cohort, helping them navigate the complexities of the beauty landscape.
Who Can Apply?
The Maesa Magic Incubator is specifically tailored for beauty and wellness businesses generating less than $1 million in annual revenue. Eligible founders include women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals, differently-abled persons, seniors (aged 65+), and those from low-income backgrounds.
Applications for this transformative program are open until August 7, 2026. Interested entrepreneurs can find more information and apply at
maesamagicincubator.awardsplatform.com.
Success Stories
The previous cohort saw success with brands like Amoureux Beauty and Rizo Radiance. Christal Alert, one of the standout graduates, launched her brand TONAL Cosmetics at Violet Grey just months after completing the program, showcasing the incubator's effectiveness in fostering real-world success.
About Maesa
Maesa prides itself on being a next-generation beauty company dedicated to transforming the health and beauty landscape through innovative brand creation. By leveraging its design and marketing expertise, Maesa continues to make prestige beauty more accessible while igniting creativity and inspiration across the industry. Current brands under its umbrella include Kristin Ess, Hairitage by Mindy McKnight, and others. For further details, visit
www.maesa.com.