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WANTED: NEW FARMERS.

The Athens Farmers Market, together with partners, Community Food Initiatives and Rural Action have established a grant fund to honor Ann Fugate, former co-owner of Rich Organic Farms, mover and shaker of the Athens Farmers Market, long-time Rural Action board member, and fierce farmer advocate.

Ann passed away in May 2020 and her legacy lives on through The Ann Fugate Memorial Fund Grant for Beginner Farmers. It was Anne’s life mission to further the prosperity of the American farmer, especially in Appalachia and the AFMF Grant for Beginner Farmers will encourage farmers who are just starting out in Southeast Ohio by providing grants each spring that fund the awarded farmers with funding to participate as producers at the Athens Farmers Market, a nationally renowned farmers market.

The purpose of the grant is to reduce the barrier of entry into the market for fledgling farms while honoring Ms. Fugate’s life and leadership in agriculture. New farmers are needed to fill the growing demand for local foods in our region.

Who is eligible for the grant?

Farmers who raise fruits, vegetables, herbs, plant starts, flowers, meat, dairy, eggs, staple crops, or honey are encouraged to apply. Applicants must be applying to vend with the Athens Farmers Market for the first time, and must live within 150 miles of Athens, Ohio. There are two grants available for the 2024 market season (April 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025).

Click here to access the online application. If you are unable to access the online form for any reason, please contact us athensfarmersmarket@gmail.com.

Application deadline February 2, 2024.

Download the Official Press Release HERE