Business & Tech
Business Spotlight: Agricultural Institute of Marin
This non-profit organization brings the Farmers Market to the Civic Center every week and is dedicated to changing the way people buy and eat their food.
76 San Pablo Ave
415.472.6100
www.agriculturalinstitute.org/
What do they offer?
The Agricultural Institute of Marin (AIM) is a non-profit organization offering a fun, vibrant venue in which community and local farmers unite by offering eight Certified Farmers Markets throughout the Bay Area. In Marin, AIM manages the Thursday and Sunday Civic Center Market, the Novato Market and the Fairfax Market. AIM also runs several educational and community outreach programs in hopes of educating the public about the nutritional and economic benefits of buying locally grown food directly from farmers.
Who are they?
AIM was originally known as The Marin Farmers Market (MFM,) a non-profit building bridges between consumers and the farmers. The Marin Agricultural Institute was a sister organization founded by MFM in hopes of reaching even more members of the community and in 2009 these two groups merged to become AIM.
How long have they been there?
Opening in 1983, the Thursday market was the first Certified Farmers Market in Marin County. The Sunday market followed soon after and is now the third largest market in California.
Why are they in our business spotlight?
The longevity of the vendors is a testament to the quality of AIM. Some farmers have been bringing their wares since the very first market opened its doors. This is a place for where farmers, friends, neighbors and family come together to experience the local and seasonal produce, meats and specialty foods. Market-goers will see sustainability first hand, all while sampling the finest and freshest local growers offer. “Know your farmer, know your food,” is one of the many goals AIM hopes to bring to those who may have never grown vegetables, or those who many not understand the power of fresh produce.
This is an organization truly wanting to change the way people buy and eat their food. AIM offers several community outreach geared towards making the market accessible for everyone. The Farm to Fork distribution program has enabled AIM to enter over 40 schools, restaurants and corporate cafeterias in Marin and San Francisco. Market programs are available as well. A Mr. Green Jean can be found giving tours at the market, showing kids healthy local food can be enjoyed by all.
Did you know?
The AIM Farmers Markets accepts food stamps. Head for the booth and receive wooden tokens accepted by all the market vendors. A recent grants allows for AIM to double the value of the food stamps. For example, $20 in food stamps will grant the token holder $40 in market offerings.
