A new program is available for local entrepreneurs to grow or test their products or businesses.
Community Futures Thompson Country launched the Farmers’ Market Incubator program last month and will be piloted at the Clearwater Farmers’ Market, which runs every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon in the Dutch Lake Community Centre field. The goal is to expand the accessibility to other rural markets throughout the region.
The first person to sign up for the program set up shop at the market May 15.
“The Clearwater Farmers’ Market and Yellowhead Community Services are thrilled to partner with Community Futures Thompson Country on this initiative,” said Joanna Hurst, Clearwater Farmers’ Market manager, in a press release. “The Incubator program will provide support to emerging ‘locally-grown’ businesses and strengthen our local food system.”
The program will provide supports, including subsidies for the use of a tent and table, reusable signage, reduced stall fees, mentorship opportunities, one-on-one support from an advisor and access to resources, such as webinars or guidebooks.
Those who participate are required to commit to at least six markets in 2021, provide feedback and purchase a market membership.
Additional supports are provided for food producers and processors, such as marketing opportunities, or for vendors, who have access to CFTC’s self-employment program.
The program is free for those who are eligible.
Funding is provided by the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior, which will allow the incubator program to run throughout the 2021 season.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the importance of local food security,” said Blair Gray, general manager of CFTC, in a press release. “The market incubator is a great opportunity to support local agriculture and entrepreneurship.
“We look forward to growing the program and our partnership with Yellowhead Community Services.”
For more information, visit www.communityfutures.net or contact Joanna Hurst at clearwaterfarmersmarket@yellowheadcs.ca.
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