LYONS, Neb. – April 13 is the last day to submit applications for USDA’s Farmers Market Promotion Program grants.
The Farmers Market Promotion Program was created through a recent amendment of the Farmer-to-Consumer Direct Marketing Act of 1976. The grants, authorized by the Farmers Market Promotion Program, are targeted to help improve and expand domestic farmers markets, roadside stands, community-supported agriculture programs and other direct producer-to-consumer market opportunities. Approximately $1 million is allocated for Fiscal Year 2007 for the Farmers Market Promotion Program, with the requirement that the maximum amount awarded for any one proposal cannot exceed $75,000. Entities eligible to apply include agricultural cooperatives, local governments, nonprofit corporations, public health corporations, economic development corporations, regional farmers’ market authorities and Tribal government.
“The Farmers Market Promotion Program is a great opportunity to help producers and communities cover some of the start-up costs of establishing a local farmers market. And it helps with advertising associated with farmers markets. Farmers markets are good for communities, bringing farmers and consumers together to create a stronger local economy and providing consumers with fresh, affordable produce,” said Mike Heavrin with the Center for Rural Affairs.
For more information on the Farmers Market Promotion Program Grants and how to apply, visit the FMPP online.
