H-E-B Is Accepting Entries for the 2026 Quest for Texas Best Competition from March 11 Through April 22
Texas entrepreneurs and small businesses will soon have the chance to showcase their creations as H-E-B launches the 13th annual Quest for Texas Best competition, with entries opening March 11 and running through April 22.
The statewide competition highlights innovative Texas-made products and offers participants the chance to compete for $100,000 in cash prizes as well as the opportunity to have their products placed on H-E-B store shelves across Texas.
After submissions close, H-E-B’s Business Development Managers will review applications and select top candidates to move forward in the competition.
Those finalists will present their products to a panel of judges selected by H-E-B during the final judging event scheduled for October in San Antonio.
The competition awards $50,000 and the title of “Texas Best” to the grand prize winner, along with the opportunity to place their product on store shelves. Additional prizes include $25,000 for first place, $15,000 for second place, and $10,000 for third place.
Over the past decade, the competition has showcased more than 1,000 unique products created by Texas entrepreneurs.
Items submitted have ranged from food products such as cookies, coffee, empanadas, pickles, pho, salsas, and spices to non-food items including beauty products, toys, home goods, gardening supplies, and outdoor gear.
In total, H-E-B has reviewed more than 7,000 product samples and awarded nearly $3 million in prize money, along with marketing support, mentorship, and business development guidance.
We look forward to connecting with Texas-based innovators each year and providing exciting opportunities through this competition.
James Harris, Senior Director of Diversity & Inclusion and Supplier Diversity for H-E-B.
“I can’t wait to see what products are brought to the table this year. After 12 years of the H-E-B Quest for Texas Best, the creativity and ingenuity of Texans still inspire me.”
To help potential participants prepare their submissions, H-E-B will host virtual information sessions with sourcing leaders on March 18, April 8, April 15, and April 21.
Participants must register in advance and submit a two-minute video explaining their product concept as part of the entry process.
More details about eligibility, informational sessions, and entry requirements are available at HEB.com/quest.
