Today, Etsy is launching a new program that will allow a selected bunch of 50 designers to pitch products to a range of retailers including Nordstrom, Clementine, the Walker Art Center's Walker Shop, The Land of Nod, and Lou & Grey.
The contest, called Etsy Wholesale Open Call, is an extension of Etsy's Wholesale market, a membership-based marketplace where Etsy wholesalers can sell their wares in bulk to retailers. Members pay an one-time fee and also get access to workshops and classes on how to connect with retailers.
Starting today, wholesalers can enter for a chance to present their line or merchandise to a jury of retailers. There's also a sweepstakes element to this contest: Entrants will have the opportunity to land a Canon EOS 70D DSLR camera with EF-S 18-135 IS STM Lens kit or one of three PIXMA iP8720 Wireless Inkjet Photo Printers in a monthly drawing.
The new contest builds on Etsy's established relationship with Nordstrom, which has held two trunk shows in California featuring an Etsy designer.