How to Start a Farmer's Market

The concept of a farmer's market isn't new, but this method of shopping is becoming more and more popular as concerns over imported food quality rises. They also generate revenue for the community, give local growers an opportunity to market directly to consumers and make produce available locally in areas lacking nearby groceries. It's not difficult to start a farmer's market as long as you consult with local government and develop strong marketing tactics.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Vendor contract
• Marketing flyers

1. Visit your local Chamber of Commerce to discuss the concept of starting a farmer's market. They will know if one already exists or if people have tried and failed in the past. Since it is a potential benefit to the community, they'll likely support your project any way they can.
2. Attend a local city council meeting to begin discussions about the use of city property. Farmer's markets are ideally located on town squares or on the main streets of town where they will attract shoppers. Explain the benefits to the community, and if need be offer to lease the space for a small fee or agree to donate a portion of the market's proceeds to a local charity.
3. Secure the location for the market and check with county health department officials regarding food handling regulations. Farmer's markets don't just sell fresh produce so you need to be aware of issues concerning prepared foods like pies, jams and sauces being sold at the market's site.
4. Get the word out to vendors by having the local newspapers run a story on the upcoming market. You can also attend other farm markets to see how they're run and hand out flyers to vendors there.
5. Have an attorney draw up a simple contract for vendors to sign. Be sure to include the restrictions on what can be sold and how much the fees will be. It should also state penalties involved if laws or regulations aren't followed.
6. Advertise the market to attract shoppers. Be sure to notify the local senior citizen organizations as most states have food voucher programs for qualifying seniors that allow them to spend their vouchers at local farmer's markets.