COLUMBIA, S.C. — Walmart is accepting applications for its 11th annual Open Call event, inviting small business owners and entrepreneurs across the U.S. to apply for the opportunity to pitch their products to be sold on Walmart or Sam's Club shelves or on Walmart.com and SamsClub.com. Applications are open until July 15, 2024.
Open Call is part of Walmart's $350 billion commitment to bolster U.S. manufacturing by sourcing shelf-ready products that are made, grown or assembled in the U.S.
Since its launch in 2014, Open Call has reportedly provided thousands of small and medium-sized businesses with the chance to become Walmart suppliers and reach millions of new customers with their U.S.-made products.
At last year's Open Call, Walmart and Sam's Club merchants heard over 1,000 pitches from more than 700 businesses hailing from all 50 states. Company officials say Open Call offers an extraordinary growth opportunity for even more South Carolina small and medium businesses.
Entrepreneurs will have a one-on-one pitch meeting with Walmart and/or Sam's Club merchants. Entrepreneurs who secure a "golden ticket" — a deal for Walmart to sell their products in stores or online — can gain access to a vast customer base, enabling significant growth.
After earning golden tickets, Open Call winners often go on to grow their manufacturing footprints and create jobs within their local communities, according to company officials.
Open Call 2024 will be held on September 24 and 25.
Applications are open until July 15, 2024.
