Community Foundation Invests in the Future of Local Food and Community Through a $53,000 Grant to the Town Square Farmers Market

​Grand Forks, ND – The Community Foundation of Grand Forks, East Grand Forks & Region in partnership with the Knight Foundation Donor-Advised Fund have awarded a $53,000 grant to the Town Square Farmers Market to advance their exploration of a downtown food hub and public market hall. This year-long initiative will complete a comprehensive site feasibility study while providing targeted technical assistance to help local producers build the capacity, infrastructure, and operational knowledge needed to scale sustainably.

"When we invest in local food systems, we're building economic resilience across the region. This grant removes real barriers that prevent small-scale producers from building lasting capacity," says Becca Baumbach, President & CEO of the Community Foundation. “By combining site development with technical support, the Town Square Farmers Market is creating the conditions for long-term success.”

The proposed food hub will serve as a year-round community destination where local entrepreneurs can launch and grow their businesses while building meaningful connections throughout the region. “It has the potential to become much more than a place to shop for local products,” said Dawn Rognerud, President of the Town Square Farmers Market. “We envision it as a vibrant community destination where small entrepreneurs can launch and grow their businesses with the support, resources, and connections they need to succeed.”

Since 2000, the Town Square Farmers Market has welcomed thousands of visitors each summer while supporting local growers, food producers, artisans, and small businesses. The proposed food hub builds on that legacy by creating a permanent space that expands economic opportunity and strengthens connections between rural producers and their consumers.

About the Town Square Farmers Market 

The Town Square Farmers Market inspires and nurtures a healthy community by building a local and sustainable food economy in a vibrant, educational, and culturally expansive marketplace. Since 2000, the market has connected residents with local growers, artisans, food producers, and community organizations while serving as one of downtown Grand Forks’ signature community gathering places. 

About the Community Foundation of Grand Forks, East Grand Forks & Region

The Community Foundation of Grand Forks, East Grand Forks & Region is a nonprofit, community foundation created by and for the people of the region to encourage a spirit of philanthropy. Working in partnership with individuals, families, businesses, nonprofits, and trusted advisers, the Foundation manages charitable funds and provides grants to qualified nonprofit organizations, public entities, and other charitable causes. Since 1998, the Foundation has granted $16 million to create stronger, more vibrant communities across the middle and upper Red River Valley region. Learn more about the Community Foundation and its work at gofoundation.org.