BENTONVILLE, ARK. — Ninety-two entrepreneurs received a “golden ticket” from Walmart’s eleventh annual Open Call event. The “golden ticket” deal gives entrepreneurs a chance to sell their products made, grown or assembled in the United States on Walmart or Sam’s Club shelves or on Walmart.com.
For the first time, Walmart also invited Walmart merchants from Canada and Mexico to provide an opportunity for suppliers to export products to international markets. Finalists also had the opportunity to meet with representatives from the US Department of Commerce to learn about the exporting process, according to Walmart.
“Shark Tank” star Daymond John made an appearance and gave business and pitching advice to finalists. “Golden ticket” winners gained access to John’s Mastermind class, a class offering business insights to help suppliers scale to fulfill deals with Walmart.
“Securing a golden ticket at Open Call grants entrepreneurs an invaluable chance to reach new customers, grow their businesses and create jobs in their communities,” said John Furner, president and chief executive officer of Walmart US. “Open Call is at the heart of Walmart’s 10-year, $350 billion commitment to products made, grown or assembled in the US. This investment not only ensures that our customers receive the products they need at affordable prices but also supports the creation of over 750,000 jobs.”