Announcing the Michigan Farmers Market Shared Fundraising Initiative

May 12, 2025 | For Market Managers

Introduction

MIFMA’s Shared Fundraising Strategy Pilot seeks to raise donations from market shoppers at community-driven marketplaces by offering an opportunity to donate to both MIFMA and the marketplace at the same time. MIFMA will provide template materials (posters, signs, etc.) and manage a donation platform, which shoppers can access via a QR code. There will also be an accompanying online campaign. Marketplaces may customize the templates for use at their site and will work with vendors, staff, and volunteers to make sure the campaign is visible during the month of August, the month when National Farmers Market week takes place, so that their dedicated shoppers have the chance to donate. MIFMA will collect the donations and share 50% of the money back to the market where it was raised.

 

MIFMA would like to engage 15-20 markets to test this concept this summer. 

You’ll be opting in to: 

  • review draft template materials in June and July and help finalize logistical details
  • spread the word to your vendors, volunteers, and regular shoppers in July, and 
  • broadcast the QR code and invitation to donate throughout August, onsite at your marketplace and via your online channels.

 

You’ll get a stipend check from MIFMA equal to 50% of the funds donated at your marketplace in mid September.

 

Please fill out this interest form by 5/28/25. Reach out to office@mifma.org with any questions, and we’ll be in touch by 6/11/25 to get started. Thank you!

Shared Fundraising Initiative

General Information

Are you a current MIFMA member?(Required)
Is the information listed on MIFMA’s Find a Farmers Market feature complete and accurate for your market?(Required)

Qualifications

Legal considerations: MIFMA will accept all donations from individuals during this campaign and will issue a stipend check to each participating market organization in the amount of 50% of the donations received through that market’s fundraiser after the campaign has ended.
What is the operating organization of your market?(Required)

Market Capacity

Is your market currently asking individuals to make donations to the market, such as through a 'Friends of the Market' program?(Required)
Does your market have staff and/or volunteers who are available to engage directly with customers and encourage them to donate during the campaign?(Required)
Are you willing and able to provide feedback on materials MIFMA creates before the campaign and fill out an evaluation of the campaign after it is complete?(Required)