amika Rooted In Growth Startup Grant: $50,000 for Underrepresented Hair Brand Founders

Grant Overview

Underrepresented Hair Brand Founder Grants with Mentorship, Industry Visibility, and Equity Focus

Donor: amika; Fifteen Percent Pledge; SoGal Foundation

About: Hair care founders from underrepresented backgrounds often hit a funding wall just as their products prove their worth. Rooted In Growth changes that. amika and the Fifteen Percent Pledge joined forces, with strategic backing from SoGal Foundation, to fuel brands that have been overlooked. Four founders will each claim $50,000, a mentorship circle with senior industry minds, plus a spotlight across major beauty channels. Think of it less as a handout and more like rocket fuel for a brand that’s already built its engine.

Ready to see how equity shapes the future of beauty? Explore similar support options like this Inclusive Beauty Innovation Grant for more inspiration.

What’s on Offer

— $50,000 flexible grant funding
— Four‑month mentorship with amika and beauty leaders
— Networking events and in‑person kickoff in New York City
— Brand amplification via Fifteen Percent Pledge marketing
— Travel and accommodations covered for program events

Each benefit is designed to fast‑track your growth. If you’re building a hair care CPG brand, check out how our Hair Care Entrepreneur Grants sharpen your pitch for big opportunities.

Are You a Fit?

— U.S.-based hair care product business with under $2 M annual revenue
— At least 51% ownership by founders from backgrounds historically overlooked in funding*
— Selling or planning to sell into professional channels (salons, stylists, distributors)
— Willing and able to travel to NYC for October 2025 kickoff and a Spring 2026 trade show
— Committed to monthly virtual mentorship sessions, October 2025–April 2026
— Complete application with current profit and loss statement

Need hands‑on guidance? Our team at Grantaura offers tailored consultations to polish your application and financials.

Making Your Story Shine

A compelling narrative sets you apart. Share how your brand answers a real need, reflects inclusive values, and uplifts community voices. Map out clear milestones and show how $50K and expert counsel will push you to the next level.

For a final polish, consider our Business Plan Review service; your shortcut to a standout submission.

Focus: underrepresented founders, hair care CPG, mentorship, industry equity, networking

Region: United States

Eligibility:
– Business must be U.S.-based and generate under $2 million in annual revenue
– Minimum 51% ownership by founders from historically overlooked backgrounds*
– Operate in hair care category (products, tools, extensions, color, etc.)
– Sell or plan to sell CPG products through professional distribution channels
– Submit a complete application, including up‑to‑date profit and loss statement
– Founders must travel to NYC in October 2025 and attend a Spring 2026 trade show
– Participate in monthly virtual mentorship sessions from October 2025–April 2026

Benefits:
– $50,000 grant per founder
– Four‑month mentorship with industry experts
– Networking with salon and beauty leaders
– Brand visibility across Pledge channels
– Travel and accommodations covered

Deadline: August 22, 2025

Terms:
– Underrepresented Founder: Individual from a background historically overlooked in venture funding (e.g., Black/African American, AAPI, Hispanic/Latinx, Indigenous, LGBTQIA+, low‑income first‑generation immigrants, women)
– Professional Distribution Channels: Sales through salons, stylists, or salon distributors
– CPG Product: Consumer packaged goods designed for retail or professional use

Author:
Imran Ahmad, founder of Grantaura, blends his expertise in grant strategy and digital marketing to guide emerging beauty innovators. Since 2021, he’s helped over 300 clients refine their pitches and secure funding. Today, he’s on a mission to tear down the barriers that hold underrepresented hair care founders back—so your brand story gets the spotlight it deserves. Learn more at grantaura.com/imran.