By Andi Anderson
The Michigan Farmers Market Association is launching its 2026 Market Manager Certificate Program with two in-person kickoff sessions designed to support leadership development and professional growth among farmers market managers.
The program is voluntary and aims to strengthen the quality and success of farmers markets across the state.
The Market Manager Certificate Program encourages market managers to build essential skills related to market operations, leadership, and professional standards. Participants who complete the full program will receive a certificate recognizing them as trained professionals.
This certificate provides assurance to market organizers and vendors that the market manager has received formal training in key management practices.
The 2026 program will begin with two in-person sessions held on January 16 and January 17 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. These sessions will run from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day.
The kickoff sessions will provide an overview of the program, introduce important management concepts, and allow participants to engage directly with instructors and peers.
Following the in-person sessions, participants will continue their learning through a series of webinars. These online sessions will be held every Monday and Wednesday evening. The webinars will focus on topics essential to farmers market management, such as vendor relations, market operations, customer engagement, and leadership practices.
The program will conclude on February 16 with final presentations. During these presentations, participants will have the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned and share ideas for improving market management in their communities.
The Market Manager Certificate Program is designed to improve consistency, professionalism, and leadership within farmers markets.
By offering structured training and certification, the Michigan Farmers Market Association supports the growth and sustainability of local markets and the small businesses that depend on them.
This program is especially valuable for market managers who want to improve daily operations, strengthen relationships with vendors, and create positive experiences for customers. It also provides recognition that can enhance trust among vendors, organizers, and community members.
Overall, the Market Manager Certificate Program provides a structured and supportive learning environment that encourages professional development while helping farmers markets operate more efficiently.
The kickoff sessions in Grand Rapids mark the beginning of a comprehensive training journey that aims to strengthen farmers markets and promote strong leadership across Michigan communities.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: Michigan, Rural Lifestyle