Hy-Vee will host a networking and showcase opportunity for local minority- and women-owned companies in Minneapolis in February.
The Hy-Vee OpportUNITY Inclusive Business Summit will be held Feb. 9, at U.S. Bank Stadium-Polaris Club, in space provided by the Minnesota Vikings. 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. Local community groups and organizations, area businesses, and other professionals interested in supporting or networking with small-business owners are also invited to attend at no cost, according to Hy-Vee.
In addition, local minority- and women-owned businesses are invited to apply for the chance to showcase their products or services during a pitch competition at the summit. 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 at hy-veeopportunitysummit.com 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. The deadline to submit is 11:59 p.m. (CDT) on Jan. 12, 2023.
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.
Hy-Vee remains committed to inclusivity by expanding and enhancing product and service offerings that support various needs, lifestyles and backgrounds. The summit gives local minority- and women-owned businesses the opportunity to grow and prosper, while providing Hy-Vee customers with meaningful solutions to make their lives easier, healthier and happier.
Related: Hy-Vee Reveals Expansion Plans; New Now Next to Feature Startup, Incubator Products.