The Honourable Sarah Stoodley, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, today announced an investment of $371,715 to support the long-term sustainability of the St. John’s Farmers’ Market Cooperative. The funding will allow the market to diversify revenue streams and support its role as a hub for small businesses and community events.

The funding will support a three-year project that includes:

• Hiring a development and revenue diversification manager.
• Building partnerships with corporate entities and tourism agencies.
• Developing and launching pilot corporate events and workshops.
• Executing targeted marketing and promotional activities.

With a fully accessible facility, ample parking, a commercial kitchen and direct connection to local food and craft vendors, the market will use this funding to help position itself as a venue-of-choice in the St. John’s metro region.

To highlight this support, Minister Stoodley will ring the opening bell at the market on Saturday, March 22, at 9:00 a.m.

This initiative also supports the Buy Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada campaign by helping to ensure the availability of a market and event space used by local entrepreneurs. Every dollar spent on local products stays in our province, supporting families, businesses and the broader economy. Our government recognizes the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs and helping to make it easier to connect with buyers in our communities.

For nearly 20 years, the St. John’s Farmers’ Market has been a key driver of economic and community activity. It currently supports over 300 small businesses and attracts more than 200,000 visitors annually.

Funding for this project is made possible through the Government of Canada’s investment in the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Market Development Agreement.

Quotes
“This investment will help ensure the market remains a sustainable and vibrant space, welcoming local vendors, artisans and cultural groups while expanding its potential as a premier venue for events. The St. John’s Farmers’ Market is a vital part of our local economy and cultural landscape, providing opportunities for small businesses to thrive. By supporting this initiative, we are helping to create new opportunities for growth and sustainability.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

“The St. John’s Farmers’ Market is a vital regional economic driver and community hub. Today’s funding will help the market expand and innovate its operations to support more small businesses and invite more visitors to the region year-round.”
Honourable Steven MacKinnon
Minister of Jobs and Families

“We are grateful to the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for the opportunity to further grow and diversify the St. John’s Farmers’ Market Cooperative – a vital community hub. The market is best known for its Saturday markets, providing space and a supportive environment for the more than 150 small local businesses that operate under our umbrella. We also offer a unique and flexible facility that can host a wide range of events. We are excited to work with the Provincial Government, our vendors, and our community partners to expand and enhance the rental side of our cooperative.”
Pam Anstey
Executive Director, St. John’s Farmers’ Market Cooperative

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