Seeds of Success
Supporting Local Food & Maker Businesses
Seeds of Success is a program of the Durango Farmers Market designed to support farmers, food producers, makers, and small local businesses through education, connection, and practical tools for long-term success.
Rooted in our mission to strengthen sustainable local economies, Seeds of Success brings together producers, artisans, partners, and community organizations to share knowledge, build relationships, and support resilient small businesses across the Four Corners region.
Date: February 20, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: La Plata County Fairgrounds
Cost: Free
Food: Coffee/light breakfast snacks and lunch provided
Program Overview
Seeds of Success focuses on the real-world needs of local entrepreneurs working in food, agriculture, and handcrafted goods. The program creates space for learning, collaboration, and peer connection across all stages of business development.
Through workshops, panels, and facilitated conversations, participants gain access to:
Practical business and operational guidance
Information on regulations, compliance, and permitting
Financial planning and pricing tools
Marketing, branding, and customer engagement strategies
Connections to regional resources, partners, and peers
Content is tailored to the realities of running small, mission-driven businesses in our region.
Seeds of Success Summit
The Seeds of Success Summit is a cornerstone of the program, bringing together farmers, food producers, makers, artisans, and community partners for a day of learning and connection.
The Summit typically includes:
Educational sessions and breakout workshops
Topics relevant to food, farm, and maker businesses
Opportunities for peer learning and shared problem-solving
A closing networking or producer–buyer connection opportunity
Sessions are designed to be accessible, practical, and grounded in the lived experience of local businesses.
Who It’s For
Seeds of Success is intended for:
Farmers and ranchers
Food producers and value-added businesses
Makers and artisans
Market vendors and prospective vendors
Small business owners and entrepreneurs
Community partners supporting local economies
Both new and established businesses are welcome.
Why It Matters
Local food and maker businesses are essential to a resilient, connected local economy. Seeds of Success helps:
Strengthen the viability of small, independent businesses
Increase knowledge-sharing across sectors
Reduce barriers to entry and long-term sustainability
Foster collaboration rather than competition
By investing in people and skills, we invest in the long-term health of our community.
2026 Summit Schedule
9:00–9:30 AM | Welcome & Summit Orientation
9:30–10:15 AM | Opening Keynote: Building Viable Small Businesses in Our Region
Priscila Newbold - A framing conversation on entrepreneurship, access, and sustainability across local food economies.
10:30–11:30 AM | Breakout Session Block 1
Financial Planning for Small Businesses: Cash flow, budgeting, and planning tools for seasonal and year-round enterprises.
Safe Food Handling at the Market: Cottage Food, Ready-to-Eat, and Prepared Foods. Understanding food safety expectations and compliance at markets and events.
From Local Production to Community Access: How farms connect to food access and purchasing programs.
Sales Tax 101 for Small Businesses: When to collect, when not to, and how to stay compliant.
11:45 AM–12:45 PM | Lunch & Market Introductions + Office Hours
1:00–2:00 PM | Breakout Session Block 2
Booth Setup That Works: Layout, Flow & Customer Experience for Markets and Events
Grant, Loan, and Grow: For agricultural businesses seeking real, accessible funding to strengthen and expand their operations
Branding & Social Media for Small Businesses: Telling your story clearly and showing up online without burnout.
Licensing & Regulatory Requirements: What applies to farms, food producers, and artisan businesses.
2:15–3:15 PM | Breakout Session Block 3
Standing Out in a Crowded Market: An Artisan-Focused Session Positioning your work, pricing, presentation, and storytelling to stand out in a competitive market.
SNAP Produce Bonus Program at the Market: How nutrition incentive programs work and how vendors can participate. Learn how the program works and begin the process of getting signed up.
Getting Local Products into Local Restaurants: A facilitated roundtable for chefs and producers to discuss realistic entry points and expectations.
Building a Sustainable Business in a Seasonal Economy: Planning for growth, pacing yourself, and long-term resilience.
