Alibaba Group’s Tmall Global, the largest cross-border business-to-consumer marketplace in China, is launching Go Global 11.11 Pitch Fest, a virtual event designed to help small to mid-sized U.S. brands expand globally. The program will provide an opportunity for brands to test the China market and have the chance to participate in Alibaba’s 2020 11.11 Global Shopping Festival. In 2019, 11.11 generated $38.4 billion in sales in 24 hours.

Eligible brands will pitch their products during Go Global 11.11 Pitch Fest to a panel of industry experts. In return they will receive valuable advice on how to grow their business globally and in China. Selected entrants will be fast-tracked and launched on Tmall Global through the firm’s Overseas Fulfillment program.

“U.S. small and medium-sized businesses are facing challenges during this unprecedented time, but we know they are resilient and looking for growth opportunities,” said Tony Shan, Head of Tmall Global for the Americas. “We hope to inspire and enable many small and medium-sized U.S. brands to grow their business and broaden their customer base, while also bringing more high-quality American products to consumers in China.”

Participating brands must be e-commerce ready.

In the last three months, Tmall Global has launched more than 100 U.S. brands, more than double the number launched over the same period last year. Brands that recently joined Tmall Global include Supergoop; California apparel brand, Avocado; Washington home and kitchen brand, Sage; New Hampshire skin care brand, Badger Balm; and California cosmetics brand, ColourPop.

Product categories for Go Global 11.11 Pitch Fest covers all major retail verticals, including apparel and accessories, beauty and personal care, electronics, home, food and beverage, health and wellness, baby and maternity, toys, and pet products. The deadline for submission is September 4.  Pitch Fest will take place virtually on September 15.