<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><ns2:project xmlns:ns1="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api" xmlns:ns2="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/project" xmlns:ns3="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/fund" xmlns:ns4="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/person" xmlns:ns5="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/project/outcome" xmlns:ns6="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/organisation" ns1:created="2026-06-03T15:52:43Z" ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/projects/DDA803EC-9737-4CBC-A807-6ACA8C193841" ns1:id="DDA803EC-9737-4CBC-A807-6ACA8C193841"><ns1:links><ns1:link ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/persons/14E09E3A-C242-49D3-B418-AC78F6407F30" ns1:rel="PM_PER"/><ns1:link ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/organisations/6263716A-C464-4928-9D1B-B880C6C89C9B" ns1:rel="LEAD_ORG"/><ns1:link ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/organisations/6263716A-C464-4928-9D1B-B880C6C89C9B" ns1:rel="PARTICIPANT_ORG"/><ns1:link ns1:end="2024-11-30T00:00:00Z" ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/funds/CFC84BB6-8242-4F06-8774-492FF636046D" ns1:rel="FUND" ns1:start="2023-12-01T00:00:00Z"/></ns1:links><ns2:identifiers><ns2:identifier ns2:type="RCUK">10095488</ns2:identifier></ns2:identifiers><ns2:title>Organic Beauty Product Development and Manufacture</ns2:title><ns2:status>Closed</ns2:status><ns2:grantCategory>Investment Accelerator</ns2:grantCategory><ns2:leadFunder>Innovate UK</ns2:leadFunder><ns2:abstractText>In today's beauty sector, Black and Ethnic Minorities (BAME) consumers often find it challenging to access products tailored to their needs, despite spending 25% more on beauty than other groups. This disparity is further accentuated by the underrepresentation of women, especially from BAME backgrounds, in the manufacturing domain. Addressing this, our project champions empowerment, innovation, and inclusivity.

**Objective:** We aim to empower women from underrepresented backgrounds, equipping them with the expertise to formulate, produce, and market beauty products. This dual approach diversifies the beauty market and boosts female presence in manufacturing.

**Manufacturing Lab:** Central to our initiative is a cutting-edge manufacturing lab. Here, participants gain practical experience in product formulation, turning innovative ideas into products.

**Digital Learning &amp;amp; Mentorship Platform:** Our digital platform offers a comprehensive learning journey, featuring online courses on topics from product creation to branding, mentorship from seasoned professionals, and resources for career advancement.

**Pilot Programme:** Our 12-week pilot programme will immerse ten selected women in the beauty industry's nuances, preparing them for industry roles or entrepreneurial ventures.

**Inclusivity &amp;amp; Diversity:** Beyond skill-building, we're fostering an inclusive space, inviting diverse participation to ensure the beauty sector mirrors our diverse society.

**Environmental Consciousness:** We emphasize eco-friendly product formulation, teaching sustainable ingredient sourcing, ethical practices, and green packaging.

Our initiative is a stride towards a more inclusive and sustainable beauty world. By arming women with essential skills, we're shaping not only their destinies but also the beauty industry's future. Join our transformative mission, where every beauty product tells a tale of empowerment and change.</ns2:abstractText></ns2:project>