Hy-Vee recently awarded $50,000 to local minority- and women-owned businesses during the Hy-Vee OpportUNITY Inclusive Business Summit in Kansas City, Missouri.
During the event, 15 Midwestern companies competed in a pitch competition. Each brand leader was able to demonstrate their product or explain their service for the chance to win a small-business grant. Small businesses across many categories went head-to-head, including specialty food, makeup, and athletics.
Sweet Peaches Cobblers LLC from Blue Springs, Missouri, won the grand prize of $30,000. The family-owned business specializes in heat-and-serve cobblers. Also recognized in the food and beverage category was Ophelia’s Blue Vine Farm from Kansas, Missouri.The first-place winning fresh herb brand won a $5,000 prize.
Two specialty beverage businesses won cash prizes during the summit: Tre’s Squeeze from Manhattan, Kansas, and Café Cà Phê from Kansas City, Missouri.
The event featured an expo that offered resources for small businesses and learning opportunities through presentations and panel discussions.
Related: Meijer Seeks Midwest Makers; Brazi Bites Launches Latino Entrepreneur Accelerator Program