Vendor Instructional Course
Welcome!
Your Pathway to Becoming a Self‑Sufficient Market Vendor
The ASCENDtials Vendor Instructional Course is your step‑by‑step guide to becoming a fully prepared food vendor, artisan, or farmer in our Farmers’ Markets. Whether you’re launching a new business, expanding your craft, or stepping into entrepreneurship for the first time, this course gives you everything you need to confidently join our market community.
Inside the course, you’ll learn how to secure the right permits, set up your business, design a professional booth, understand market‑day operations, and complete the full vendor application process. Each module is designed to help you build independence, clarity, and readiness — so you can start selling with confidence and purpose.
By the end of the course, you’ll be fully equipped to join our markets, contribute to our community, and grow your business in a supportive, culturally rooted environment. If you’re ready to take the next step toward self‑sufficiency and entrepreneurship, this course will guide you every step of the way.
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- Module 1 - Welcome & Orientation
Introduction to ASCENDKemet Collective Certified Farmers' Markets
ASCENDKemet Certified Farmers’ Markets (AKCCFM)s are more than places to sell food or handmade goods — they are community hubs rooted in stewardship, cultural celebration, and economic empowerment. Our markets uplift local growers, artisans, and food makers while honoring ancestral knowledge, environmental balance, and community wellbeing.
As a vendor, you become part of a movement that:
• Expands access to fresh, local, and culturally meaningful foods
• Supports small businesses and emerging entrepreneurs
• Strengthens community connection and reciprocity
• Creates a marketplace that reflects the diversity and creativity of our neighborhoods
This course will guide you through everything you need to confidently join our markets and operate with independence, clarity, and purpose.
What it means to be a self-sufficient Vendor
At ASCENDtials, self‑sufficiency is not just about what you can do at a market — it’s about who you are becoming.
In today’s world, if you don’t develop the skills and confidence to sustain yourself, you often end up working in environments that don’t honor your goals, abilities, or principles. Too many people find themselves in jobs that drain them, limit them, or force them to compromise what matters most. We don’t want that for you.
Self‑sufficiency means building the capacity to:
• Create a livelihood rooted in your values
• Use your gifts in ways that uplift your community
• Generate income through your creativity, culture, land, or craft
• Stand on your own without depending on systems that weren’t built for you
• Grow a business that reflects your identity and purpose
As a self‑sufficient vendor, you’re not just selling products — you’re reclaiming agency, considering community, and shaping a future where you decide your direction.
This course is designed to support that journey.
Overview of food, artisan, and farmer pathways
ASCENDtials supports three main vendor pathways. Each pathway has its own requirements, expectations, and opportunities.
Food Vendors
These vendors prepare or sell food items such as baked goods, beverages, packaged foods, or hot foods.
Food vendors must follow specific health and safety regulations, including:
• Cottage Food Operator (CFO) requirements
• Temporary Food Facility (TFF) permits
• Food handler certifications
• Proper labeling and packaging
Artisan Vendors
Artisans create handmade goods such as:
• Jewelry
• Clothing
• Body care products
• Home goods
• Cultural crafts
Artisan vendors focus on craftsmanship, presentation, and storytelling that reflects their cultural or creative identity.
Farmers
Farmers bring fresh, locally grown produce, herbs, flowers, or value‑added agricultural products.
Farmers may need:
• Certified Producer Certificates (CPC)
• Proof of origin for crops
• Compliance with agricultural regulations
Each pathway is essential to the vibrancy of our markets, and this course will help you determine which one fits your business.
Course navigation and expectations
This course is designed to be simple, clear, and self‑paced. You can complete it in one sitting or return to it as needed.
How to Navigate the Course
• Move through each module in order
• Review the videos, text, and downloadable resources
• Complete the required steps before moving on
• Use the checklists to stay organized
• Bookmark the course page for easy access
What We Expect From You
By the end of this course, you should be able to:
• Understand your vendor pathway and its requirements
• Gather all necessary permits and documents
• Prepare your booth setup and equipment
• Know what to expect on market day
• Submit your vendor application with confidence
Completing this course ensures you’re fully prepared to join the ASCENDtials vendor community.
Checklist: What you’ll need to complete the course
Before you begin, gather the following items so you can move through the course smoothly:
Required
• A notebook or digital document for taking notes
• Your business name and basic business information
• Any permits or certifications you already have
• A clear idea of what you plan to sell
• A working email address for communication
By the end of the course, you will have:
• A clear vendor pathway
• A list of required permits
• A complete vendor checklist
• A plan for your booth setup
• Confidence to apply and participate
- Module 2 - Understanding Vendor Requirements
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Overview of vendor categories (Food, Artisan, Farmer)
ASCENDtials supports three main vendor categories. Each category has its own expectations, regulations, and preparation steps.
Food Vendors
Food vendors sell items such as:
• Baked goods
• Packaged foods
• Beverages
• Hot foods
• Prepared meals
• Cottage foods
Food vendors must follow county health regulations and maintain safe food handling practices.
Artisan Vendors
Artisans create handmade or culturally inspired goods such as:
• Jewelry
• Clothing
• Body care products
• Home goods
• Artwork
• Cultural crafts
Artisan vendors focus on craftsmanship, presentation, and storytelling that reflects their identity and creativity.
Farmers
Farmers bring locally grown or produced agricultural items such as:
• Fruits and vegetables
• Herbs
• Flowers
• Eggs
• Honey
• Value‑added agricultural products
Farmers must comply with agricultural regulations and provide documentation showing product origin.
Required permits and certification
Each vendor category has specific documentation requirements. These ensure safety, compliance, and transparency for customers and market staff.
Food Vendors
Depending on what you sell, you may need:
• Cottage Food Operator (CFO) Permit
• Temporary Food Facility (TFF) Permit
• Food Handler Certification
• Health Department approval
• Proper labeling and packaging
Artisan Vendors
Artisans may need:
• Cosmetic labeling compliance (for body care products)
• Product safety documentation (for candles, soaps, etc.)
• Seller’s Permit (required for all vendors collecting sales tax)
Farmers
Farmers typically need:
• Certified Producer Certificate (CPC)
• Proof of origin for crops
• Agricultural compliance documents
• Egg handler or honey producer documentation (if applicable)
Cottage Food vs. Commercial Kitchen
Understanding the difference between Cottage Food and Commercial Kitchen production is essential for food vendors.
Cottage Food (CFO)
Cottage Food Operators can produce certain low‑risk, shelf‑stable foods at home.
Examples include:
• Baked goods
• Jams and jellies
• Granola
• Dried herbs
• Popcorn
Requirements:
• CFO Permit (Class A or B)
• Approved ingredient list
• Proper labeling
• Food handler certification
Commercial Kitchen
If your food requires temperature control, refrigeration, or on‑site preparation, you must use a commercial kitchen.
Examples include:
• Hot foods
• Meat or dairy products
• Sauces
• Prepared meals
• Anything requiring cooking on‑site
Requirements:
• Commercial kitchen rental agreement
• Temporary Food Facility (TFF) Permit
• Health Department inspection
• Food handler certification
Insurance requirements
ASCENDtials requires all vendors to carry general liability insurance to protect themselves and the community.
General Liability Insurance
Covers:
• Accidents at your booth
• Product‑related incidents
• Property damage
Food Vendors
May also need:
• Product liability coverage
• Additional insured endorsement naming
ASCENDtials
Farmers
May need:
• Agricultural liability coverage
• Farm product liability
Artisans
Typically need:
• General liability
• Product liability (for body care, candles, etc.)
Insurance protects your business and ensures you can participate safely and confidently.
Health Department basics
Food vendors must follow county health regulations to ensure safety and compliance.
Key Requirements
• Maintain proper food temperatures
• Use approved handwashing stations
• Store food in clean, sealed containers
• Keep raw and cooked foods separate
• Use gloves or utensils when handling food
• Display permits at your booth
On‑Site Inspections
Health inspectors may visit your booth at any time.
You must be prepared to show:
• TFF permit
• Food handler certification
• Labels and ingredient lists
• Equipment setup (handwashing, thermometers, etc.)
Following these guidelines ensures a safe and successful market experience.
Checklist: Documents to gather
Use this checklist to prepare for the next module.
Food Vendors
• Cottage Food Operator Permit (if applicable)
• Temporary Food Facility Permit
• Food handler certification
• Commercial kitchen agreement (if applicable)
• Product labels and ingredient lists
• General liability insurance
Artisan Vendors
• Seller’s Permit
• Product safety documentation
• Cosmetic labeling compliance (if applicable)
• General liability insurance
Farmers
• Certified Producer Certificate
• Proof of origin
• Egg handler or honey producer documentation
• Agricultural compliance forms
• General liability insurance
- Module 3 - Getting Your Business Set Up
Business license and registration
This module helps vendors establish the essential business foundations needed to operate legally, confidently, and sustainably at AKCCFMs.
By the end, you’ll understand the core documents, registrations, and business practices that support long‑term self‑sufficiency.
1. Business License & Registration
Every vendor must operate as a legally recognized business. This protects you, builds credibility, and ensures you can participate in markets, apply for grants, and grow sustainably.
Why This Matters
A business license:
• Makes your business official
• Allows you to sell legally in California
• Helps you access business banking, funding, and tax benefits
• Shows customers you operate with integrity
What You Need
• City of San Diego Business Tax Certificate
Required for anyone conducting business within city limits.
• Business structure selection (Sole Proprietor, LLC, Partnership, etc.)
Most vendors begin as sole proprietors.
If you’re unsure which structure fits your goals, this course will help you reflect on your long‑term vision.
Seller’s permit
A California Seller’s Permit is required for anyone selling tangible goods — including food, crafts, body care products, and produce.
Why You Need It
• Allows you to collect and report sales tax
• Required by most markets and events
• Protects you from penalties or fines
Who Needs It
• Food vendors
• Artisan vendors
• Farmers selling non‑raw agricultural products
Who May Not Need It
• Farmers selling raw produce only
(But many still obtain one for flexibility.)
EIN and tax basics
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a federal tax ID issued by the IRS.
Why You Might Need an EIN
• To open a business bank account
• To hire employees or contractors
• To separate personal and business finances
• To operate under a business name instead of your personal SSN
Tax Basics for Vendors
• You must track your income and expenses
• You may owe sales tax depending on what you sell
• You may qualify for business deductions (equipment, supplies, mileage, etc.)
This module encourages you to build habits that support long‑term financial health and independence.
Branding Essentials
Your brand is more than a logo — it’s the story, identity, and values behind your business. Strong branding helps customers remember you, trust you, and return to your booth.
Branding Elements to Develop
• Business name
• Logo or visual identity
• Color palette and signage
• Product labels or packaging
• Your story — what inspires your work, culture, or craft
Why Branding Matters
• Helps you stand out in a crowded market
• Builds trust and professionalism
• Communicates your values and cultural identity
• Supports higher pricing and customer loyalty
AKCCF markets celebrate authenticity — your brand should reflect who you are and what you bring to the community.
Pricing strategy for markets
Pricing is both an art and a science. Your prices should reflect the value of your labor, materials, culture, and creativity — not just what others are charging.
Key Pricing Considerations
• Cost of materials
• Time and labor
• Packaging and equipment
• Market fees
• Taxes
• Profit margin
Pricing Approaches
• Cost‑plus pricing
(Your costs + your desired profit)
• Market‑based pricing
(What similar vendors charge)
• Value‑based pricing
(What your product is worth to the customer)
What We Encourage
Price your work in a way that honors:
• Your time
• Your cultural knowledge
• Your craftsmanship
• Your long‑term sustainability
You deserve to thrive — not just break even.
Checklist: Business setup steps
Use this checklist to stay organized as you build your business foundation.
Required for Most Vendors
• City of San Diego Business License
• California Seller’s Permit
• EIN (if applicable)
• General liability insurance
• Business bank account (recommended)
Branding Materials
• Logo or brand mark
• Business name finalized
• Product labels
• Booth signage
• Business cards or QR code
Financial Tools
• Pricing sheet
• Expense tracking system
• Sales tracking system
• Tax folder or digital organizer
- Module 4 — Preparing Your Booth
Booth layout and equipment
This module prepares you to create a professional, safe, and culturally aligned booth that reflects your identity and supports a smooth market experience.
Booth Layout and Equipment
Your booth is your storefront — the space where customers first connect with your work, your story, and your values. A thoughtful layout helps you operate efficiently and attract customers.
Key Layout Principles
• Keep pathways open and accessible
• Place your best‑selling or most visually appealing items at eye level
• Use vertical space to create dimension
• Keep storage hidden to maintain a clean look
• Ensure pricing is visible and easy to understand
A well‑designed booth communicates professionalism and care.
Tents, tables, displays, and safety requirements
• Standard size: 10×10 canopy
• Color: White preferred for consistency and heat reflection
• Must be in good condition (no tears, broken legs, or missing parts)
Safety Requirements
• Weights required on all four legs (minimum 20 lbs each)
• No staking into pavement
• Secure all cords and equipment
• Keep fire extinguisher on hand if cooking
Tables & Displays
• Use sturdy tables with clean tablecloths
• Display products at varying heights
• Use shelves, crates, or risers for visual interest
• Keep displays stable and wind‑safe
Food vendor equipment (handwashing, temperature control, etc.)
Food vendors must meet county health standards.
Required Equipment
• Handwashing station (water jug with spigot, soap, paper towels, catch bucket)
• Food‑grade storage containers
• Thermometers for hot and cold foods
• Gloves and utensils
• Approved coolers or insulated bags
• Labels with ingredients and allergens
• TFF permit displayed at your booth
Hot Food Vendors
• Warming equipment
• Fire extinguisher
• Commercial kitchen documentation
Artisan and farmer display best practices
4. Artisan and Farmer Display Best Practices
Artisan Vendors
• Use clean, intentional displays
• Highlight craftsmanship and cultural meaning
• Include signage that shares your story
• Keep products organized and easy to browse
Farmers
• Keep produce shaded and cool
• Use baskets or crates for natural presentation
• Clearly label prices
• Display CPC prominently
• Maintain cleanliness and freshness
Creating an inviting, culturally aligned booth
Your booth should reflect your identity, heritage, and values.
Ways to Create Cultural Alignment
• Use colors, fabrics, or patterns meaningful to your culture
• Share your story through signage or conversation
• Display items in ways that honor tradition
• Incorporate natural materials (wood, baskets, textiles)
• Play soft music (if permitted) that reflects your roots
A culturally aligned booth deepens connection and builds trust.
Checklist: Booth setup essentials
All Vendors
- 10×10 canopy
- Weights for all four legs
- Tables + tablecloths
- Signage (business name + pricing)
- Payment system
- Trash bags
- Cleaning supplies
- Lighting (if evening market)
Food Vendors
- Handwashing station
- Thermometers
- Gloves and utensils
- Approved food storage
- Labels
- TFF permit
Farmers
- CPC
- Scales
- Clean produce containers
Artisans
- Display racks
- Packaging
- Branding materials
- Module 5 — Market Day Operations
Arrival, setup, and breakdown procedures
This module prepares you for the full flow of market day — from arrival to breakdown — so you can operate confidently and professionally
1. Arrival, Setup, and Breakdown Procedures
Arrival
- Arrive during your assigned setup window
- Check in with market staff
- Unload quickly, then move your vehicle
- Set up canopy and weights first
Breakdown
- Do not break down early
- Pack products and equipment
- Remove canopy last
- Leave your space clean
Parking, loading, and unloading
Use designated vendor loading zones
- Unload fully before setting up
- Move your vehicle immediately after unloading
- At breakdown, pack first, then bring your vehicle
This keeps the market safe and efficient.
Vendor etiquette and community expectations
ASCENDKemet markets are rooted in respect, stewardship, and community care.
Expectations
- Be kind and collaborative
- Keep your booth clean
- Stay for the full market
- Follow staff instructions
- Support fellow vendors
- Avoid blocking walkways or neighboring booths
Your presence contributes to the collective energy of the market.
Accepting payments (cash, card, EBT, etc.)
Payment Options
- Cash
- Card (Square, Stripe, etc.)
- Contactless payments
- EBT (if approved)
Best Practices
- Have small bills for change
- Display payment options clearly
- Keep devices charged
- Offer QR codes for easy checkout
Customer engagement and storytelling
Your story is part of your product.
Engagement Tips
- Greet customers warmly
- Share the meaning behind your work
- Offer samples (if permitted)
- Ask questions to build connection
- Use signage to tell your story
Storytelling builds loyalty and increases sales.
Checklist: Market day readiness
- Canopy + weights
- Tables + displays
- Payment system
- Permits and certifications
- Water and snacks
- Comfortable shoes
- Business cards or QR code
- Cleaning supplies
- Positive energy
- Module 6 — Joining the Market
How to submit your vendor application
This module walks you through the administrative steps to officially join AKCC Farmers’ Markets.
1. How to Submit Your Vendor Application
- Complete the online vendor application
- Upload required permits and documents
- Select your vendor category
- Provide product photos
- Submit your business information
How to pay your deposit and booth fees
Paying Your Vendor Deposit
Your vendor deposit is paid at the time of your application through our secure WPForms checkout using Stripe.
This deposit reserves your space and allows our team to begin reviewing your application and preparing your onboarding steps.
You will see the deposit amount listed clearly on the application form based on your vendor category and market selection. Payment is processed instantly, and you will receive an email confirmation once it is complete.
Paying Your Weekly Booth Fees
Once your application is approved, you will activate your Vendor Membership, which manages your weekly booth fees. This membership is processed through our Paid Memberships Pro system and uses Stripe to securely bill your weekly fee.
How it works:
• You join the Vendor Membership after approval
• Stripe automatically processes your booth fee every week
• Your membership must remain active to participate in the market
• You can update your payment method at any time
This system keeps your participation simple, consistent, and fully automated — no invoices, no manual payments, no missed weeks.
Managing Payments Through Your Vendor Dashboard
After joining the Vendor Membership, you’ll gain access to your Vendor Dashboard, where you can:
• View your membership status
• Update your payment method
• Review billing history
• Manage your weekly booth fee subscription
• Access vendor resources and scheduling tools
Your dashboard is your central hub for staying organized and maintaining good standing as an active vendor.
How invoices work
At MDBA, we keep vendor payments simple, transparent, and automated.
Deposit Invoice
• Your deposit is paid at the time of your application through our secure WPForms checkout using Stripe.
• This deposit reserves your space and allows our team to begin reviewing your application.
• You will receive an email confirmation immediately after payment.
Weekly Booth Fees
Weekly booth fees are not invoiced manually. Instead, they are processed through your Vendor Membership, which uses Stripe to automatically bill your weekly fee.
This means:
• No weekly invoices
• No manual payments
• No missed weeks
• No confusion
Your billing history and payment method can be managed anytime through your Vendor Dashboard.
How to select your market dates
Once your application is approved and your Vendor Membership is active, you’ll be able to select your market dates.
How to choose your dates:
• Log into your Vendor Dashboard
• Navigate to Market Schedule
• Select your preferred dates (Friday, Saturday, or both)
• Submit your selections
• Wait for confirmation from the market team
Important Notes
• Dates are confirmed based on availability and vendor mix
• You may request recurring dates
• You can update your availability as needed
• You will receive a confirmation email with setup instructions for each approved date
What to expect after approval
Once your application is approved, you will receive an Approval Email that includes:
Your Next Steps
• A link to activate your Vendor Membership (weekly booth fee)
• Instructions for accessing your Vendor Dashboard
• Market rules and expectations
• Links to vendor resources and checklists
• Contact information for the market team
What Happens Next
• You activate your membership
• You gain access to the Vendor Dashboard
• You select your market dates
• You receive confirmation and setup instructions
• You prepare for your first market day
Approval officially welcomes you into the MDBA vendor community and unlocks everything you need to participate.
Checklist: Final steps to join the market
Use this checklist to ensure you’ve completed all steps before your first market.
Final Steps Checklist
• Submit your vendor application
• Pay your required deposit
• Receive approval email
• Activate your Vendor Membership (weekly booth fee)
• Access your Vendor Dashboard
• Review market rules and setup instructions
• Select your market dates
• Confirm your scheduled dates
• Prepare your booth setup and equipment
• Review your vendor resources and checklists
Once these steps are complete, you are officially ready to join the AKCC Farmers’ Market.
- Module 7 — Growing as a Vendor
Marketing and social media basics
Marketing is how you tell your story, share your mission, and help customers understand the value of what you offer.
Social media is one of the most powerful tools you have — and it’s free.
Why Marketing Matters
• Helps customers discover your products
• Builds trust and familiarity
• Encourages repeat visits
• Strengthens your brand identity
• Supports the overall growth of the market
Social Media Essentials
You don’t need to be an expert — just consistent and authentic.
Choose 1–2 Platforms
Most vendors succeed with:
• Instagram
• Facebook
• TikTok (optional but powerful for food vendors)
Post Regularly
Aim for:
• 2–3 posts per week
• 3–5 stories on market days
What to Post
• Behind‑the‑scenes prep
• New products
• Your booth setup
• Market day photos
• Customer testimonials
• Your story and mission
• Seasonal offerings
Use Market Hashtags
This helps customers find you and supports the market’s visibility.
Examples:
•#ASCENDKemetFarmersMarket
•#MarinaDistrictVendors
• #SupportLocalSD
•#ASCENDtialsCommunity
Tag the Market
Always tag MDBA and ASCENDtials so we can share your posts and amplify your reach.
Building customer relationships
Strong customer relationships are the heart of a thriving vendor business. People return not just for your product — but for you.
Why Relationships Matter
• Builds loyalty
• Encourages word‑of‑mouth referrals
• Creates a sense of community
• Helps customers feel connected to your mission
• Increases long‑term sales
Customer Engagement Tips
• Greet customers warmly
• Share your story and what inspires your work
• Offer samples (if applicable)
• Explain your process or ingredients
• Ask customers how they plan to use your product
• Thank them genuinely
Create a Memorable Experience
Your booth is more than a table — it’s a micro‑temple of your craft.
Consider:
• Clear signage
• Beautiful displays
• Easy‑to‑read pricing
• A welcoming atmosphere
• A consistent brand look
Encourage Repeat Visits
• Offer loyalty cards
• Share your social media
• Invite customers to return next week
• Let them know about new products coming soon
Seasonal planning
Seasonal planning is essential for staying relevant, prepared, and profitable throughout the year. Successful vendors anticipate seasonal shifts in customer needs, product availability, and market flow.
Why Seasonal Planning Matters
• Helps you prepare inventory
• Aligns your offerings with customer demand
• Supports better budgeting and forecasting
• Keeps your booth fresh and exciting
• Strengthens your connection to natural cycles
What to Consider Each Season
Spring
• Launch new products
• Focus on fresh starts and wellness themes
• Prepare for increased foot traffic
Summer
• High‑volume season
• Emphasize hydration, cooling foods, outdoor‑friendly products
• Plan for heat‑safe displays
Fall
• Harvest themes
• Warm foods, comfort items, seasonal crafts
• Holiday prep begins
Winter
• Lower foot traffic
• Focus on gift items, preserved foods, self‑care products
• Use this time for planning and restocking
Opportunities for collaboration
Why Collaborate
• Expands your audience
• Creates shared marketing opportunities
• Builds community trust
• Encourages creativity and innovation
• Supports cross‑promotion
Examples of Vendor Collaborations
• Farmers + Food Vendors: ingredient‑based specials
• Artisans + Farmers: bundled gift sets
• Food Vendors + Artisans: co‑branded events
• All Vendors: seasonal market promotions
Ways to Collaborate
• Joint social media posts
• Shared booth displays
• Co‑hosted workshops or demos
• Cross‑discounts or loyalty perks
Collaboration is a powerful way to grow while strengthening the community temple we are building together.
How to scale your business
Scaling doesn’t always mean getting bigger — it means getting smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable.
Ways to Scale
• Add new product lines
• Improve packaging or branding
• Increase production capacity
• Expand to additional markets
• Offer online ordering or pre‑orders
• Build a subscription or CSA model
• Hire part‑time help for busy seasons
Signs You’re Ready to Scale
• You consistently sell out
• Customers request more options
• You have stable weekly revenue
• You’re ready to invest in growth
• You feel confident in your operations
Scaling is a journey — and MDBA is here to support you every step of the way.
Checklist: Growth plan
Use this checklist to guide your long‑term development as a vendor.
Growth Plan Checklist
• [ ] Post consistently on social media
• [ ] Tag MDBA and ASCENDtials
• [ ] Maintain a cohesive brand identity
• [ ] Engage customers intentionally
• [ ] Track best‑selling products
• [ ] Refresh booth layout seasonally
• [ ] Explore collaborations
• [ ] Participate in market events
• [ ] Review pricing quarterly
• [ ] Plan for seasonal shifts
• [ ] Consider scaling opportunities
• [ ] Maintain strong communication with market staff
- Final Assessment & Certification
Quick knowledge check
To complete the Vendor Instructional Course and receive your Vendor Preparedness Certificate, you must:
1. Review all course modules
2. Complete the final knowledge check quiz
3. Submit your certificate request (automated upon quiz completion)
This certificate demonstrates that you understand market operations, vendor expectations, and the values that guide the MDBA/ASCENDtials Farmers’ Market ecosystem.
Vendor readiness review
Before completing the MDBA Vendor Instructional Course, take this brief knowledge check to confirm your understanding of market operations, vendor expectations, and the values that guide our community ecosystem. This quick assessment helps ensure you’re prepared, confident, and ready to thrive as part of the MDBA/ASCENDtials Farmers’ Markets.
Take QUIZ now!
Certificate of Completion
Upon successfully completing the MDBA Vendor Instructional Course and passing the final knowledge check, vendors will be able to access and download their Certificate of Completion directly through the LifterLMS course platform. This certificate serves as a record of your training and demonstrates your commitment to professionalism, preparedness, and community stewardship within the MDBA/ASCENDtials Farmers’ Markets.
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Course Completion
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You’re Ready for the Next Step
Congratulations on completing the MDBA Vendor Instructional Course. You’ve taken an important step toward joining our marketplace community and preparing yourself for a successful, empowered vendor experience.
To officially begin the onboarding process, please complete the Vendor Application. This allows our team to review your information, confirm your vendor category, and guide you through the final steps toward participating in the MDBA/ASCENDtials Farmers’ Markets.
Continue to the Vendor Application to Get Started
We look forward to welcoming you into our growing ecosystem of farmers, food makers, artisans, and cultural stewards.
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