Botswana
Green Alternative
Cosmetics
Biotechnology
Incubation

The L’Oréal Green Sciences Incubator 2026 is now open for startups developing sustainable, bio-based, and green science innovations aimed at transforming the cosmetics industry. The programme is delivered in collaboration with L’Oréal Research & Innovation, Genopole, and Hello Tomorrow, providing startups with incubation, technical expertise, and potential collaboration opportunities. 

2026-Brochure-LOreal-GSI-2026

Selected startups will join a 6–12 month tailored incubation programme designed to accelerate technology development and commercialisation. 

2026-Brochure-LOreal-GSI-2026

Funding / Support Offered

Selected startups will receive:

  • 6–12 month incubation programme
  • Access to L’Oréal experts and R&D teams
  • Fully equipped biotech laboratory facilities
  • Technical platforms and infrastructure
  • Business support (fundraising, strategy, market access)
  • Access to investors and collaboration opportunities
  • Potential co-development and investment opportunities 

Focus Areas

L’Oréal is seeking sustainable innovations across three domains:

1. Sustainable Cosmetic Functionalities

  • Silicone alternatives
  • Emollients and film-forming materials
  • Sensory & optical effects
  • Water gelification solutions
  • Hair conditioning innovations
  • Barrier function and occlusivity solutions
  • Volatile solvents and propellants 

2. Emerging Green Sciences

  • Bio-based ingredients
  • Low-carbon technologies
  • Carbon capture and utilisation
  • Industrial side-stream valorisation
  • Circular bioeconomy solutions 

3. Advanced Green Chemistry & Biotech

  • Innovative fermentation processes
  • Alternative carbon sources
  • Mechanochemistry & electrochemistry
  • Sustainable ingredient production technologies 

Eligibility Criteria

Startups are encouraged to apply if they:

  • Are developing innovative solutions for cosmetic applications
  • Want to adapt existing technology to the cosmetics industry
  • Require lab facilities, technical support, or scaling assistance
  • Are interested in collaboration with L’Oréal
  • Have technology with commercialisation potential 

Eligible Countries

This is a global call open to startups worldwide.

Eligible Organisations

  • Startups
  • Deep-tech companies
  • Biotechnology startups
  • Green chemistry startups
  • Sustainable materials innovators
  • Bio-based ingredient companies

Programme Timeline

  • Applications Open: 11 March 2026
  • Applications Close: 6 May 2026
  • Selection & Calls: 20 May 2026
  • Winners Announcement: 1 July 2026
  • Programme Start: Q4 2026 

Why This Opportunity Matters

This programme provides:

  • Direct collaboration with L’Oréal
  • Access to world-class biotech infrastructure
  • Industry validation and scaling opportunities
  • Exposure to global investors and partners

This is a high-value opportunity for deep-tech, biotech, and green innovation startups looking to scale in the global cosmetics and sustainability markets.

Click HERE to visit the official website. 

Closing date
Industry
Professional, scientific and technical activities
​Arts, entertainment and recreation
Website link
https://hello-tomorrow.org/loreal-gsi-startup-call-2026/

Brochures and other documents