Since its inception in 1980, the Vernon Farmers' Market has been a staple for families and lovers of fresh and local foods. With $10,000 in funding from the government of British Columbia's Buy Local program, the market will attract even more customers by developing a strategic marketing strategy, embracing social media and new signs promoting the market.

Expanding their social media presence will allow the market to continue to grow and promote their vendors and products to a network of local consumers, businesses and agri-tourism visitors, while increased road signs will also create awareness of the market location and times.

The Buy Local program offers successful applicants matching funds up to $100,000 to launch or expand local food marketing campaigns.

Building the local market for B.C. foods is a key commitment of government's Agrifoods Strategy, a component of the B.C. Jobs Plan, to lead the agrifoods sector growth into a $14-billion-a-year industry by 2017.

The provincial government's Buy Local program is administered by the Investment Agriculture Foundation of B.C.

Quotes:

Minister of Agriculture Norm Letnick -

"Farmers' markets contribute well over $100 million to B.C.'s economy every year. The Vernon Farmers' Market Association plays a critical role in ensuring the ongoing viability of the agrifoods industry in the Okanagan. That is why this Buy Local funding is so important."

Monashee MLA Eric Foster -

"The Vernon Farmers' Market is very important to the community because it supports our local growers and producers who, in turn, provide fresh, healthy fruits and vegetables for our families. This funding will help them further promote the market."

Vernon Farmers' Market Association president Brian Zelaney -

"As the Vernon Farmers' Market enters its 33rd year, we are excited to expand the number of vendors, the types of produce and products available locally for customers, and the ability to expand our marketing strategy through our alliance with the B.C. government."

Quick Facts:

• The number of B.C. farmers' markets has more than doubled in the last ten years.

• The BC Association of Farmers' Markets represents a network of 125 markets throughout the province.

• The first Vernon farmers' market took place on May 8, 1980 with a handful of farmers and crafters.

• The Vernon Farmers' Market runs twice-weekly from April to October.

Learn More:

B.C. Buy Local program: http://www.gov.bc.ca/agri/buylocal.html

Vernon Farmers' Market Association: http://www.vernonfarmersmarket.ca/

B.C. Association of Farmers' Markets: http://www.bcfarmersmarket.org/

Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC: http://www.iafbc.ca/

Keep up to date on the latest in B.C. foods and beverages: https://www.facebook.com/FoodsBC

Media Contacts:

Kathryn Hardy
Ministry of Agriculture
250 387-1693

Ingrid Baron
Vernon Farmers' Market Association
250 351-5188