Walmart 2026 Open Call program looks for locally made products that can replace imports and expand the retailer’s network of island suppliers. This year, four parallel18 alumni were among the businesses chosen to advance, and we’re proud to highlight them here!
About Walmart 2026 Open Call
Walmart 2026 Open Call was open to businesses that manufacture, process, distribute, or harvest their products in Puerto Rico. Selected companies met with Walmart buyers at the company’s headquarters in Canóvanas, and the process included training and guidance on proposals and supplier requirements.
The program is meant to increase its purchases from Puerto Rico businesses and add more locally sourced goods to its stores. Some participants may also have the chance to export part of their production to Walmart stores in the U.S. Walmart says earlier editions brought more than 300 local suppliers into its network by 2024. Products that reach shelves can carry the “Hecho aquí, para ti” designation in the retailer’s marketing.
Candid Society – pre18 alumni
Candid Society is a Ponce-based brand that makes accessories with positive messages about self-love, mental health, and resilience. Its founder, Nicole de la Rosa, started the company after dealing with a mental health condition herself and wanted to bring the topic into everyday conversation. The product line includes stickers, reusable water bottles, and coffee mugs.
Mikokos – pre18 alumni
Mikokos makes solid, plastic-free personal care products, including shampoo bars, conditioner bars, and soap, all handmade in Puerto Rico. The company focuses on natural formulas with little or no water. Which it says deliver results while cutting plastic waste. Mikokos was founded by CEO Kimberly Ramos, Chief Revenue Officer Obeth Seguinot, and Brian Colón.
Mucho Gusto – Xpand alumni
Mucho Gusto is Puerto Rico’s first 100% plant-based and gluten-free frozen dessert brand. Founder Laura Pérez began the concept in Hong Kong in 2014. Under a different name, Pérez then moved back to Puerto Rico in 2019 and rebranded to reflect her roots and culture. The brand opened in Trujillo Alto in 2020 and now has a shop in Río Piedras. Its mission is to make dessert inclusive. Mucho Gusto is for people with allergies and dietary restrictions, vegans, and anyone who loves ice cream!
Ron Artesano – Xpand alumni
Ron Artesano is a small-batch craft rum produced in Puerto Rico. The rum is distilled in a 100% copper pot still, aged, bottled, and labeled by hand. The brand recently opened Casa Artesano in Old San Juan’s historic Cuartel de Ballajá, its first metropolitan location, offering tastings and mixology classes. Founder José Muñoz González has said the company aims to produce at least 10,000 bottles to supply Puerto Rico and the U.S.
Together, these four companies show what Puerto Rican entrepreneurs can build when they have the right support. From a mental health brand that started with a personal story to a rum maker bringing its craft to the heart of Old San Juan. Each one has taken a meaningful step toward putting island-made products in front of shoppers across the territory. We’re proud to have been part of their journey! Congratulations to our parallel18 alumni; we look forward to seeing where their next chapters lead!