An important step in starting a farmers’ market SNAP program is to choose a merchant service provider and device to process EBT payments (and credit/debit payments, if desired).
Options for free equipment are currently limited. We strongly encourage all markets and farmers to consult with MFFM before acquiring any equipment, as funding opportunities are always evolving. Email [email protected] for more information.
MarketLink – free wireless EBT equipment from a national program. This equipment requires the market to have access to a smart-phone or tablet with data.
The Farmers’ Market Coalition offers a great resource in all the considerations to take into account when shopping for EBT equipment for your market. They also list 2 additional EBT equipment providers that have experience with farmers’ markets.
MFFM now offers Fiscal Agency Services for ME Farmers’ Markets that want to accept SNAP. Email [email protected] for more information.
These are big decisions! Plan & Strategize:
Discuss among market staff / vendors / volunteers how to best structure and promote your EBT/SNAP program. Decide who will be the point person for the market’s EBT/SNAP program and who will take on the various tasks involved in operating a successful program (central transaction booth, record-keeping, promotion, etc.). There’s no need to reinvent the wheel! Get in touch with us at MFFM ([email protected]), check out our annual workshops, and learn from these resources: