Walmart Launches Powerful ‘Grow With US’ Program To Empower Small Businesses

Walmart is strengthening its commitment to American-made products with new initiatives like the Grow with US program.

Per a press release, this effort by the superstore supports small businesses by offering valuable tools, resources, and opportunities to help them succeed and grow. By expanding access to the retailer’s nationwide network, the program helps local entrepreneurs bring their products to more customers while boosting the U.S. economy.

The company believes small businesses play a powerful role in bringing unique products to market. These different retail products, in turn, meet the diverse needs of customers and communities nationwide.

The release states that over 60% of the company’s U.S. suppliers are small businesses. This new initiative will provide small United States businesses with the training, mentorship, and resources they need to grow with Walmart.

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This four-step program includes:

1. Learn: Walmart’s Supplier Academy provides a complimentary, customized curriculum aimed at helping small businesses thrive in its U.S. stores and on its online Marketplace. The program features 30 digital training modules divided into four core learning tracks: Welcome to Walmart 101, Retail Readiness, Business Essentials, and Advanced Strategies.
2. Get discovered: Companies have multiple avenues to showcase their products, including the annual U.S. Open Call, the RangeMe discovery platform, and opportunities on Walmart Marketplace.
3. Mentorship: Participants selected for the program are paired with seasoned mentors who offer insights and support for navigating the complexities of retail.
4. Financing: Qualifying small businesses may apply for financial assistance through Walmart’s Early Payment Program and Bridge Marketplace initiative.

Additionally, the retailer announced that any U.S. small business interested in participating in Grow with US can get started by registering as a small business. Each company must provide a voluntary SBA certification or request small business verification.

Small Businesses Can Attend Walmart’s Annual Open Call

Walmart’s annual open call is the opportunity for selected entrepreneurs to meet directly with Walmart and Sam’s Club merchants to present their shelf-ready products. These meetings have the potential to secure brand deals with the retailer that will get these pitched products onto store shelves or online.

The company believes that by securing a strong American supply chain, stronger communities will follow thereafter. Therefore, the open call provides small business entrepreneurs the opportunity to effectively grow their businesses and their U.S. manufacturing footprint.

Through its commitment to sourcing more American-made products, the superstore is investing billions of dollars in the U.S. economy, opening doors for small and mid-sized companies to succeed. The program’s focus is on long-term partnerships that help businesses grow sustainably.

Walmart Marketplace is another way the company assists small businesses. This online platform allows third-party sellers to list their products on Walmart.com, gaining exposure to a large and loyal customer base without the overhead of a physical store.