The fundraising initiative founded by Caroline Hirons, Beauty Backed, has extended its support for professionals with a new grant programme.
Founded in 2020 during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, Beauty Backed raised £600,000, £154,000 in just 48 hours, to support independent businesses and people within the industry.
The organisation has since evolved from a charity into a Trust with the aim to champion expertise and help new beauty businesses get off the ground.
As part of the new grant scheme, the Trust is offering two types of grants: the Start-up Grant and Support Grant.
Individuals who planned to enter or continue a career in the beauty industry, but ended due to the pandemic, can apply for the Start-up Grant for a cash injection of up to £5,000.
Where relevant, equipment or stock may be provided instead of a financial donation.
The Support Grant is aimed at established businesses and freelancers that need additional help and guidance to recover from the pandemic, and can also apply for up to £5,000 of financial help.
“Since launching Beauty Backed Trust, we have had over 200 support requests for stock, equipment, financial and mentoring support,” said Hirons, a British aesthetician and author.
“As a response to this, the Trustees and I are thrilled to have put in place two grant programmes that will provide support to those most in need.
“Both programmes will not only provide financial support but access to training and mentoring to help meet the needs of our industry and we cannot wait to get going.”
Applicants can access the online form via beautybacked.com from 7 October.
Successful applicants will be provided with a mentoring programme for guidance and support throughout to ensure the funds are used in the most efficient way.
“Beauty Backed Trust have worked hard to make the application process for the Grant Programme easy to follow and guidance will be available throughout their journey should applicants need it,” added Amy McLean, a Beauty Backed Trust Manager.
“We want the Grant Programme to be accessible to everyone who needs support whilst ensuring that the Trust has adequate information to fully support each candidate.”
