Metrics for Markets!

We’re excited to announce our Metrics for Markets training program! Produced with the support of Compeer Financial, this FREE program gives farmers market managers the tools they need to gather and utilize metrics at their market. Information will be shared through webinars, virtual meetings and instructional videos, and each participant will be matched with an experienced market manager who will mentor them throughout the program. Time commitment is 5-6 hours over a three month period starting mid-March 2023. 

Space is limited, click the button below to apply for this great opportunity and learn how to integrate metrics into your market!

We’re currently looking for mentors for the Metrics for Markets program -this opportunity is a great fit for experienced market managers who utilize metrics at their market. Mentors will receive a stipend for their participation. Click the button below to apply.

2023 Spring Farmers Market 101

Join us for an engaging, interactive full-day training! These workshops will cover market management, resource development, marketing initiatives, emergency preparedness, Link and Link Match funding opportunities, networking, and more. Farmers Market staff, vendors, volunteers, and others will discover new information and ideas to improve your market, business, and community.

Workshops are currently scheduled for the following dates/ locations, click button below to register. More locations coming soon!

NEW! Virtual Farmers Market 101 for Vendors and Managers – this shortened version of the workshop will be offered online from 6:00-8:30PM via zoom. Use buttons below to register.

FM 101 workshops are supported by an Illinois Specialty Crop Grant from the Illinois Department of Agriculture. 

Emergency Preparedness for Farmers Markets

Join us for these informative courses which provide valuable information to help you keep your vendors, staff and customers safe!

Webinars will be accessed via Zoom, and registrants will be given a link to access a recording for future review. Use the buttons below each presentation to register.

Market Masters webinar series is supported by a grant from the Illinois Farm Bureau. 

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Creating an Emergency Plan for Your Market
April 10 1:00-2:00PM

Illinois is no stranger to severe weather events and other serious situations! Learn about the different risks that farmers markets face, and how to minimize their impact. This presentation, led by Taylor Choy, Operations Manager for Green City Market will give you the tools to create an emergency plan to deal with  unexpected weather, heat emergency, and more. Click the button below to register.

Mitigating Safety Risks, Securing Public Spaces
April 18 & 20 4:00-5:00PM

Farmers Markets and large events face a variety of security risks. and are potentially vulnerable to violence, bad actors and other potential threats because of their accessibility and large number of targets. These webinars will cover vital information to help keep your market safe!

This two part series, led by Steve Lyddon, ProtectiveSecuriy Adviser with U.S. Department of Homeland Security, covers mitigating public safety risks (part one) and provides information about accessing resources to help assess and secure your public space (part two).

Attendance to part one and part two of the series is recommended to get the full benefit, click the button below to register.

Want to see or review our recent Social Media Webinar series? These and many other past presentations can be accessed through ILFMA’s YouTube channel! 

Illinois Certified Farmers Market Manager Course
January – March 2024

Managing a farmers market is challenging and requires a wide range of knowledge and skills. ILFMA is pleased to offer a Certified Farmers Market Manager program for Illinois farmers market managers! Learn how to address real-world market issues and receive invaluable training in best practices for successful farmers markets.

This 9 week interactive program meets weekly from 6:30-8PM via Zoom.  Optional weekly technical assistance sessions for individual concerns or topics of interest.

The ILFMA Certified Farmers Market Manager Program is sponsored by the Illinois Farm Bureau. 

All virtual; interactive utilizing Zoom and Google Classroom
Recommended but not required: Completing ILFMA Farmers Market Manager Bootcamp or market manager with at least one year of experience.

Save the date for 2024 Everything Local Conference!

January 17-19, 2024
Springfield, IL
Hosted in partnership with Illinois Specialty Growers Association and the Illinois Farm Bureau.

Let’s Raise the Bar!
ILFMA Fundraiser at Buzz Bomb Brewing Co.

Thanks to all who joined us at our fundraiser at Buzz Bomb Brewing Co. Attendees enjoyed craft beer and cider, delicious food, and a chance to relax and connect in Buzz Bomb’s comfortable cozy space. We appreciate your support of ILFMA!