Hy-Vee aims to advance local minority- and women-owned businesses with a products and services pitch competition at the Hy-Vee OpportUNITY Inclusive Business Summit on May 25 at Kirkwood Community College's Linn County Regional Center in Hiawatha, Iowa.
The summit will include a small-business vendor expo, small-group workshops, and keynote presentations. Local community groups and organizations, area businesses, and other professionals are invited to attend.
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.
Three winners will be selected by a panel of judges. The company will award a total of $50,000 to three area businesses following the pitch competition ($25,000 for 1st place; $15,000 for 2nd place; and $10,000 for 3rd place).
Hy-Vee is currently accepting submissions for local products or services here. Categories include retail-ready products or services in food and beverage, product innovation and technology, health and beauty, sustainability, services, and entertainment.
There is no cost to apply. The deadline to submit is April 17.
Hy-Vee remains committed to inclusivity by expanding and enhancing product and service offerings that support various needs, lifestyles, and backgrounds.
Related: 10 Insights for Fostering Workplace Inclusion; Study: Inclusion is Key to Curb Exodus of Female Employees.