QVC & HSN are back at it. The multi-platform retailers announced Wednesday they are accepting submissions for a new round of brands to be considered for its brand and product search, The Big Find. An international project, The Big Find was designed to identify entrepreneurs with the next big brand or unique product for the opportunity to share their stories with their audience of millions. A round of 65 brands made the cut earlier this year out of 650 brands, each of which have had the chance to sell on one of the multi-platform retailers.

The Big Find, along with similar brand scouting initiatives, established QVC and HSN with a successful track record of launching and fostering the growth of new brands and small businesses via the power of storytelling and discovery-driven shopping experiences. The two multi-platform retailers have helped many entrepreneurial brands become national and international successes. These brands, in the realm of beauty, include IT Cosmetics, Tatcha and Korres, to name a few.

This second round of brands, which will be announced at a date still to be determined, is poised to be larger than the first round and will encompass nine total categories, featuring new segments such as home décor and innovations, culinary and electronics. These join the original apparel, jewelry, accessories, footwear and beauty categories.

Another 2020 distinction is that round two will be completely virtual. Submissions for all categories are open beginning July 8 through August 19. There will be a virtual judging panel taking place beginning September 14 through September 25. Qurate, the parent company of QVC and HSN, is suited to provide experiential retail through the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond, offering vendors a platform with an unlimited floor set that reaches millions of consumers.

QVC and HSN have further amplified their small business support this year with the Qurate Retail’s Small Business Spotlight initiative, in collaboration with the National Retail Federation (NRF) Foundation. Through this initiative, QVC and HSN have provided a visibility platform and a mentorship program to approximately 20 small businesses across the country.

The networks are also launching a new phase of the Small Business Spotlight to highlight Black-owned small businesses across their on-air and digital platforms, as well as Black-owned brands that are already QVC and HSN vendors.

Participating in The Big Find and becoming a part of the QVC and HSN vendor community has been an incredible journey,” said KJ Miller, Co-Founder, Mented Cosmetics. “The platforms have allowed us to share our story with a new set of customers and bring our brand to life in a way we would not be able to achieve through traditional retail channels. The teams at QVC and HSN have guided our way throughout this entire experience, providing us with invaluable feedback and support. We have already seen strong growth to our business, and we are looking forward to continued success together.”

Photo caption/description: KJ Miller and Amanda Johnson, founders of Mented Cosmetics, pitching their brand during the first round of The Big Find.