Ontario farmers are continuing to invest in stronger local food connections, with the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) approving funding for another year of program support to Farmers’ Markets Ontario (FMO).

The OFA board has committed $50,000 to a cost-share program delivered by FMO, building on the momentum and measurable impact achieved over the past two years. The program supports local farmers’ markets in promoting Ontario-grown food and the farmers behind it, helping drive traffic, awareness and sales at markets across the province.

“Farmers’ markets are one of the most direct ways Ontarians can connect with the people who grow their food,” says OFA director Marnie Wood. “Continuing this program means more support for farmers who sell locally and more opportunities for consumers to choose fresh, Ontario-grown products.”

This year’s funding will again be delivered through a shared-cost model, with participating markets matching 50 per cent of eligible project costs, up to $2,500 per initiative. Projects can include marketing campaigns, on-site promotions, special events and other activities designed to highlight local farmers and their products.

The decision follows a strong year for the program in 2025. With OFA’s $50,000 contribution, 33 markets took part in the initiative, supporting projects with a combined value of $155,863. Those efforts generated an estimated province-wide economic impact of more than $500,000, demonstrating the ripple effect of investing in local food promotion.

“This partnership continues to deliver real value for farmers, for markets and for communities,” says Elmer Buchanan, chair of Farmers’ Markets Ontario. “By supporting local promotion and innovation at the market level, we’re helping markets grow their reach, strengthen customer loyalty and showcase the important role farmers play in feeding our communities.”

The program aligns with OFA’s broader commitment to strengthening Ontario’s local food system and increasing visibility for agriculture through initiatives such as Home Grown, Local Food Week and Ontario Agriculture Week.

More information about funding criteria and how to apply is available at farmersmarketsontario.com.

Source:  Ontario Federation of Agriculture April 17, 2026 news release