Grupo Boticário has launched the sixth edition of its Startup Acceleration Program, an initiative driven by its corporate venture capital arm, GB Ventures. The program seeks to forge strong collaborations with emerging companies to pioneer the future of beauty and retail. Applications are open until February 11th, inviting innovators to join a journey of growth and market integration.
Expanding Reach with a National Roadshow
To enhance the program's visibility, GB Ventures is embarking on a national tour called "GBV on the road," visiting five key Brazilian cities. This roadshow will host regional events in Curitiba, Florianópolis, Porto Alegre, Recife, and São Paulo. The goal is to connect directly with local startup ecosystems and share valuable insights on innovation within the beauty industry.
These events provide a platform for entrepreneurs to learn more about the acceleration journey and engage with the Grupo Boticário team. While the roadshow targets specific innovation hubs, the program itself is open to applicants from all across Brazil. This hybrid approach combines targeted local engagement with a broad national search for the most promising new ventures.
A Comprehensive Acceleration Experience
The program will select up to ten startups from four key verticals: retailtech, beautytech, beauty and wellness brands, and fintech. This five-month journey is offered completely free of charge and does not require startups to give up any equity in their companies. Each participant's experience is customized based on their specific needs and stage of business maturity.
Selected entrepreneurs will gain access to a wealth of resources, including personalized knowledge tracks and exclusive mentorship from specialists and executives within Grupo Boticário. The program also includes weekly follow-ups with acceleration managers to ensure consistent progress and support. This structured guidance is designed to help startups refine their business models and prepare for new market opportunities.
Strategic Investment and Proven Success
This initiative is a core component of Grupo Boticário's broader innovation strategy, which includes a R$100 million CVC fund for the coming years. The fund targets early-stage national and international startups, making minority investments to anticipate market trends. The acceleration program serves as a vital pipeline for identifying these high-potential businesses and fostering initial collaboration.
The program's effectiveness is demonstrated by its successful alumni, who have become integral partners within the Grupo Boticário ecosystem. For instance, Mimo now serves as an official live commerce provider, while Instanteaser developed a pilot for automated video ad creation. These success stories highlight the program's ability to create tangible business outcomes and lasting synergistic relationships.
The 6th Startup Acceleration Program represents a significant opportunity for entrepreneurs to scale their businesses with the backing of a major industry leader. By combining mentorship, strategic investment, and real-world partnership opportunities, Grupo Boticário is actively shaping a more innovative future. Startups with solutions in the beauty, retail, and technology sectors are encouraged to apply and become part of this dynamic ecosystem.