NCDA&CS to help local farmers markets with ad costs
The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumers Services is accepting applica-tions from local farmers markets interested in grants for cooperative advertising assistance. The funding is made possible through a $125,000 grant from the North Carolina Tobacco Trust Fund Commission.
"The state operates five farmers markets, but there are more than 200 farmers markets in North Carolina," said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. "This cost-share program will help our smaller markets spread the word about the locally grown products available in their own backyard."
Funding is available for cooperative advertising projects that promote North Carolina's farmers markets across the state. The department will pay half of the total cost of advertising, up to $2,500. Farmers markets wishing to apply must meet the following requirements:
- Must be located in North Carolina.
- More than 50 percent of vendors must be N.C. residents.
- Must complete a pre-project and post-project survey.
- Must complete a pre-approval form.
- Must use the "Got to Be NC Agriculture" and "N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund Commission" logos in any sponsored advertising.
- May use any type of media to promote markets except website design.
Funds are limited and will be allocated based on the order applications are received. For more or to apply, contact NCDA&CS marketing specialist Kevin Hardison at 919-707-3123, or email at kevin.hardison@ncagr.gov.
