North Dakota Farmers Markets Receive New Grant Opportunities

By Scout Nelson

Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring has announced that both new and existing farmers markets in North Dakota can apply for the grants if they maintain a current profile on the Local Foods Map Directory. The funding is designed to help markets purchase marketing supplies that improve visibility and customer engagement.

“I encourage new or existing farmers markets in North Dakota to apply,” Goehring said. “Funds can be used to purchase branded tents/canopies, branded tablecloths, flags, banners, displays, signage and posters/flyers.”

The state has made $25,000 available for the program. Individual farmers markets may apply for grants up to $2,500. Funding awards will be provided on a competitive basis and applications will be evaluated based on need, community impact, and project plans.

Approximately 60% of grant funding will support communities with populations under 10,000 residents, while around 40% will support larger communities with populations over 10,000. Program officials say this approach helps provide opportunities for both rural and urban farmers markets across the state.

The funding may only be used to promote the overall farmers market and specialty crops in general. Individual vendors or producers cannot use the grants for personal business marketing. Eligible purchases include branded canopies, displays, banners, signs, tablecloths, and printed promotional materials designed to increase customer attendance and improve market recognition.

Applications are available through the North Dakota Department of Agriculture website. Applications must be submitted by Friday, June 12, 2026, at 4 p.m. Selected applicants will receive notification by June 19, 2026. Approved projects begin July 1, 2026, and purchases for reimbursement must be completed by Dec. 31, 2026.

Questions about the application and requests for assistance in setting up a Local Foods Map Directory profile should be directed to Jenna Nieters, local foods marketing specialist at jnieters@nd.gov or 701-328-2659.

The grant program receives funding through the Fiscal Year 2025 United States Department of Agriculture Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. Officials say the investment supports local foods, strengthens community markets, and helps specialty crop producers reach more consumers throughout North Dakota.

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