Ensuring a farmers market flourishes in today’s complex environment is a challenge worth tackling. Many markets thrive on dedicated producers and loyal customers who value local, sustainable, and fresh products. But how do you collect the right data to guide your decisions? How do you evaluate your market’s operations to implement timely improvements and support growth?
These are the questions at the heart of the first Academy Studio of 2026: “From Insight to Impact: Tools for Learning, Strengthening and Growing Your Market”
Date: January 28, 2026
Time: 3 PM CET | 9 AM ET
Language: English (with Spanish and Italian translation available)
Why Attend?
After conducting a global Capacity Needs Survey across more than 90 farmers market associations, World Farmers Markets Coalition and FAO identified a clear need: understanding how to collect and analyze data from farmers markets to inform strategies, strengthen operations, and guide sustainable growth.
In this session, we will explore practical tools and methods for ongoing data collection and evaluation, learning directly from experts who design and implement these approaches in diverse market contexts. Together, we will discuss how these insights can drive timely actions, improve services, and support the long-term development of farmers markets.
What You Will Gain:
- A deeper understanding of data collection and evaluation methods tailored for farmers markets.
- Insights into the feasibility and adaptability of these tools in different contexts.
- Discussion on how data can strengthen advocacy efforts, demonstrating the social and economic impact of farmers markets for both producers and consumers.
- A platform for exchange and dialogue with researchers and practitioners shaping the future of market operations.
Meet the Experts:
- Alfonso Morales, University of Madison – Wisconsin
- Selorm Akaba, University of Cape Coast
- Randi Gjertsen, Bondens Marked
Moderator:
- Ana Maria Huaita Alfaro, Specialist in Urban Food Markets and Food Systems
Whether you are a market manager, association leader, researcher, or policy advocate, this Academy Studio session will equip you with tools and ideas to turn insights into impactful actions for stronger, more resilient farmers markets.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, share, and grow together.
