Walmart, in collaboration with the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando, is excited to announce the return of the Walmart Road to Open Call event, scheduled for May 21, 2026, in Orlando. This pivotal event is designed to provide selected small businesses with a unique opportunity to pitch their U.S.-manufactured, ready-to-sell products directly to Walmart buyers, aiming to advance to the nationally recognized Open Call event. Orlando serves as the only Florida stop for the 2026 series, which forms part of a larger initiative focused on fostering the growth of small businesses, expanding supplier diversity, and enhancing U.S. manufacturing.
The Open Call is one of Walmart's largest sourcing events, where suppliers present products that are produced, grown, or assembled in the United States. The Road to Open Call series actively connects entrepreneurs with Walmart's sourcing teams, providing essential resources to support prospective suppliers' growth leading up to the annual Open Call, which takes place in Bentonville, Arkansas.
Interested entrepreneurs can submit their applications until May 1, 2026, at 10:00 PM EST via
Walmart’s dedicated page. Selected small business owners will benefit from personalized feedback, mentorship, and the possibility of receiving a Fast Pass, which allows them to present their products directly to Walmart's buyers with priority consideration.
Mark Espinoza, Walmart's Senior Director of Public Affairs, highlighted the significance of the Road to Open Call, stating, "This event provides a powerful platform for small businesses to access invaluable resources that help them scale their operations. By connecting entrepreneurs with our teams, we enable the provision of innovative, U.S.-made products to our customers while supporting American jobs and local economies."
Pedro Turushina, President and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando, expressed pride in the collaboration with Walmart for the second year running, emphasizing the opportunity it presents for the local business community. He said, "This initiative not only helps small businesses access national sales opportunities but also strengthens our local economy."
Since its inception in 2014, the Walmart Open Call event has successfully assisted numerous small entrepreneurs in becoming suppliers, invigorating local economies, and promoting innovation throughout various sectors. This partnership with the Hispanic Chamber underscores Walmart's commitment to promoting diversity and creating pathways for small businesses to thrive.
For media inquiries regarding the Walmart Road to Open Call event, please reach out to Mercedes S. via email. Additionally, further resources regarding the Hispanic Chamber can be accessed at their official website as well as on Walmart's corporate site.
In summary, the Walmart Road to Open Call event in Orlando promises to be a significant milestone for small business owners eager to showcase their products, connect with retailers, and take their enterprises to the next level. Don't miss the chance to be part of this transformative opportunity!