Midwest grocery chain Hy-Vee will host a unique opportunity for local minority and woman owned companies to pitch and compete for awards up to $50,000 in business grants on Thursday, June 1.
The OpportUNITY Inclusive Business Summit brings a chance for local businesses to network, advance their business and take advantage of resources offered at the expo, learning opportunities through presentations and panel discussions, according to a press release from Hy-Vee. The expo also aims to be an opportunity for businesses to pull inspiration from each other. All are invited to attend regardless of intent to enter the competition.
The pitch competition will award up to $50,000 to three winners. First place will receive $30,000, second will receive $10,000 and third place will receive $5,000. An extra total sum of $5,000 will be awarded at the discretion of the panel of judges.
Pitches for the competition should fall under “economically viable and/or previously tested products and services: food and beverage, product innovation and technology and health, wellness and beauty,” according to the press release.
Submissions for the pitches can be entered at the Hy-Vee OpportUNITY website. The deadline to apply is May 9 at 11:59 pm. It is free to apply.
Hy-Vee’s OpportUNITY Inclusive Business Summit will be held on Thursday, June 1 between 7:30 am.- 4:30 pm. at the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center – Madison Ballroom, 1 John Nolen Drive in Madison.
