Project Overview
Farmers’ Truck is seeking a graduate or postdoctoral student to support the research and development of the 2026 Mobile Market Impact Report, a national report examining how mobile markets are improving food access across the United States.
The project will combine quantitative data, policy research, and real-world case studies to position mobile markets as essential food access infrastructure while highlighting their impact on communities, public health, and local food systems.
Working alongside the Farmers’ Truck team, the student will help analyze operator data, identify national trends, conduct literature and policy research, and synthesize findings into a report intended for nonprofit leaders, funders, policymakers, and community organizations.
Farmers’ Truck will provide access to internal resources, industry contacts, operational data from mobile market operators, and supporting research. The student will focus on analyzing the information, identifying key insights, and helping develop a compelling, evidence-based report.
Final Deliverable
Working closely with the Farmers’ Truck team, the student will be responsible for producing a research-backed draft of the 2026 Farmers’ Truck Impact Report. This includes analyzing provided data, conducting supplemental research, identifying trends, developing case studies, and synthesizing findings into a cohesive report. The Farmers’ Truck team will provide ongoing guidance, access to operators, internal data, and editorial support throughout the project.
Project Details
● Timeline: Summer 2026
● Compensation: Approximately $2,000 to $3,000
● Format: Remote with regular virtual check-ins
● Final Deliverable: Research support and contributions toward the Farmers’ Truck 2026 Mobile Market Impact Report
Project Scope
The selected student will assist with:
● Reviewing existing research on food access and mobile markets
● Analyzing data collected from mobile market operators across North America
● Identifying trends, patterns, and measurable outcomes
● Supporting the development of three detailed mobile market case studies
● Researching state food access policies and funding initiatives
● Assisting with report writing, data visualization recommendations, and citations
Desired Skills
● Graduate or postdoctoral student in Public Health, Food Systems, Community Development, Public Policy, Geography, Urban Planning, Nutrition, Sociology, or a related discipline
● Strong research and analytical skills
● Experience synthesizing qualitative and quantitative data
● Excellent writing and communication abilities
● Interest in food systems, health equity, or community development
Farmers’ Truck 2026 Impact Report – Project Outline
The 2026 Farmers’ Truck Impact Report will build on previous editions by shifting the conversation from what mobile markets are to why they are becoming essential food access infrastructure.
The report will combine operational data, policy research, and real-world case studies to demonstrate how mobile markets improve food access, strengthen local food systems, and create measurable community impact.
Designed for nonprofit leaders, funders, policymakers, and community organizations, the report will provide practical insights, credible data, and examples that support funding, advocacy, and long-term program development.
Proposed Report Structure
1. Introduction: Why Mobile Markets Matter An overview of the changing food access landscape, the purpose of the report, and why mobile markets are increasingly being recognized as essential infrastructure.
2. National Trends & Measuring Impact A snapshot of the mobile market landscape across North America, supported by key operational metrics, program data, and measurable community outcomes collected from operators.
3. Mobile Market Case Studies Three in-depth case studies showcasing different geographic regions, organizational models, funding approaches, and operational structures to demonstrate the versatility of mobile markets.
4. State Policy & Food Access A review of how select states are advancing mobile markets through funding, legislation, nutrition incentives, and food access strategies, with examples that other states can learn from.
5. Mobile Markets as Infrastructure An exploration of how mobile markets support food security, public health, emergency response, local agriculture, and community resilience beyond simply distributing food.
6. Industry Challenges & Opportunities A balanced discussion of current operational challenges alongside emerging opportunities in funding, partnerships, policy, and long-term sustainability.
7. Looking Ahead Key takeaways, future opportunities for the industry, and a vision for strengthening mobile markets as a permanent part of North America’s food access infrastructure.
How to apply? Send all inquiries or applications to BASEL@THEFARMERSTRUCK.COM Please include a short Bio and a small paragraph about why you are interested in this opportunity. Feel free to attach additional documents such as resumes or academic experience.
