Hy-Vee Reveals OpportUNITY Pitch Competition Brands

Hy-Vee said Thursday that 15 brands that are minority- and/or women-owned have been selected to compete in a pitch competition as part of the OpportUNITY Inclusive Business Summit, taking place June 18 in South Dakota. These brands represent three product categories: food and beverage, technology and innovation, and health, wellness, and beauty.

A panel of judges, including celebrity judge Chef Paul Wahlberg of the Wahlburgers franchise, will select one winner of the $30,000 grand prize, and one business from each category will win $5,000. Additional cash investments may be awarded.

The summit is free and open to the public. The event includes networking opportunities, one-on-one mentoring with Hy-Vee store directors, and insights from business leaders through breakout sessions.

Following are the competing food and beverage-focused brands.

• Every Body Eat, Illinois: a maker that specializes in allergen-conscious dietary restrictions.

• IFRI, Minnesota: Maker of Manbo Ginger Beer, the brand offers an experience of African cuisine while contributing to the economic growth and stability of BIPOC communities worldwide.

• Jefferson Beer Supply, South Dakota: A woman-led small-batch craft brewery that makes its own craft beer on-site utilizing locally sourced products and beer ingredients.

• Salas Salsas, South Dakota: A first-generation women-owned brand specializing in salsas.

• Soul Grain, Minnesota: A small-batch, gluten-free granola maker.