Vendor Categories & Selection Criteria

The goal of the Outdoor Market is to connect farmers & producers with customers in a dynamic, diverse public marketplace; providing locals & visitors with the highest quality products the region has to offer. 

Each application is reviewed using the following criteria: Quality, Originality, & Sustainable/Mission Driven. Preference is given to items produced and/or made locally (within 150 miles of Cincinnati). 

Do not apply if you are a retailer or own a franchise. Findlay Market cannot accommodate these businesses. 

Farmer/Agricultural Producer

Those who cultivate fruits and vegetables; harvest wild fruits, vegetables, or flowers; grow outdoor/indoor plants or herb plants; raise animals for dairy or meat products to sell at the Outdoor Market

For those selling eggs, raw meat, poultry, and dairy products a health inspection and appropriate health permits are required. 

Exempt Cottage Food Producer

Non-hazardous food items produced at home (or non-commercial setting) that do not require licensing or inspection by the ODA. Items must be appropriately labeled in order to be approved following ODA labeling requirements. 

    • Examples include but are not limited to: cookies, brownies, fruit pies & cobblers, jams, jellies, granola, ground coffee/coffee beans, dry tea blends, dry herbs & herb blends.

Visit this link to learn more: https://agri.ohio.gov/divisions/food-safety/resources/cottage-food

 Prepared Food - Mobile Food License Required*

Potentially hazardous food items that require temperature control. Vendors fall into the following categories: 

  • Food and/or beverage freshly prepared at the Outdoor Market for immediate consumption

    • Examples Include: street tacos, deep fried food, iced tea & coffee, fresh juice

  • Food prepared in a commercial kitchen that is not an Exempt Cottage Food. 

    • Examples Include: cheesecake, cream or custard pies, popsicles

*Findlay Kitchen Members who do not have their own Mobile Food License may use the Kitchen’s License & Outdoor Market equipment. Contact Kelly Shaw for details. 

For more information, visit:

https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/health/cincinnati-health-department-programs/food-safety-and-inspections/food-businesses-and-licensing/mobile-food-licensing/

Artisan

  • Non-food products created, designed, or handmade by a local artisan. Items must be made locally* and vendors should be prepared to provide how/where they source their materials. 

    • Examples include, but are not limited to: pottery, paintings, textiles, jewelry, candles

*Those who upcycle or repurpose items to keep them out of the landfill are encouraged to apply.