Boosts Support for Small Businesses and Domestic Manufacturing through Launch of 'Grow With US' Program by Walmart
Embrace American-made! Walmart is going all-in with its support for domestic products through the "Grow With US" initiative - a program designed to empower U.S. small business owners. Let's dive into the nitty-gritty of this exciting new venture.
Waving the Red, White, and Shopping Baskets
Walmart's ruling the retail landscape has never been about boasting. But this time, they're making a statement: they're making it easier for homegrown entrepreneurs to conquer the complexities of retail and showcase their creations on a national stage.
Give a Small Business a Chance
The "Grow With US" initiative is a four-step program tailored for small businesses. Here's what's in the box:
- Financial Assistance: Sounds like the helping hand every entrepreneur needs to get started. Walmart Supplier Academy, offering 30+ e-learning modules on retail readiness and business fundamentals, is a key perk.
- Mentorship Opportunities: Dreaming of standing on the shoulders of giants? This program connects you with experienced retail pros.
- The Big Show: Prepare for the center stage. Product demonstrations abound, with regional events already penciled in for cities like Orlando and Austin (in May 2025), and the flagship Open Call event in Bentonville coming up in October.
- Simplified Registration: Let's face it - paperwork is daunting. With Simplified Registration, small businesses can easily verify their status using SBA certifications.
Homegrown Success Stories
The collaborative spirit between Walmart and American-made businesses is nothing new. Over 60% of Walmart’s U.S. suppliers are small businesses, a testament to the power of these partnerships.
And it doesn't stop there. Almost 70% of Walmart’s U.S. product spending goes to items made, grown, or assembled domestically. In fact, they've pledged a whopping $350 billion investment for 2021–2030, aiming to create 750,000 American jobs – talk about rolling out the red carpet for U.S. entrepreneurs!
The "Grow With US" initiative also steps in to help suppliers navigate tariff uncertainties, offering a lifeline in turbulent times, especially for categories sensitive to China trade tensions like footwear and electronics.
Heartening Growth and Resilience
With "Grow With US," Walmart is set to help thousands of small businesses access its national platform, providing the tools needed for scaling operations and going global. This initiative also strengthens the company's supply chain resilience by reducing dependence on international suppliers in crucial categories, ensuring stability for both themselves and the consumers.
Are you a U.S. business ready to take the plunge? Applications for the 2025 Open Call are scheduled to open on June 24. Dare to dream, U.S.A.!
Small businesses are the heart of our country, and initiatives like "Grow With US" prove that Walmart isn't just here for the sales—they're here for success stories, too. So, check out their latest venture and see what it can do for you!
- Walmart's "Grow With US" initiative, launched to support U.S. small businesses, offers financial assistance through the Walmart Supplier Academy, with e-learning modules on retail readiness and business fundamentals.
- Mentorship opportunities are provided within the program, giving aspiring entrepreneurs the chance to learn from experienced retail professionals.
- Regional product demonstration events are scheduled, including in cities like Orlando and Austin in May 2025, and a flagship Open Call event in Bentonville.
- Simplified Registration allows small businesses to easily verify their status using SBA certifications, making the process less daunting.
- By 2030, Walmart plans to invest $350 billion, aiming to create 750,000 American jobs and underestimated the potential of small American businesses in the personal finance and entrepreneurship sectors.
