Everyone's Harvest originated out of a senior capstone project at California State University Monterey Bay by its co-founder, Iris Peppard. The group incorporated in November of 2002. There first project was to establish a Certified Farmers' Market in the city of Marina, which opened in June of 2003. Part time staff and volunteers are used to run all of the group's activities. Market and administrative costs are paid for by vendor fees, contributions, along with occasional grants from cities and foundations.

Presently, the group manages three Certified Farmers' Markets in Marina, Pacific Grove, and Greenfield. Everyone's Harvest brings people and food together. The group's mission is to create vibrant healthy communities and equitable food webs. They believe "everyone deserves the right to fresh, organic produce supplied by the local community."

Everyone's Harvest faced many challenges when they were first introduced to SBDC. The Executive Director, Ms. Peppard was doing a great job. Yet, she was basically self-taught and needed assistance with budgeting, human resources, accounting processes, website updating, and management issues. Additionally, research and marketing assistance were required. Marketing funds were limited and had to be used cautiously to attract buying customers to the markets, to result in providing a profitable experience for the vendors.

Cash flow and budgeting were a priority to manage. The SBDC consultant, Charles Jehle worked with Ms. Peppard to prepare a budget and cash flow format encompassing two existing markets, as well as a proposed new market for Everyone’s Harvest in the city of Greenfield. The proposed budget initially showed a deficit, which was very discouraging after a successful prior year.

However, a final detailed pass by the SBDC consultant on the budget showed an error in the formatting. Once corrected, enough funds where available to pay for the existing two markets and expand into the City of Greenfield. June of 2009, Everyone's Harvest took over the market in Greenfield providing a venue for an average of 15 vendors and 500 customers each week.

Promotion and marketing dollars were scrutinized to ensure a steady flow of customers to the markets. Promotions were designed to enhance the shopping experience for customers, resulting in loyal, returning customers. In particular, educational nutrition cooking classes were well received by the public.

SBDC introduced the client to an accounting professional to assist Everyone's Harvest with using a compatible QuickBooks system to manage the group's finances. This resulted in 15 saved hours each month and greatly reduced stress for the client, knowing they'll easily meet deadlines, and have accurate reporting.

Human resources were a continual challenge, working with staff and volunteers. SBDC provided input on management and assisted in hiring two new part-time staff members. Everyone's Harvest currently runs with a part-time staff of three and up to 15 volunteers during peak season. Customer counts at all three markets grew consistently over the seasons, and combined sales for 2009 grew to $102,000 from $57,000 in 2008. Counting all three markets an average of 75 vendors displays their wares each week.

"SBDC has been a wonderful resource. My consultant Charles Jehle, provided valuable insight and experience, challenged me to improve systems, and assisted me in upgrading my budgeting and management skills, allowing us to handle operational growth," says Iris Peppard, Director of Everyone's Harvest.