Michigan’s New Farmers to Markets Program Supports Producers and Local Food Access

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and the Michigan Farmers Market Association (MIFMA) have announced a new Farmers to Markets program to help boost farmers’ sales at local markets and increase community access to Michigan-grown foods. Through Farmers to Markets, MDARD will invest up to $492,000 to increase the number of farmer vendors at community-driven marketplaces throughout Michigan. MDARD and MIFMA will use these funds to provide direct support to vendors experiencing barriers to market entry or participation. MIFMA’s Executive Director explains that, “The Farmers to Markets program will help markets attract customers while ensuring the markets have consistent and reliable attendance from farmers who are achieving viable sales.”