North Carolina farmers markets can expand their advertising budgets through of a new cooperative grant being offered by the NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. As part of the grant, the department will pay half of the total cost of advertising up to $2,500.
Said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler:
“There are more than 250 farmers markets across North Carolina, and many of them are operated by local municipalities and nonprofits. We hope these grants will help offset the cost of advertising for local markets, so they can better promote themselves and the farmers they represent.”
To qualify, all advertising must take place between March 1 and December 31, 2018.
Eligible expenses include advertising on billboards, magazines, newspapers, television, radio, and websites.
Funds can also be used for promotional items, signage, and brochures.
Funds cannot be used for expenses related to trade show exhibits, product labels, shipping, mailing labels, or postage.
Interested farmers markets should complete a pre-approval form, which is available by contacting NCDA&CS marketing specialist Kevin Hardison by phone at 919.707.3123 or via email.
The cooperative advertising funds are made possible through a $100,000 grant from the NC Tobacco Trust Fund Commission. Funds will be available until all money has been allocated.
Source: Kevin Hardison, NCDA&CS
Ed. Note: I’m biased, but hope Farmers Market Managers who receive funding will “advertise local” with news sites and newspapers in their areas.
