Purdue Extension will offer the virtual Farmers Market Certificate program over four sessions in April to train market managers and vendors on best practices.
Farmers markets play a critical role in connecting local producers with consumers, fostering community engagement and promoting access to fresh, healthy foods. The Farmers Market Certificate helps farmers market stakeholders to strengthen local food systems.
The training is tailored for new and experienced market managers, vendors and community leaders. Participants will receive expert guidance about how to operate successful and sustainable farmers markets. Sessions will cover a range of topics that include the following:
- Food safety regulations
- Legal considerations
- Vendor relations
- Customer engagement techniques
- Conflict management
- Food assistance programs
“Farmers markets are vital to strengthening local food systems, connecting farmers directly with their communities,” said Sarah Hanson, Purdue Extension food systems coordinator. “This training gives managers and vendors practical tools to build successful markets that support local farmers and their products.”
The four virtual training sessions will take place on Zoom from 6:30-8:30 p.m. ET on Tuesdays from April 1-22. Registration is $75 and includes a market manager or market vendor manual, which participants will select during registration. Registration and more information can be found at https://bit.ly/fmc2025.
For questions, please contact Hanson at sspeedy@purdue.edu. If you require special accommodations to attend this event or need an interpreter or translator, please reach out to her by March 25. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
