Minnesota Farmers’ Market Association 2026

MFMA is in an exciting growth stage, building on a decade or so of solid foundational work to reach an all-time high number of 402 farmers’ markets and their 10,000+ vendors across MN and the Tribal Nations. Educational materials have been developed for markets and vendors in our Farmers’ Market Academy. Our Cottage Foods Academy is a 1-stop shop of information for Minnesota’s rapidly growing cottage foods industry. To better serve our local foods industry, several of our high-use publications are now in multiple languages.

Recognizing that MFMA plays a pivotal role in the local foodshed, we recently acquired a Minnesota Department of Ag food handlers license. Now, we can aggregate food from farmers across the state and distribute it where it is needed. MFMA recognizes that our state is stronger because of the incredible diversity of our communities. Therefore, we have an increasing focus on multilingual programming and resource development that serves our whole state. The perfect person for this role is passionate with an entrepreneurial drive. This person must be excited to help MFMA continue core programming while evolving to meet new needs. 

Requirements

The Communications Director (CD) is responsible for maintaining and creating content on a variety of social media, communication platforms, and television segments. The CD is responsible for maintaining periodic contact with Minnesota farmers’ markets and their managers, coordinating communications and other outreach as well as keeping a ‘pulse’ on the challenges and successes with which each market is dealing. Additionally, the CD will be involved with various special projects throughout the year.

The CD must be a self-starter, work effectively with MFMA staff, and be able to work independently to reach MFMA’s goals. The CD is expected to travel to farmers’ markets, as assigned, to obtain photos, video footage, and information for social media and website platforms. CD will work to foster effective relationships within the MFMA community and with its business partners and create innovative campaigns. Being bilingual will be a plus. Hours will vary depending on the season, with an average of 24 hours per week.

Communications

• Develop an annual communications campaign that incorporates social media as well as mainstream media, that:

• • Supports farmers’ markets, their vendors, and their customers

  • Promotes MFMA projects

  • Builds the viability of the Minnesota local foodshed

• Design marketing and outreach materials as needed.

• Work with MFMA staff to create and distribute messages to further MFMA’s mission and vision, communicating with MFMA members as needed.

• Testify at public hearings as appropriate.

Networking

• Stay aware of current and relevant media messaging locally, statewide, regionally, and nationally.

• Continue to maintain and grow MFMA’s list of Minnesota, national, and international contacts and rising stars in the local food industry.

• As appropriate, attend meetings, workshops, and conferences that pertain to farmers’ markets, food entrepreneurship, food safety, and other market-related fields.

Administrative

• Learn the different regulatory bodies responsible for rules and laws regulating local food.

• Update website as needed.

Special Projects

Work Environment 

The CD is an employee of MFMA, reporting to MFMA’s Executive Director and works with other MFMA staff to present a cohesive and effective MFMA message. The CD can work from home or from MFMA’s office space in St. Paul. If the CD works from a home office, their home office provides internet service, cell phone use, office equipment, and software. 

Compensation

Flexible work schedule. Base rate wage is $25 / hour, with an average of 24 hours per week. Twelve paid holidays. Mileage reimbursed at IRS rate. All approved expenses reimbursed. Opportunity for extra compensation based on extra projects.

To Apply

For questions, please contact MFMA executive director Kathy Zeman, kzeman@mfma.org or (507) 664-9446.  To apply, please email your resume and cover letter to info@mfma.org. The preferred deadline to apply is April 30, 2026.