2026 Market Master Series!
The Market Master series is sponsored by the Illinois Farm Bureau.
Creating a Vendor Friendly Market presented by Rachel Bowen & Hannah Horn
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 – 12:00-1:00 PM – Zoom – This webinar is FREE of charge
Creating a Vendor Friendly Market explores how organizations can build stronger, more collaborative relationships with their vendor partners. This session highlights practical strategies for improving communication, streamlining processes, and fostering trust to create a more efficient and mutually beneficial marketplace. Attendees will leave with actionable insights they can apply immediately to enhance vendor engagement and long‑term success.
ILFMA Board Member, Rachel Bowen, is the manager of the Glenwood Sunday Market.
ILFMA Board Vice President, Hannah Horn, is the market manager for the Downtown Bloomington Farmers’ Market.
Getting Started with Link (SNAP) and Link Match presented by Kate Gurke
Wednesday, April 29, 2026 – 12:00-1:00 PM – Zoom – This webinar is FREE of charge
Getting Started with Nutrition Incentive Programs introduces the core concepts behind programs that help make fruits and vegetables more affordable for consumers. This session walks participants through the foundational elements of launching and managing these initiatives, from partnership building to program design. Attendees will gain practical insights and next steps to confidently begin implementing nutrition incentives in their own communities.
Kate Gurke is the Program Manager for Link Up Illinois.
Emergency Planning for Farmers Markets presented by Grace Hauser and Gracie Novacek
Tuesday, May 5, 2026 – 12:00-1:00 PM – Zoom – This webinar is FREE of charge
Emergency Planning for Farmers Markets provides market managers and organizers with the essential tools to prepare for unexpected disruptions. This webinar covers how to assess risks, develop response protocols, and coordinate effectively with vendors, staff, and local partners. Participants will leave with practical strategies to strengthen safety, continuity, and resilience at their markets.
Grace Hauser is the Market & Vendor Relations Manager for Green City Market.
Gracie Novacek is the Programs Director for Green City Market.
Targeted Special Event Days presented by Kelly Oswald, Ann Herrington, and Hannah Horn
Wednesday, May 13, 2026 – 12:00-1:00 PM – Zoom – This webinar is FREE of charge
Targeted Special Event Days explores how themed programming can boost attendance, deepen community engagement, and highlight local vendors. This webinar walks participants through effective planning strategies, partnership opportunities, and promotional approaches that make special events both impactful and manageable. Attendees will leave with practical ideas and inspiration to design memorable market days that align with their goals and community needs.
Kelly Oswald is the Special Event Specialist for the Village of Tinley Park.
Ann Herrington is the Market Manager for The Land of Goshen Community Market.
ILFMA Board Vice President, Hannah Horn, is the market manager for the Downtown Bloomington Farmers’ Market.
Scaling Smart: Sustainable Growth for Value-Added Businesses
This insightful webinar is presented by Glaciers End owners Derek and Libby Ervin. Initially started as a cottage food business, Glaciers End has scaled up to include a storefront with retail contracts. Derek and Libby are currently planning their move to expand into wholesale markets. Hear how they planned, financed, and overcame obstacles in the process, and gain valuable insights about how to grow and sustain your own value-added business!
View this webinar on the ILFMA YouTube channel HERE.
Previous Market Masters presentations can be viewed on the ILFMA YouTube channel, click HERE to access.