May 21st was a BIG day at the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE)! Twenty of our RICE Stakeholders pitched their businesses to Walmart executives for a shot at a “fast-pass” to the Walmart Open for Small Business program in Bentonville this October! These talented entrepreneurs received real-time feedback and coaching from industry experts. It’s moments like these that highlight the dynamism and creativity thriving within our RICE community. Congratulation to the 12 “fast-pass” winners:
Kayla’s Italian Ice | IG: @kaylasitalianice | https://kaylasitalianice.com/
Scotch Boyz | IG: @scotchboyz | https://www.scotchboyz.com/
Yacht Club Access | IG: @shopyachtclubaccess | https://www.yachtclubaccess.com/
My Roots are Rich | IG: @myrootsarerich | https://myrootsarerich.org/
Kindred Paper | IG: @kindredpapr | https://ourkindredpaper.com/
Emmerse | IG: @getemmersed | https://www.getemmersed.com/
HoneySuckle Moon | IG: @honeysucklemoon | https://iamhoneysucklemoon.com/
S-Secrets | IG: @ssecrets2018 | https://s-secrets.com/
Khroma Kolors | IG: @khromakolors | https://khromakolors.com/
Essence Tree | IG: @essencetreelife | https://essencetree.com/
Girl Supps | IG: @girlsupps | https://girlsupps.com/
Red Drop | IG: @reddrop | https://tryreddrop.com/
We’re so proud of these entrepreneurs for stepping up and demonstrating their potential on such a prestigious platform. It’s truly inspiring to see such a diverse range of innovative products and services being recognized. From delicious treats like Kayla’s Italian Ice to unique lifestyle brands like Yacht Club Access, and wellness-focused companies like HoneySuckle Moon and Girl Supps, there’s so much creativity and entrepreneurial spirit on display. Check out the video recap of this special occasion: RICE x Walmart Open Call on the Road Fast Pass Event (youtube.com) or view photos from the gallery here: RICE X WALMART OPEN CALL 5.21.2024 :: Adrian Shelby Photography (sproutstudio.com)
We want to thank our friends at Walmart for their continuous support and belief in our mission! Open call applications are now open until July 15, 2024. Don’t wait to apply if you are interested in landing your products on the shelves of Walmart. Make your application here: Open Call 2024 (walmart.com)
Congratulations to all of the RICE Stakeholders that are on the road to Bentonville! Subscribe and stay tuned to the Russell Center YouTube channel for more details and upcoming videos highlighting the incredible journey of these inspiring Black entrepreneurs.