USDA grants seek to expand Michigan farm markets

Four projects in Michigan have been awarded grants totalling $235,103 to expand opportunities for farmers and healthy consumption through the 2010 Farmers Market Promotion Program. With these four grants awarded for fiscal year 2010, investment in the state through the program has reached nearly $600,000.
The Farmers Market Promotion Program projects have funded market promotions and advertising, increased use of electronic benefits transfer (EBT) at farmers markets, and created community centers throughout the state. With these four Farmers Market Promotion Program grants in Michigan for fiscal year 2010, investment in the state through the program has reached nearly $600,000.
Funding will support opportunities for producers in urban and low-income communities in Ann Arbor, Benton Harbor, Grand Rapids, and Lansing. All four projects seek to increase the year-round availability of locally-grown, fresh fruits and vegetables. The grants will also help to create the supply side by growing the next generation of producers through farmer apprenticeship and youth entrepreneurship programs.
Since its inception in 2002, Farmers Market Promotion Program has awarded nearly $14.5 million to increase direct-marketing income and consumer access to local farm products.