Attention all Latinx and Multicultural brands! Are you a driven entrepreneur with a vision of your product gracing the shelves of one of the world's retail giants? Look no further, because Walmart has an unmissable opportunity waiting for you! The gates to Open Call 2023 have swung open, initiating the thrilling countdown to its momentous Tenth Anniversary. Brace yourself for an exhilarating chance to present your shelf-ready products to the decision-makers of Walmart and Sam's Club, and seize the possibility of having them sold not only in stores but also on Walmart.com. This event is your ticket to success, allowing small and medium-sized businesses from every corner of the United States to shine brightly on a grand stage. Don't let this moment slip away!
The application period for Open Call 2023 is now open and will remain so until August 18, 2023. During this time, entrepreneurs from every corner of the country can apply for a chance to present their products to Walmart's decision-makers during the event, which will take place on October 24 and 25, 2023, coinciding with Manufacturing Month. This year's Open Call is extra special as it marks a decade of providing invaluable opportunities to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Open Call is at the heart of Walmart's monumental 10-year, $350 billion commitment to strengthening U.S. manufacturing by sourcing products that are made, grown, or assembled in the U.S. It was instrumental in Walmart achieving its previous commitment of $250 billion. Since its inception in 2014, Open Call has grown exponentially, with over 1,100 small and medium businesses participating in the last edition, making it Walmart's largest sourcing event to date.
The impact of Open Call goes far beyond just a one-time opportunity. Entrepreneurs who secure a "golden ticket" by striking a deal with Walmart see their businesses flourish as they gain access to millions of potential customers. The success stories are numerous, with many businesses expanding their U.S. manufacturing operations, resulting in the creation of new manufacturing jobs within their communities. Throughout Walmart's 10-year commitment to U.S. manufacturing, Open Call will have generated more than 9,000 opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses to grow alongside the retail giant.
But it's not just the golden ticket winners who benefit from Open Call. All finalists of the event gain access to valuable mentoring sessions with Walmart leaders and special guests, providing them with invaluable business insights and resources. Additionally, each finalist gets a unique one-on-one pitch meeting with Walmart and/or Sam's Club merchants, fostering further connections and opportunities.
In a bid to discover new talents, Walmart is taking its U.S. manufacturing initiative on the road with the Walmart: Made Local trailer tour. Launched on July 10 in Frederick, Md., this tour will make stops in Philadelphia, Cleveland, Indianapolis, and Chicago. The trailer offers entrepreneurs the chance to record a video to apply for Open Call 2023 and also connect with local Walmart suppliers who secured deals at previous Open Call events.
Moreover, Walmart has continued its commitment to promoting U.S. manufacturing with the Lead with Local Snacks initiative. By prominently featuring locally-made snacks in stores, Walmart is not only supporting local businesses but also meeting the demands of its customers. Over 130 Walmart stores are already participating in this initiative, with plans to expand further.
The significance of investing in local, U.S.-made products is not lost on Walmart's customer base. Surveys have shown that more than 85% of Walmart shoppers consider it important for retailers to carry goods made in the U.S. As a testament to this commitment, over two-thirds of Walmart's annual product spend is on goods made, grown, or assembled in the U.S., and this investment is expected to increase thanks to the success of Open Call and similar initiatives.
So, if you're an entrepreneur with a product that's made, grown, or assembled in the U.S., seize this opportunity of a lifetime! The application period for Open Call 2023 is now open until August 18, 2023. Don't miss your chance to be a part of Walmart's historic Tenth Anniversary event and potentially see your product on the shelves of Walmart or Sam's Club stores, as well as on Walmart.com. Apply now and take a step closer to turning your dreams into reality. Remember, this could be the beginning of an exciting journey toward growth, success, and making a positive impact in your community!