**United States**: Walmart has introduced Grow with US, a voluntary four-step initiative offering training, mentorship, financial support, and product discovery tools to help U.S. small businesses expand in-store and online, alongside upcoming Open Call events connecting entrepreneurs directly with Walmart buyers.
Walmart has unveiled a new initiative aimed at empowering small businesses across the United States. The program, titled “Grow with US,” was announced by John Furner, President and CEO of Walmart U.S., on April 29. This voluntary four-step initiative seeks to simplify the process for U.S.-based entrepreneurs looking to navigate the complexities of retail and expand their presence, both in-store and online.
Furner highlighted the motivation behind the program, stating, “We want small businesses to work with Walmart, but we know getting started can feel complex. That’s why we’re unveiling Grow with US, a new program designed to provide U.S. small businesses with the training, mentorship and resources they need to grow with Walmart.”
The Grow with US initiative comprises four key components designed to support small businesses:
- Supplier Academy: This includes 30 e-learning modules divided into four distinct learning paths, focused on the various aspects of retail.
- Product Discovery Opportunities: In addition to the annual Open Call event, the program employs the RangeMe tool to connect small businesses with merchandising opportunities.
- Mentorship: Participants will receive guidance from experienced professionals in the field.
- Financial Support: This aspect includes options like Walmart’s Early Payment Program and Bridge Marketplace, intended to alleviate some financial pressures on small businesses.
Walmart noted that over 60% of its U.S. suppliers are small businesses and that more than two-thirds of its product spending is directed toward American-made items. Furner remarked, “More than 40 years ago, Mr. Sam set a priority that still drives us today: supporting American-made products and the small businesses behind them.”
This initiative complements Walmart’s existing global efforts to support small enterprises, such as Crece con Walmart in Mexico and Vriddhi in India. U.S.-based small businesses interested in the program can participate by registering with Walmart and providing a voluntary Small Business Administration (SBA) certification or requesting verification through the retail giant.
In conjunction with the announcement of Grow with US, Walmart revealed that applications for its 2025 Open Call event will open on June 24. This event serves as a platform for small and medium-sized businesses to pitch their shelf-ready, American-made products directly to Walmart and Sam’s Club merchants. Scheduled for October 7-8 in Bentonville, Arkansas, the Open Call event is a significant opportunity for entrepreneurs.
As part of the lead-up to the Open Call event, Walmart is organising a series of “Road to Open Call” pop-up pitch events during Small Business Month. These sessions will take place in several cities, including Orlando, Florida on May 1; Kansas City, Missouri on May 9; Baltimore, Maryland on May 13; and Austin, Texas on May 21. These events offer entrepreneurs a chance to engage directly with Walmart buyers, receive feedback, and potentially secure expedited access to the Bentonville event.
Furner concluded by emphasising the importance of small businesses: “Small businesses are the backbone of our communities, and there are countless stories of how businesses, like Milo’s, are finding long-term growth and success with Walmart. We’re excited to continue providing support for and championing the achievements of these businesses every step of the way. Here’s to celebrating the spirit of entrepreneurship and the power of dreams, so Grow with US!”
Source: Noah Wire Services
Subscribe to Industry Updates
