Farmers Market Organization Grant

Farmers Markets provide an opportunity to impact local, agricultural economies and build the sense of community among its vendors, organizers and shoppers. Thriving markets often turn into a destination for visitors, creating a dynamic environment for community members to gather, while supporting agricultural vendors providing fresh, locally produced food and agricultural-based products. 

Grant dollars are intended to drive economic impacts and the spirit of building and growing a community at farmers markets by supporting: marketing, technology, education and engagement. Well-qualified applicants will be able to explain the how grant dollars impact the local economy and/or community and support Compeer’s vision of creating a world where agriculture and rural communities are dynamic, collaborative and thriving.  

Area descriptions:
Marketing: advertising, signage, promotional materials, consumer research studies, etc.
Technology: addition or enhancements to website, point of sale tools, etc.
Education: vendor or market staff educational opportunities
Engagement:  one-time cost of free to visitor enhancements to market like musicians, bounce house, face painters, etc. May include visitor seating or other life-safety needs

Qualifications
Qualified applicants must:
Be an established Farmers Market that:

• has at least three vendors of locally-produced agricultural products
• is free and open to the public
• has posted hours of operation

Be Located in our 144-county territory

Grant Cycle: Compeer Giving is committed to serving our territory, therefore past recipients may be limited on when they can apply again. Recipients of the 2025 grant will be qualified to apply again in 2027. 

Grant Details
Applications are open February 1 and are due by March 15
Grants are for up to $1,000
Awards must be spent during the current year market cycle
Organizations must submit a valid Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification (W9)
Applicants will be informed of their grant status six weeks after the deadline
Reporting will be due by October 1, failing to complete reporting may impact future eligibility

Out of Scope
Funding is not available for all grant requests. Compeer Giving recognizes the needs are vast.

Specifically for this grant opportunity, areas that are not in scope include: U-pick operations, road-side stands, CSAs and on-line markets, in addition to store fronts. Awarded dollars are not allowed to be used for deficits already incurred.

Questions? Contact [email protected] or call 844-426-6733.