Supported by The Ford Foundation and W.K. Kellogg Foundation

Conference wrap-up

O
ver 250 people - ranging from market vendors and managers, city government officials, consultants, and health practitioners - from around the U.S. and 10 countries participated in Project for Public Spaces’ 6th International “Great Markets, Great Cities” Public Markets Conference, October 28-31, 2005 in Washington, DC. Ninety seven panelists hosted 27 workshops and information sessions covering a diverse range of public and farmers market topics, such as how to start and sustain markets in both high and low-income communities, how to attract new vendors, and how to strengthen partnerships with community groups. The three market tours visited over 10 diverse indoor and outdoor public and farmers markets in the Washington DC and Baltimore metro areas. Delegates expressed feeling positively "overloaded and overwhelmed" with practical information to take back to their communities.

PPS would also like to once again thank the Ford Foundation and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation for their generous sponsorship, as well as the following organizations and individuals: The Flea Market at Eastern Market, Market 5 Gallery at Eastern Market, Lexington Market, 32nd Street Waverly Farmers Market, The DC BID, and Councilor Ambrose, Ward 6 Committee for Citizens Services, Washington DC. A big thank you also goes out to all of our conference advocates for their tremendous marketing and organizational support.

The conference helped to further build the voice of public markets and to demonstrate markets as vital tools for sustainable community and economic development.

What delegates are saying about the conference:

"I really enjoyed the wealth of experts brought to the market conference."

Melanie Hovey, Harbor Market Place of Kenosha

"Incredible! They talked about where the "rubber-hits-the-road" practical things. Great tips on market management and goals."

Ms. Chris Kell, Tillamook Farmers Market, Tillamook, OR

"Very interesting to see others from all over the world share their successes as well as trials."

Tom Limon, Unity Council, Oakland, CA

"I am overwhelmed with information - new relationships, new possibilities for my market. It was extremely informative and helpful."

Jennifer Nelson, Rochester Downtown Farmers Market

"What a great conference! It contained all the elements of the market day; threads of energy, enthusiasm, education and fellowship all woven together to form the fabric every great market represents."

Alice Sjolander, Meadville Public Market

"Helpful, practical and fun! Good draw on diverse sectors to support markets."

Kelly Watters, Community Food Bank, Tucson, AZ

"First rate (And I’m a tough critic!)"

Anne Lambert, Calgary Farmers Market, Alberta, Canada

"Very well done - Great relationships were forged and it’s great what PPS is doing to create a public voice for markets."

Anonymous