Business and Market Planning for Farmers' Markets

A workshop for farmers who sell through farmers' markets, for farmers' market managers, and for other direct farm marketers. 

Sponsored by Michigan State University and supported by a USDA Risk Management Agency agreement, the program will help participants
        * Understand customers' purchasing behaviors
        * Fine-tune business goals for your direct farm marketing operation
        * Evaluate potential for organic, pasture-based or other certified farming systems to differentiate your product
        * Determine break-even points and profitability of individual items and product groups
        * Identify risks and compare options to address them
        * Learn more about the new Michigan Farmers' Market Association

Taught by Dr. Susan Smalley,
Extension Specialist for sustainable food and farming systems, and Dr. Barb Fails, Assistant Director for educational programs at the MSU Product Center, the program will include resource materials for participants to take home. Choose from four4 locations around the state.  Each is from 9am to 4pm.

 
Thursday, Nov. 16 Frankenmuth, Bavarian Inn Restaurant, 713 S. Main St.

Friday, Nov. 17 Kalamazoo, Western Michigan University, Fetzer Center

Monday, Nov. 20 Royal Oak, Royal Oak FarmersMarket, 316 East 11 Mile Rd.

Tuesday, Nov. 21 Traverse City, Waterfront Conference Center, 2061 US 31 North

 

To register:  The advance registration fee of $25 covers your lunch and refreshments.  Return the attached registration form by mail, with payment, to

Lanea Miller
MSU Product Center
80 Agriculture Hall
East Lansing, MI  48824

For more information:  Contact Lanea Miller at 517-432-4608 or [log in to unmask]

 

Susan B. Smalley, Ph.D.
Extension Specialist
C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems at Michigan State University
Department of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies (CARRS)
303 Natural Resources Building
East Lansing, MI 48824-1222

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517.432.0049 voice
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