In a celebration of Texas's rich entrepreneurial spirit, H-E-B proudly announced the winners of the 11th Annual H-E-B Quest for Texas Best competition, held at Dallas’ iconic Fair Park. This year, four outstanding small businesses emerged victorious, taking home a total of $70,000 in prize money and the coveted opportunity to have their products featured on H-E-B store shelves across the state.

The 2024 H-E-B Quest for Texas Best Winners Are:

• Grand Prize Winner ($25,000): Birria Queen – Birria Seasoning Bombs – Austin
• First Place Winner ($20,000): Hess Street Foods – Chorizo seasoning paste – San Antonio
• Second Place Winner ($15,000): Certified Country Lemonade – Frozen Lemonade & Sweet Tea – Austin
• Third Place Winner ($10,000): Encina – Blue Corn Butterscotch Pancake Mix – Dallas

The competition, which has become a hallmark of H-E-B’s commitment to supporting local businesses, saw an impressive array of entries from across the Lone Star State. From gourmet foods to innovative household items, the creativity and passion of Texas entrepreneurs were on full display. "A big, Texas-sized congratulations to each of this year’s winners and our finalists – small businesses that keep our communities vibrant and drive innovation across our state," said James Harris, Senior Director of Diversity & Inclusion and Supplier Diversity for H-E-B. "We continue to be impressed by the passionate entrepreneurial spirit our finalists showcase, and we look forward to sharing their creative products with more Texans."

Meet the Judges and the Finalists

The final judging panel, comprised of esteemed H-E-B Partners and industry leaders, included:

Roxanne Orsak, H-E-B Chief Operating Officer and President of Joe V’s Smart Shop

Winell Herron, H-E-B Group Vice President of Public Affairs, Diversity, and Environmental Affairs

Kyle Stevens, H-E-B Senior Vice President - Drugstore, Beauty, and General Merchandise

Leah Luedeker, Group Vice President, Border Region

Chef Sean Robertson, Product Development Chef

Erin Booke, former Texas Food Writer and Editor, freelance writer

Chet Garner, Creator, Host, and Executive Producer of Texas travel show, *The Daytripper*

These judges were tasked with evaluating a diverse range of products based on quality, marketability, and the unique Texas flair that makes them stand out. The competition was fierce, with submissions from 470 creative entrepreneurs representing over 118 cities across Texas. 

A Legacy of Success

Since its inception in 2014, the H-E-B Quest for Texas Best competition has been instrumental in bringing more than 1,000 unique food items, beverages, and general merchandise to store shelves. H-E-B’s dedication to nurturing local talent is evident in the $2.2 million in prize money awarded over the years, as well as the comprehensive marketing, mentoring, and business development support provided to participants.

In recognition of their exceptional success, H-E-B has honored 55 Quest for Texas Best suppliers with the prestigious H-E-B Million Dollar Club belt buckle, a symbol of achieving $1 million in sales. This accolade highlights the impact that the competition has had not only on the businesses themselves but also on the broader Texas economy.

The Road Ahead

As these four small businesses prepare to see their products on H-E-B shelves, they join a growing list of Texas entrepreneurs who have turned their dreams into reality through the Quest for Texas Best competition. H-E-B’s continued investment in local businesses reinforces the company’s commitment to fostering innovation, diversity, and community growth throughout Texas.

The winners’ success stories are just beginning, and Texans across the state can look forward to discovering these new and exciting products at their local H-E-B stores. Stay tuned as these small businesses bring a taste of Texas to your shopping cart, and don’t forget to support your local entrepreneurs who are driving the Texas economy forward.

For more info, visit HEB.com