This guide takes organizers through the process of establishing a Farmers Market Association. The authors explore topics from market purpose to establishing by-laws to dealing with the resignation of a member of the board. They also give instructions on how to legalize the market as a non-profit. This resource is from New York; some of the information may not be relevant to organizers in Western North Carolina.

This document from Mississippi State University's extension system overviews the importance of farmers markets and answers some important questions when trying to organize a farmers market. It covers topics such as who can sell at the market and how many producers are needed, what days the market should be open, and for how long it should be open.

Authors Jost and Taylor-Pucket, with support from the USDA-RMA and the Kansas Rural Center, outline innovative ways to spread the word about farmers markets. Their suggestions include music, prepared farm products, t-shirts, editorial coverage, participating in community events, and connecting with customers through the internet, newsletters, and other communications technologies. Creating a “market experience,” which creates a buzz in the community, is the most important part of advertising in the opinions of these authors.

The authors develop a step-by-step outline for developing a permanent farmers market. They illuminate the process from organizing a steering committee to eliciting consumer and vendor interest. They also argue that planning must include a seasonal aspect to prepare for the different products of each season and that a market biography should be prepared for potential vendors and/or investors. They lay out a timeline for meetings, how they should be structured, and who should participate. The end of the article contains examples of surveys that could be used to understand the needs and desires of the consumers and vendor which the market is intended to serve.

This link leads to the USDA webpage on food stamps which would be useful to market organizers looking to accept Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) purchases.

The author develops a framework for establishing permanent farmers markets in communities. He divides this framework into five categories – market feasibility, sponsorship, location, and facilities. Further, he touches on the traps, pitfalls, and opportunities that one may face in establishing and operating a farmers market. Charts and timelines are included as examples of information needed to get a market off the ground.

The author, COO of Old Town Farmers Market in Wichita, KS, argues that demonstrations by Chefs can bring customers and publicity to farmers markets. These demonstrations show market patrons how to cook seasonal meals, how to blend unfamiliar ingredients, and how to best utilize fresh food. For chefs, these demonstrations offer an opportunity to showcase their culinary talents and advertise their respective restaurants. This article also includes some of the organizational strategies necessary to host cooking demonstrations by chefs.

This toolkit, assembled by ASAP and the USDA RMA, provides a brief overview of marketing opportunities at farmers markets, outline criteria to determine if markets are right for the specific needs and desires of farmers, and quickly cover food safety and regulatory compliance. They also provide a summary of planning and budgeting for those interested in participating in farmers markets, providing worksheets and frameworks to ensure profitability. Lastly, the authors suggest potential niche markets, such as ethnic or organic foods, which may facilitate marketing.