Last updated on September 8th, 2023 at 12:58 pm
H-E-B has announced the call for entries for its 10th Annual H-E-B Quest for Texas Best. Submissions will be accepted Feb. 22-April 6.
Qualified participants will compete for a combined $70,000 in cash prizes and the opportunity to feature their products on H-E-B shelves across the state.
H-E-B has discovered more than 960 products throughout the Lone Star State over the last decade – from cookies, coffees and roasted crickets to empanadas, pickles, pho, salsas and spices.
Non-food submissions have included beauty items, toys, home goods, household necessities, gardening supplies and coolers. They have reviewed more than 5,500 samples of Texas-made products and awarded nearly $2 million in prize money, complemented by marketing, mentoring and supplemental support.
“As we continue to expand the opportunities for small businesses in Texas and diversify our supplier base through programs like Quest for Texas Best, we look forward to seeing what our fellow Texans bring to the judges’ table during the 2023 competition,” said James Harris, senior director of diversity and inclusion and supplier diversity.
“Now in our 10th year, we are constantly amazed at the innovation and execution of unique ideas presented by our fellow Texans.”
Participants will have the opportunity to visit with H-E-B Sourcing and Supplier Diversity leaders about product development and best practices for submitting their product during special virtual information sessions held March 8, 9, 16 and 30. Registration is required and space is limited to competitors.
Interested suppliers and manufacturers can submit details about their products at heb.com/quest by 4:59 p.m. on April 6 for consideration.
After the period is complete, H-E-B’s business development managers will select the top applicants who will present their products before a panel of judges selected by H-E-B on Aug. 9 at Fair Park in Dallas. The panel will determine the top four products and award $25,000 to the grand prize recipient, the title of “Texas Best” and placement on store shelves; $20,000 for first place; $15,000 for second place; and $10,000 for third place.
