H-E-B has announced the winners of its 13th annual Quest for Texas Best competition, recognizing five Texas small businesses for their products and awarding a combined $110,000 in prize money. The competition drew a record 978 entries representing more than 500 companies across the state.
The grand prize winner also earned the opportunity to place its product on H-E-B shelves, providing a pathway to reach more customers through the Texas-based grocery retailer.
Houston-based Hive Food Co. earned second place and a $15,000 prize. The company was among five businesses recognized for products spanning food, beverages and general merchandise.
The 2026 winners were announced Oct. 8, with the remaining five finalists receiving $5,000 each. Including those awards, the competition distributed $135,000 in total prize money.
The grand prize of $50,000 went to Sol Dias of Haltom City in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. La Fregona of Bastrop received the first-place award of $25,000. Hive Food Co. of Houston received second place and $15,000, while Dean & Peeler Meats of Floresville and Uncle Marc’s of Glenn Heights tied for third place, earning $10,000 each.
This year’s finalists showcased a range of Texas-made products, including frozen cookie dough, smoked sausage, infused honey, seasonings, Mexican street-corn sauce, pet treats and cocktail mixes.
James Harris, H-E-B’s senior director of Diversity & Inclusion and Supplier Diversity, said the program reflects the company’s commitment to helping entrepreneurs grow their businesses and expand their customer reach.
H-E-B’s support extends beyond prize money. The Quest for Texas Best program offers marketing support, mentoring and opportunities intended to help participating businesses scale their operations.
Since launching in 2014, the competition has identified more than 1,000 Texas-made products and awarded nearly $3 million in prize money.
Through the annual program, H-E-B continues to spotlight Texas entrepreneurs and products while creating opportunities for small businesses to expand their presence in the marketplace.
