Hy-Vee said Tuesday that it will provide an opportunity to advance local minority- and women-owned companies through a networking and showcase event in Omaha in January 2024. The Hy-Vee OpportUNITY Inclusive Business Summit will be held at the Scott Conference Center at the University of Nebraska Omaha's Scott Campus in Omaha.
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 retailer is also offering one-on-one mentoring sessions with local store directors. Local community groups and organizations, area businesses, and other professionals interested in supporting or networking with small-business owners are invited to attend at no cost.
Additionally, local minority- and women-owned businesses are invited to apply for the chance to showcase their products or services during a pitch 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.
Hy-Vee is currently accepting submissions for local products or services for the pitch competition on the company website in the following categories of economically viable and/or previously tested products or services: food and beverage; product innovation and technology; and health, wellness, and beauty. There is no cost to apply. Applications are open through the end of the year.
A panel of judges will select one grand prize winner to earn $30,000. Plus, one first-place winner will be selected from each pitch category to win $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.
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