Increasing the Number of Farmers Markets Accepting SNAP: An Assessment of Barriers, Needs, and Opportunities

In 2016, 55 percent of the 300 farmers markets in Michigan now accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, a dramatic increase from only 2% in 2006 when MIFMA began its work. This assessment was conducted to explore the continued needs of farmers markets related to accepting SNAP Bridge Cards and how to bridge the gaps in technical assistance. The assessment included 25 percent of the 134 farmers markets not yet accepting SNAP Bridge Cards in Michigan.