Farm-Fresh to Your Doorstep – The People’s Market DMV

In an era where convenience reigns supreme and the demand for fresh, locally sourced food is at an all-time high, one entrepreneur is making it easier for consumers to access farm-fresh produce while uplifting historically underrepresented farmers. Meet Brandon Starkes, the founder and CEO of The People’s Market DMV, a subscription-based food delivery service that is transforming how the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) region sources and consumes fresh produce.

A Vision Rooted in Community

Growing up in Prince George’s County, Maryland, Starkes witnessed firsthand the disparities in access to high-quality, organic food. His background in public service only further exposed the systemic barriers that small Black and minority-owned farms face when trying to bring their products to market. Rather than watching these disparities persist, he created The People’s Market DMV to be a bridge—connecting local farmers with consumers who are eager for fresh, sustainable, and ethically sourced goods.

“Supporting local farmers isn’t just about food; it’s about sustainability, equity, and ensuring that everyone—regardless of zip code—has access to healthy, high-quality produce,” Starkes said in a recent interview.

Black farmers make up less than 2% of all farmers in the United States, a dramatic decline from the early 20th century when they represented nearly 14% of the agricultural workforce.

How It Works

The People’s Market DMV operates on a subscription-based model, allowing customers to select fresh produce boxes that fit their needs. Options range from half to full-sized boxes, with add-ons like farm-fresh eggs, seasonal flowers, artisanal body care products, and handmade candles. Once an order is placed, the team ensures delivery within 48 to 72 hours of harvest, guaranteeing peak freshness while supporting local agriculture.

Get a weekly box of fresh, organic, locally sourced produce delivered to your door every Sunday. Packed with the finest fruits and veggies, it’s perfect for a family of 3-4 for the week—all for just $60. Order Yours!

Unlike major grocery chains that often source produce from thousands of miles away, The People’s Market DMV prioritizes food grown within a 200-mile radius, reducing the carbon footprint while keeping dollars circulating in the local economy.

The Business of Changing the Food System

The market for direct-to-consumer food delivery has exploded in recent years, with companies like Misfits Market and Imperfect Foods gaining traction. However, The People’s Market DMV sets itself apart by focusing on community-based food sovereignty, working directly with farmers such as Curemore Farms, Sweet Love Flower Farm, Botanical Bites & Provisions, and urban grower Farmer Tolu.

This hyper-local approach allows The People’s Market DMV to deliver on both quality and ethics, ensuring that farmers receive fair compensation and consumers get the freshest possible produce.

The Benefits of Hyper-Local Farm Goods

• Superior Freshness: Produce is harvested at peak ripeness and delivered within days, maximizing flavor and nutrition.
• Lower Carbon Footprint: Shorter transportation distances mean reduced emissions and environmental impact.
• Supports Local Economies: More money stays within the community, strengthening small farms and local businesses.
• Higher Nutritional Value: Fresher produce retains more vitamins and minerals compared to food that travels long distances.
• Stronger Community Connections: Buying local fosters relationships between consumers and farmers, promoting transparency and trust.

“We’re not just delivering food; we’re creating a movement,” Starkes says. “If we can prove that this model works here, there’s no reason it can’t work in other cities where people care about fresh food, sustainability, and supporting Black and underrepresented farmers.”

The Future of The People’s Market DMV

Looking ahead, Starkes and his team have their sights set on expanding offerings, increasing farmer partnerships, and potentially scaling operations to serve more regions. As consumers continue to demand transparency in their food sources and convenience in their purchasing options, The People’s Market DMV is well-positioned to be at the forefront of this shift.

For those in the DMV area looking to make their grocery shopping more intentional, The People’s Market DMV offers an opportunity to support local farmers, eat healthier, and make a tangible impact on the local economy—all while receiving farm-fresh goods delivered right to their doorsteps.

In an industry often dominated by big-name retailers, The People’s Market DMV is proving that community-driven food systems aren’t just possible—they’re the future.

Try The People’s Market DMV