By Olivia Nygaard
National Farmers Market Week is more than just a celebration, it’s a reminder of how vital local food systems are to our communities. Whether it’s connecting neighbors with fresh produce, supporting small farms and businesses, or providing a space for cultural exchange, farmers markets are a cornerstone of resilient, sustainable economies. This year, we celebrated August 3rd through 9th!
At Farm2Facts, we’re proud to support these markets with the tools they need to thrive. From sales tracking to vendor performance and customer engagement data, our toolkit empowers markets to operate more efficiently and tell their story with real numbers.
The Purpose of National Farmers Market Week
National Farmers Market Week, celebrated every August, shines a spotlight on the impact of markets nationwide. It raises awareness about how farmers markets:
- Strengthen local economies
- Increase access to fresh, nutritious food
- Provide farmers and artisans a reliable sales outlet
- Build community connections
It’s also a chance for markets to engage with policymakers, community members, and media — and to advocate for continued support.
The Role of Farmers Markets in Local Economies
Farmers markets are powerful economic engines. According to the USDA, farmers markets contribute over $1 billion annually to the U.S. economy. They support entrepreneurship, especially among women, immigrant, and BIPOC producers who may face barriers in traditional retail spaces.
With every dollar spent at a farmers market, more of it stays local, cycling back through other small businesses and services in the community.
How Farm2Facts Helps Markets Thrive
At Farm2Facts, we provide markets with data-driven tools to:
- Track growth: Monitor foot traffic, vendor count, and customer participation over time
- Measure sales: Collect and analyze vendor-reported sales data to demonstrate economic impact
- Showcase engagement: Quantify volunteer hours, outreach events, and social media presence
- Build reports: Share clear, compelling stories with funders, local governments, and sponsors
We also offer customizable dashboards, tutorials, and office hours so markets can confidently use their data for advocacy, grant writing, and strategic planning.
Why Tracking Data Matters
Data gives markets a voice. It allows them to say:
“Here’s how many people we serve.”
“Here’s the value we bring to the community.”
“Here’s why we deserve continued investment.”
That kind of impact is hard to ignore, and it’s exactly what National Farmers Market Week helps amplify. When markets have the data to back up their impact, they gain the power to grow, adapt, and better serve their communities.
Learn more about National Farmers Market Week here!
