TechCrunch Startup News After raising over $3M, popular VC-backed beauty brand Ami Colé is shuttering
Jul 22, 2025
Diarrha N'Diaye-Mbaye shares her journey as a pioneering Black female entrepreneur in the beauty industry. She reveals the tough realities behind her company, Ami Colé, which recently closed after raising over $3 million. The discussion covers the intense competition and pressures from investors, while also addressing the importance of diversity and inclusion in the market. Despite the challenges, there’s an inspiring message about future opportunities and resilience for entrepreneurs in the industry.
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Founder’s Journey with Ami Colé
- Diarrha N'Diaye-Mbaye founded Ami Colé to create makeup for darker skin tones, a niche underserved by bigger brands.
- Despite loyal customers and celebrity fans, the company struggled under investor pressure for fast nationwide growth.
DEI Momentum and Funding Shifts
- Ami Colé's growth and funding were influenced by the post-George Floyd surge in DEI interest from investors.
- This momentum shifted as political climates disfavored DEI, narrowing venture funding for Black founders.
Investor Pressure vs. Sustainable Growth
- Investor expectations for rapid scale conflicted with Ami Colé's sustainable growth and customer loyalty goals.
- This tension exemplifies challenges faced by underfunded startups competing with larger companies.