WEST DES MOINES, IA - Minority and women-owned companies are gaining access to a pivotal distribution opportunity as Hy-Vee announces its OpportUNITY Inclusive Business Summit. Come September 19, the chain will be hosting the networking and showcase event to bolster its supplier portfolio.

As the retailer explained in a recent release, the summit will feature an expo offering resources for small businesses, learning opportunities through presentations and panel discussions, the chance to be inspired by other brands, and more.

The grocer is also inviting local minority and women-owned businesses to apply for the chance to showcase their products or services during a pitch competition at the summit, calling companies across categories such as food and beverage, product innovation, technology, and more.

During the competition, selected applicants will present to a panel of judges for the chance to win up to $30,000 as an investment for future endeavors.

One first-place winner will also be selected from each category (three total) earning $5,000 each. Additional cash investments may be awarded, and select finalists may be invited to participate in further discussions regarding their product or service following the summit.

The deadline to submit an application is 11:59 p.m. (CDT) on August 22, 2023.

For more information on this exciting brand opportunity, click here.

Will we see any produce-centric brands joining Hy-Vee’s expanding lineup soon? Stick around as ANUK reports.

Hy-Vee