BOISE, Idaho – Albertsons Cos. announced the opening of its annual application process for certified diverse-owned suppliers.

Eligible applicants include individual, small and mid-size businesses that are at least 51% owned, controlled and operated by women, Black, indigenous and people of color, LGBTQ+, veterans or people with disabilities who can offer products that appeal to the varied tastes and preferences of a diverse customer base.

The supermarket retailer’s Supplier Diversity Program also works with diverse businesses to overcome various barriers to entry. For many small and medium-sized businesses, access to working capital is critical to ensuring their operations grow and thrive, the company said.

Through a collaboration with C2FO, diverse-owned businesses can receive early payment terms on approved invoices, unlocking access to low-cost capital on demand.

“We believe that when we support and work with underrepresented businesses, we create an inviting grocery store experience that brings people together around the joys of food,” said Monique Lanaux, group vice president and chief talent and diversity officer at Albertsons. “Diverse suppliers enable us to continually deliver product innovation and cultural relevance to our shelves, ensuring our curated local assortments are inclusive of the diverse communities we proudly serve.”

Qualified diverse business owners interested in having their products considered for one or more of Albertsons’ 24 grocery banners, including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, and Shaw’s.

Applicants should submit application online no later than January 23 at rangeme.com/albertsonsdiversityprogram23.