Whether you are launching a Farmers Market or vending on your own, you will need to understand regulations and licensing guidelines as well as and opportunities, such as Link Up Illinois, that can expand your reach. This section may also direct you to vending opportunities and connect you to other vendors.

• CFPAC’s information on the Urban Farm Business License Proposal lists comprehensive answers to general questions and mentions other potential licenses for your business.

• Advocates for Urban Agriculture blog post explaining the most recent Urban Farm Business License Proposal updates.

• The City of Chicago’s Small Business Center “Business Licensing: What Do I Need?” page gives instructions on where you can apply for a license online as well links to other resources, such as free business consultants and the Venue Licensing Toolkit.

• City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events’ (DCASE) “Chicago City Markets” links to markets listing by day of the week and the city-run market Application form.

• Vendor Application for Logan Square Farmers Market

• Vendor Application for Green City Market

• While it emphasizes become a California certified farmers market, University of California Davis’ “Starting A New Farmers Market”  manual guides one through the process from forming an organizing committee all the way to managing vendors, bookkeeping, and advertising.

• The Farmers Market Coalition on YouTube have a wealth of videos on relevant topics, such as market operations, volunteers, and insurance.

• The Farmers Market Coalition “Market Manager Frequently Asked Questions” is a starting place for current and prospective farmers market managers and organizers looking to develop, expand, and improve their programs.

• USDA’s SNAP and Farmers Markets Page contains SNAP application information, equipment information, and resources and webinars.

• Experimental Station’s Link Up Illinois page provides information on free SNAP consultation to to Illinois farmers markets seeking to accept SNAP or to improve a currently existing SNAP program, match grants that double the value of SNAP benefits used at farmers markets, and accompanying application information.

• The Farmers Market Coalition SNAP Guide for Farmers Markets page outlines step-by-step information on starting a successful SNAP program at your farmers market as a national resources.