State Agriculture Initiative

Michigan Launches 'Farmers to Markets' Program with Nearly $500K Investment

By DishBloom Kitchen·June 30, 2026· Source: Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD)

Michigan's Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) partnered with the Michigan Farmers Market Association (MIFMA) to launch a new initiative called Farmers to Markets, backed by up to $492,000 in state funding. The program is designed to reduce barriers for farmer vendors who struggle to enter or sustain participation at community-driven marketplaces, with the goal of expanding locally grown food access for Michigan families throughout the full market season. It complements other MDARD programs like the Last Food Mile grant and Good Food for Michigan Project, all aimed at building a stronger regional food system. The number of farmers markets in Michigan has grown dramatically — from roughly 90 in 2001 to nearly 300 today — reflecting the state's deepening commitment to local agriculture.