Farmers Market Promotion Program

Wed, 05/19/2010 - 21:42 — Web Editor

Cash to improve direct producer-to-consumer marketing channels

How Does it Work? | Examples | Ready to Apply? | Resources | Learn More

The Farmers Market Promotion Program funds marketing proposals for community-supported agriculture programs, farmers markets, roadside stands and other direct market strategies.

Examples

1. In 2009, the Center for Rural Affairs received $84,123 from the Farmers Market Promotion Program to increase the number of Hispanic/Latino farmers in Iowa and Nebraska. The goals are to:

Establish a community garden training site.
Lead hands-on training on production techniques, and farm business management.
Provide legal and financial counseling.
Provide access to farmers markets and individual technical assistance.

2. In 2009, the Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont received $94,789 to strengthen farmers markets, community supported agriculture outlets, and farm stands in Vermont by:

Enhancing professional development opportunities for market managers, board members, and farmers.
Increasing access to direct marketing outlets in Vermont through the use of Electronic Benefits Transfer Programs.

How Does it Work?

Who Can Apply:

Groups of farmers/ranchers: The City of West Lafayette, Indiana, received $38,000 in 2007 to create a “lean and green” marketing program at the local farmers’ market.
Nonprofit organizations
Agricultural Cooperatives
Local Governments
Economic Development Corporations
Regional Farmers’ Market Authorities
Public Benefit Corporations
Tribal Governments

Specific Grant Uses:

Developing relevant financial and marketing information
Business planning
Improving market access and education for consumers
Organizing markets and direct marketing networks
Training and educational programs for new farmers/ranchers
Programs for professional development of farmers market managers, vendors and organizations
Agritourism activities
Electronic benefit transfer for federal nutrition programs at farmers markets and community supported agriculture enterprises