Women-Led Businesses Get A Boost With BOTOX® Cosmetic Grants, Kick Off Crowdfunding

Allergan Aesthetics, part of AbbVie, is excited to unveil the latest chapter of its 2024 BOTOX® Cosmetic grant program, designed to empower women entrepreneurs. This new phase introduces crowdfunding campaigns for the 20 selected recipients, giving the community an opportunity to champion and support these remarkable women as they pursue their entrepreneurial goals.

In its second year, the BOTOX® Cosmetic grant program continued empowering women entrepreneurs by awarding $25,000 grants to selected recipients. Along with financial assistance, the recipients took part in an impactful bootcamp, led by BOTOX® Cosmetic and Deepica Mutyala, founder of Live Tinted. 

This immersive experience featured small-group workshops focusing on key areas like brand development, strategic planning, and marketing, while also offering personalized coaching and mentorship from industry professionals. Additionally, through a partnership with IFundWomen, the participants received invaluable coaching to master crowdfunding and accelerate the growth of their businesses.

Carrie Strom, President, Allergan Aesthetics and Senior Vice President, AbbVie, stated "Women-owned businesses continue to receive on average less than three percent of all venture capital funding1. With so few resources and funding available, crowdfunding is a key opportunity for these entrepreneurs to grow their businesses. Many women-owned businesses focus on bettering their communities and have a significant influence on job creation, innovation, and overall economic prosperity2. By supporting grant recipients through their crowdfunding campaigns, we can drive impact and empower confidence in these entrepreneurs and beyond." 

Maria Palacio, Founder of Progeny Coffee and 2023 BOTOX® Cosmetic grant recipient, mentioned "Crowdfunding helped me turn my vision for my business into a reality. I am excited to see this year's cohort of entrepreneurs kickstart their campaigns. Every contribution adds up, and when people believe in your vision enough to donate—even a small amount—it validates and encourages you to continue pursuing your dream. Your support, no matter the size, truly makes a difference."

"The crowdfunding aspect of the BOTOX® Cosmetic grant program goes beyond just financial support—it's about building a powerful community around our businesses. Being part of this program has been an amazing experience. It's incredibly inspiring to see the community, championed by BOTOX® Cosmetic, truly believe in our vision and actively join us on our journey to success,” stated Līhau Willing, Founder of Iwi Nails and 2024 BOTOX® Cosmetic grant recipient. 

This year's crowdfunding campaigns go beyond raising money—they spotlight the unique journeys, passion, and determination of each entrepreneur. By contributing, individuals play a pivotal role in bridging the "Confidence Gap" and empowering future women leaders. Last year's grant recipients shared that the crowdfunding aspect was key to accelerating their business growth, proving its effectiveness as a capital-raising tool. However, it also brought to light the intricate demands and commitment needed for a successful campaign. This year, the program is taking things up a notch by equipping entrepreneurs with essential skills and insights to navigate these complexities and propel their businesses forward with confidence.

The 2024 grant recipients have embarked on a mentorship and community-building journey, guided by experts like past recipients, Allergan Aesthetics executives, and pioneering women founders in the aesthetics field. They completed the IFundWomen 10-week online Crowdfunding Accelerator Program, refining their business pitches and preparing to launch their campaigns. Each entrepreneur presents exclusive incentives for various contribution levels, and there’s no minimum donation required. Supporters can opt to contribute either publicly or anonymously.

To back the crowdfunding efforts of the grant recipients, head over to IFundWomen.com/BOTOXCosmetic! 

For more details on this inspiring initiative, explore BotoxCosmetic.com/RealImpact. 

Stay connected by following @botoxcosmetic on Instagram and YouTube, and learn how you can play a part in closing the "Confidence Gap" for women entrepreneurs.

You can also be a part of the change today!