Vendor RESOURCES AND FAQs

We hold a Vendor Interest Meeting every year to cover the basics of vending. The 2024 meeting recording is available here.

How DO I apply to be a Vendor?

Applications are open January 8 - February 9, 2024. Vendors need to create a Manage My Market account to apply. If you need assistance or an alternative application format please reach out. Note that an application needs to be completed in one sitting, there's no option to save and come back later.

Outside of the application period, fill out our Vendor Interest Form. This form is NOT an application to the markets. We may invite and accept applications outside the application period depending on space available and product variety.

What do I need to become a vendor?

All vendors need to carry business liability insurance. Liability insurance protects you as well as the market. Minimum coverage amounts are $1,000,000 occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate. We recommend insurance through MFMA, FLIP, Next Insurance, and Thimble.

A certificate of additional insured naming Neighborhood Roots, P.O. Box 19307 Minneapolis, MN 55419 should be emailed to info@neighborhoodrootsmn.org. 

Form ST19 MN Department of Revenue Operator Certificate of Compliance is required for all vendors.

Do I need a permit to sell my goods?

Some vendors will also need to obtain a Minneapolis Seasonal Food Permit or Cottage Food License, depending on what you’re selling. You do not need the permits or licenses in place to apply. Contact manager@neighborhoodrootsmn.org for help with permitting questions.

Do I need to charge sales tax?

It depends on what products you’re selling. Food (groceries), clothing, and drugs are exempt goods in Minnesota. However, candy, soft drinks, and prepared food (intended for immediate consumption) are non-exempt. This flowchart and this list of exempt and non-exempt foods can help determine what foods are taxable. Cottage Food Producers can check this list of taxable and non-taxable cottage foods. See the Minnesota Sales and Use Tax Business Guide for more detailed information.

What are the Market rules?

Check out our Vendor Rules and Regulations. These rules are subject to change annually and vendors are notified of material changes.

HOW Busy are the Markets?

In 2023: 31,000+ people visited Kingfield, 15,000+ people visited Fulton, and 9,000+ people visited Nokomis. On average, that’s about 1300 customers visiting each Kingfield market date, about 500 customers per Fulton market date, and about 350 customers per Nokomis market date, though traffic is weather and timing dependent. Our busiest months are July, August, and September; typically May and October are a bit slower.

The average shopper spends about $20 to $25 per trip to the market, while some amazing customers spend $100+.

Is your question not answered here?

Let’s find you an answer! Email your question to info@neighborhoodrootsmn.org.