Texas Border Business
H-E-B’s search for the next great Texas-made product has narrowed from hundreds of hopefuls to 10 standout small businesses. The company announced the finalists in its 13th annual Quest for Texas Best competition, a statewide showcase of bold ideas, homegrown products, and the entrepreneurs shaping what Texans discover on H-E-B shelves.
Selected from a record-breaking 978 entries representing more than 500 companies across the Lone Star State, this year’s finalists reflect the ingenuity, flavor, creativity, and grit that make Texas’ small businesses so distinctive. Each finalist will compete for a share of $100,000 in cash prizes and the opportunity to have their products considered for placement in H-E-B stores across Texas. On October 8, the finalists will pitch their products and share the stories behind their businesses before a panel of judges selected by H‑E‑B in San Antonio, the company’s hometown. Judges will select the top four winning products, awarding $50,000 and the title of “Texas Best” to the Grand Prize winner, along with placement on H‑E‑B shelves. Additional prizes include $25,000 for first place, $15,000 for second place, and $10,000 for third place.
Since launching more than a decade ago, H‑E‑B Quest for Texas Best has uncovered more than 1,000 unique products from across Texas, ranging from cookies, coffee, empanadas, pickles, pho, salsa, and spices to beauty products, toys, home goods, gardening supplies, coolers, and household essentials.
To date, H‑E‑B has awarded nearly $2.75 million in prize money, along with marketing support, mentoring, and access to growth opportunities that help small businesses scale.
Information source: HEB Newsroom
