BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Walmart is accepting applications from entrepreneurs who want to participate in the retailer’s seventh annual Open Call, on October 1.

The coronavirus pandemic is forcing this year’s pitches to be conducted virtually, but the goal for the retailer’s buyers and prospective suppliers remains the same — get new U.S.-manufactured products on the shelves of Walmart stores.

Participants could secure deals ranging from a handful of stores in local markets to supplying thousands of Walmart and Sam’s Club outlets and Walmart.com, according to the company.

“During this year of unprecedented challenges for U.S. businesses, Walmart remains committed to sourcing products made, grown, or assembled in the United States. By investing in products that support American jobs, we are able to bring new exciting products to our customers, support new jobs in our local communities and invest in small businesses across the country,” said Laura Phillips, Walmart senior vice president for global sourcing and U.S. manufacturing. “Walmart’s annual Open Call event gives us a unique occasion to identify new suppliers who can meet our customers’ needs with unique and innovative products manufactured or produced in the U.S. For the first time, this year’s Open Call event will be virtual, enabling even broader participation from potential new suppliers. We know how important this opportunity is for many small businesses, especially this year, and we are looking forward to seeing the new product submissions and meeting potential new suppliers.”

The event kicks off Walmart’s celebration of U.S. Manufacturing Month and will include similar programming to previous years, the company last week. In addition to one-on-one pitch meetings with Walmart buyers, participants will have an opportunity to hear directly from Walmart executives and learn from company leaders during smaller breakout sessions designed to inform, empower and encourage supplier-hopefuls.

Walmart in 2013 announced a 10-year commitment to help boost job creation and U.S. manufacturing by buying an additional $250 billion in products supporting American jobs. Walmart’s Open Call is one way in which the company continues to invest in this commitment.

The deadline to apply to participate in this year’s event is August 10.