

Five Steps for Founding a New Farmers Market
This information was developed to provide a resource of options for new or developing markets as they begin organizing their farmers market.
This information was developed to provide a resource of options for new or developing markets as they begin organizing their farmers market.
Farmers markets are unique because they represent multiple, individual vendors under a single name, location and organizational identity. Before the first selling day, a farmers market will need to do many of the things that each vendor does for their farm. For example, selecting a name and creating a logo for the market.
One way to increase sales at the farmers market is to offer samples. Vendors need to plan ahead to make sure they are in compliance with sampling regulations.
Markets and direct marketing farmers can reach a wider customer base by becoming a FNS SNAP Retailer and accepting SNAP purchases.
The first step to forming a new farmers market is to form a planning team. Keep the team small enough so that it is simple, small and manageable.
Farmers markets can help strengthen a community by stimulating the local economy and creating local entrepreneurial opportunities.
Consumers who want to know more about where and how their food is raised are creating a bigger voice nationally. The increasing sales of local foods provides a bright spot for agriculture and a way to bring young farmers into agricultural production.
It seems rules and guidelines for growing fresh produce safely are constantly changing, as new laws and regulations are implemented each year.
Food hubs provide another marketing option to producers who do not have time to participate in a farmers market or other direct marketing venues.
It is strongly recommended that new and existing farmers markets draft rules to govern the daily operation of the market.