Indianapolis, IN – Growing Places Indy and 16 Tech Community Corporation, the nonprofit responsible for the programmatic and physical development of the 16 Tech Innovation District, are excited to announce that 16 Tech will officially take over the operation of the Indy Winter Farmers Market (IWFM) for the 2024-2025 season. The IWFM, a beloved community market that has connected Indianapolis residents with local farmers and food producers for 16 years, will continue its mission under 16 Tech’s stewardship.
16 Tech’s deep connection with the market makes the transition seamless, as 16 Tech has hosted the IWFM for the past three years at the AMP Food Hall and Marketplace. The market’s core values of celebrating local entrepreneurs/growers, offering SNAP benefits, and cultivating a warm and welcoming environment will remain central under 16 Tech’s leadership, further solidifying the market as a cornerstone of the city’s Near Westside.
“The Indy Winter Farmers Market is a vital community asset, and 16 Tech is honored to continue its legacy, serving the market’s vendors, customers, and our Near West and Near Northwest neighbors,” said Emily Krueger, President and CEO of 16 Tech Community Corporation.
Since 2012, Growing Places Indy (GPI) has been the driving force behind the IWFM, growing it into a vibrant gathering space for local food producers, artisans, and the Indianapolis community. As GPI transitions the market’s leadership to 16 Tech, the organization expressed its gratitude for the ongoing support and looks forward to watching the IWFM flourish under new management.
“Growing Places Indy is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have stewarded this market for more than a decade, and we’re confident that 16 Tech will continue to build on this foundation,” said Laura Henderson, Executive Director of Growing Places Indy. “The commitment to providing access to fresh, local food, fostering strong vendor relationships, and engaging the community will only grow stronger as 16 Tech takes the reins.”
During the 2023-2024 season, the IWFM welcomed 84 local vendors and saw more than 24,000 visitors. The upcoming season will see a continuation of the Triple SNAP Match program, ensuring fresh, nutritious food is accessible to all, and fostering a welcoming environment for both first-time and long-time shoppers.
The IWFM will return for its 16th season on Saturday, November 16, 2024, and run weekly from 9:00 am – 12:30 pm through Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 16 Tech’s AMP Food Hall and Marketplace. Vendor applications are now open. To apply or learn more about the Indy Winter Farmers Market, please visit www.indywinterfarmersmarket.org.
Sponsorship opportunities are available for the 2024-2025 season. Learn more at www.indywinterfarmersmarket.orgor contact [email protected].