The Charlotte Farmers and Artisans Market has become so successful it opened a winter market this year to accommodate those looking to continue to reach customers. One of the reasons for its success is the number of vendors who have taken advantage of the Cottage Law enacted in 2010 in Michigan.
“The Cottage Law has relaxed certain restrictions,” said Kellie Hanford of the Small Business and Development Center and Can Do! E-Pillar. “It has opened doors for Michigan residents to start their own food business.”
Hanford said a number of people are taking advantage of the law locally by starting their business small, testing their recipes at local farmers markets and building their customer base.
“It allows them to start a business without breaking the bank,” Hanford said. “Testing their recipes gives them a leg up on launching a real brick and mortar type of business.”
Hanford will guide a series of free courses in Charlotte aimed at educating potential business owners who would like to take a similar path. The first class — Michigan Cottage Law: How to Start a Food Business From Your Home Kitchen — takes place Wednesday, Feb. 24 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Charlotte City Hall. The class will focus on the Cottage Food Law and what foods it allows people to make at home for sale at a market. It will also discuss labeling requirements, how to make a sale, as well as several other best practices.
The second class — Farmers and Artisans: Success at Farm Markets — will be held Wednesday, March 9 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Charlotte City Hall. The final class — Going to Market – Internet Marketing for Farmers & Artisans — will be held Wednesday, March 23 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Charlotte City Hall.
There is no cost to attend any of the classes, though pre-registration is suggested. To pre-register, call (517) 483-1921.
