Grants Support Healthy Food in Minnesota

By Scout Nelson

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has awarded grants to twenty-nine farmers’ markets across the state to support their nutrition programs during the 2025 season. The funding comes from a one-time state appropriation under the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Assistance Grant Program.

Farmers’ markets are a key source of healthy, fresh, and local food for families who rely on nutrition support. These markets are especially helpful in areas with limited grocery stores. At the same time, they offer an important customer base for small-scale producers looking to grow their local businesses.

“Farmers’ markets help bridge the gap between producers and families seeking healthy, affordable food,” said Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. “By supporting nutrition assistance programs at farmers’ markets, we’re strengthening local economies and increasing access to fresh food for communities across the state.”

The total grant funding of $146,669.55 was awarded through a competitive process. Each approved market can use the funds for a range of eligible needs. These include hiring extra staff, creating flyers and signs to promote programs, buying EBT tokens for customers using benefits, and helping with transportation for those needing a way to get to the market.

To receive funding, markets must be located in Minnesota and participate in at least one nutrition assistance program, such as SNAP or WIC. These programs are designed to make fresh and healthy food available to more people, especially those with limited resources.

By improving these services, the grants aim to make farmers’ markets more welcoming and easier to access for everyone. This effort helps improve both public health and local economic activity, making it a win for communities across Minnesota.

Photo Credit:minnesota-department-of-agriculture