Tecumseh Farmers Market News
Greater Lenawee Chamber of Commerce and Tecumseh DDA Partner on the Future of the Tecumseh Farmers Market
Tecumseh, MI — The Greater Lenawee Chamber of Commerce (GLCC) Board of Directors has voted to support the transition of both financial and operational responsibilities for the Tecumseh Farmers Market to the Tecumseh Downtown Development Authority (DDA). The decision follows a series of productive discussions between GLCC leadership and the DDA focused on ensuring long-term sustainability and continued growth of the market.
Established in 2015 on the Market on Evans property, the Tecumseh Farmers Market transformed a former lumber yard into a vibrant weekly gathering place for the community. Early momentum was supported by a successful Public Spaces Community Places (PSCP) campaign, with the Tecumseh DDA securing $20,000 in funding from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Continued investment followed with a $72,000 USDA grant awarded to the City of Tecumseh in 2018, and in 2023 the City of Tecumseh and Tecumseh DDA invested over $25,000 in three food truck electrical pedestals, in addition to lighting and electrical upgrades for the market to expand into the thriving community asset it is today.
Now welcoming more than 25,000 visitors annually and averaging approximately 1,000 guests each Saturday, the Tecumseh Farmers Market has played a critical role in fostering local entrepreneurship. Over the past decade, the market has helped launch and grow numerous micro-businesses and brick-and-mortar storefronts, including Tecumseh Bread & Pastry, Pita Delight Grill, Paper Street Soap, and others.
“The Chamber is incredibly proud of the legacy of the Tecumseh Farmers Market and the role it has played in supporting small businesses,” said Todd Brown, Chairman of the GLCC Board. “As the DDA steps into a broader management role, we are excited to continue supporting vendors through business resources and promoting the market through our weekly communications.”
The transition reflects a shared vision between the GLCC, the City of Tecumseh, and the DDA to align responsibilities in a way that maximizes impact for residents, businesses, and visitors.
“This transition demonstrates our collective commitment to the long-term success of the market and to strengthening collaboration across our organizations,” said Bob Fox, Board Chair of the Tecumseh Downtown Development Authority.
The GLCC will work closely with the DDA to ensure a smooth and coordinated transition and will remain an active partner in supporting vendor success and the broader Tecumseh business community.
