The group stage consisted of 40 teams: all remaining teams that competed across the SPFL in 2021–22, and the 2021–22 Highland Football League champions (Fraserburgh) and runners-up (Buckie Thistle), and the 2021–22 Lowland Football League champions (Bonnyrigg Rose Athletic).

The three group winners with the highest points total and the European entrants were seeded.

The draw for the group stage took place on 25 May 2022 and was broadcast live on FreeSports & the SPFL YouTube channel.

[2] The draw took place on 24 July 2022, following the Aberdeen v Raith Rovers match.

The draw took place on 31 August 2022, following the Ross County v Celtic match.