L’Oréal has officially launched its 2025 Big Bang Beauty Tech Innovation Program in the Philippines. This program, part of a larger regional rollout across South Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and North Africa (SAPMENA), offers startups a unique chance to work with L’Oréal. Participants can collaborate on a commercial pilot with one of L’Oréal’s 37 international brands, gain exposure in 35 SAPMENA markets, and receive a year of mentorship from senior L’Oréal executives and partners.

This program, the largest Beauty Tech open innovation competition in the region, is expanding in 2025 to include Australia and New Zealand. Participating startups will tackle challenges within five themes: Consumer Experience, Content & Media, New Commerce, Tech for Good, and the newly added Science for Beauty.

“With its dynamic startup ecosystem and tech-savvy consumers, SAPMENA has the potential to drive beauty innovation. The Big Bang Beauty Tech Innovation Program enables us to support and collaborate with startups to accelerate innovation and enhance the beauty experience in the region,” said Vismay Sharma, President of L’Oréal SAPMENA Zone.  

Growth in Philippine beauty and tech.

The Philippine beauty industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by a digitally engaged population and increasing demand for personalized beauty experiences. Statista projects the Beauty & Personal Care market to reach US$6.55 billion (PHP 327.5 billion) by 2025, with e-commerce accounting for 40% of total sales.

Equally dynamic is the country’s tech ecosystem, boasting over 1,000 active startups and a digital economy expected to hit USD 35 billion by 2025 (Google, Temasek, Bain & Company). With Filipinos spending an average of four hours daily on social media and actively embracing online shopping, there’s a clear and growing appetite for tech-driven beauty innovations.

L’Oréal Philippines advocates for local beauty tech innovation.

L’Oréal Philippines is expanding its Big Bang Beauty Tech Innovation Program to drive local innovation. As digital advancements change how consumers behave, this initiative empowers startups to create tech-driven beauty solutions, solidifying the country’s position in the industry.

“The Philippines has a young, digital-first consumer base that is shaping the future of beauty. Through the Big Bang Beauty Tech Innovation Program, we aim to empower Filipino startups to develop groundbreaking solutions that merge beauty and technology. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to supporting local innovation and positioning the Philippines as a key player in beauty tech,” said Yassine Bakkari, Managing Director of L’Oréal Philippines. 

With SAPMENA representing 40% of the world’s population and over 60% of its young consumers shopping online weekly, the region presents massive opportunities for startups. Specifically, the Philippines has one of the highest social media engagement rates globally, making it a strategic market for beauty innovation. 

Empowering Filipino Startups through the Big Bang Beauty Tech Innovation Program

L’Oréal’s Big Bang Beauty Tech Innovation Program invites Filipino startups to develop groundbreaking Beauty Tech solutions across five challenge themes. The competition aims to foster local innovation and position the Philippines as a leader in beauty technology. 

The regional semi-finals will take place online in August and September 2025, leading up to the SAPMENA Grand Finale in Singapore on November 5, 2025. A distinguished panel of judges, including senior executives from L’Oréal and its program partners, will evaluate the entries. 

The top three winners will receive a L’Oréal-funded commercial pilot opportunity and a year-long mentorship program with industry leaders. Previous program partners have included Accenture, Google, and Meta. 

Successful startups may also gain opportunities to collaborate with L’Oréal on a global scale, tapping into its extensive network of partners and market insights. 

Key Dates:  
Filipino startups passionate about shaping the future of beauty are encouraged to apply before the submission deadline. To learn more and apply, visit https://bigbang.lorealsapmena.com/
– Submission Deadline: May 30, 2025 
– Regional Semi-Finals (Online): August – September 2025 
– Middle East 
– India 
– Southeast Asia (including the Philippines) 
– Australia and New Zealand 
– SAPMENA Grand Finale (Singapore, In-Person): November 5, 2025 
– Filipino startups passionate about shaping the future of beauty are encouraged to apply before the submission deadline.
To learn more and apply, visit https://bigbang.lorealsapmena.com/