New funding programs for farmers markets

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) has launched two programs to assist communities with the development of farmer markets.

The first, the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Farm to Food program is designed to assist communities seeking to construct, rehabilitate, acquire, expand or improve a facility for the support of a three or four season farmers market. Funds are available to non-entitlement communities that are located in low and moderate income communities. The total amount of grant funds available is $1,500,000. The maximum grant award will not exceed $750,000.  Notices for intent for projects are bing accepted through August 25, 2010.

The second, the "Urban Farmers Market" program is designed to assist entitlement communities with established farmers markets. The objective is to provide funds for existing farmers markets.  This is a one time allocation and will require a local match of 25%. Grant funds will be available to qualifying communities in amounts between $25,000 and $100,000.  The total amount of grant funds available is $400,000. Requests for proposals are due by September 7, 2010.

Arnold Weinfeld is Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.

The Ann Arbor Farmer's Market.