Its not surprising that farmers markets continue to be popular. They offer small to mid-size farming operations a chance to get noticed and sell their wares. In addition, consumers get to enjoy affordable, homegrown products that they may not have access to anywhere else. If you are hoping to jump onto the farm wagon and start one in your neighborhood this year, here are a few tips:

Partner with Others

Starting a neighborhood farmers market is always easier with help. So begin the process by making contact with people like your local SNAP/WIC office staff, church groups, non-profits, agricultural societies, the National Association of Produce Market Managers and government agencies. You may also want to join the Farmers Market Coalition and check out the Wholesome Wave. Collectively, they may be able to help you find a great market location, obtain liability insurance and share marketing costs.

Seek Financing & Incentives

Next, youll want to seek out financing and incentives as well as make sure that your farmers market can accept SNAP benefits. The list of resources to look into in the process includes, but is not limited to theU.S. Federal Food Financing Initiatives Program, Farm Aid, U.S.D.A. grants and the New Markets Tax Credit Program.

Buy Vinyl Tarps, Canopies & Tents

From there, wed suggest investing in fire retardant, clear vinyl tarps,colored vinyl tarps, canopies and tents. You may want to buy portable tables, chairs and banners too. That way, you can rent them out to the vendors or set-up a farmers market booth of your own.

OurClear PVC Vinyl Tarpsare perfect for shielding fruit and vegetable displays from flying insects. Each one is 20 mil thick and weights 18 ounces per square yard. The vinyl tarps also feature grommets every 24 inches, hemmed edges and heat resistant seams, which makes them great side wall companions.

The canopies and tents, on the other hand, are great for providing shaded display areas throughout the farmers market. You can also select fabrics that are resistant to water, mildew, oils, abrasions and sun damage. To learn more about obtaining those items and other vinyl tarps for your upcoming farmers market, pleasecontact usat (877) 811-3911. We can help you make your space look attractive to attendees in no time.