SOUTHERN MARYLAND – The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission (SMADC), a division of the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland, is pleased to announce the launch of the 2026 Southern Maryland Farmers’ Market Signage Mini Grant Program aimed at enhancing the visibility and accessibility of local farm products. By increasing consumer awareness and supporting local farmers, this initiative seeks to strengthen the agricultural economy across the region.
Farmers’ markets play a vital role in connecting residents with local farmers, promoting small agricultural businesses, and providing access to fresh, healthy foods. To bolster these community hubs, SMADC will offer $350 reimbursement-based mini grants to eligible farmers markets or umbrella market organizations in Prince George’s, Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties.
The funding will support the creation and installation of high-quality signage that promotes market presence, improves wayfinding, and reinforces the identity of Southern Maryland agriculture. Effective signage is essential in attracting new customers, increasing foot traffic, and clearly communicating market hours and vendor offerings, especially in areas where markets might be overlooked.
Eligible expenses for the grant include banners, directional signs, roadside signage, and informational displays.
All signage funded through this program must incorporate the SMADC/TCCSMD logos and have “SMADC/TCCSMD Supports This Farmers Market” near the top to ensure consistent regional branding.
To qualify, markets or organizations must be listed in the SMADC Southern Maryland Buy Local Guide as a recognized farmer’s market.
This is a reimbursable grant program, requiring awardees to provide proof of purchase and documentation of completed signage for reimbursement. Sign designs must be uploaded with the application to be approved by SMADC before purchasing. Only one award will be granted per market or umbrella market organization.
Applications are due by May 4th at 5pm.
Find the application here: https://www.cognitoforms.com/Smadc/_2026SouthernMarylandFarmersMarketSignageMiniGrant
By investing in improved signage, SMADC aims to enhance the visibility and success of farmers’ markets, support local farmers, and promote locally grown products throughout Southern Maryland.
For more information, please contact Sabrina Dobbins at SDobbins@smadc.com.