Let’s Grow American Agriculture
The Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) is a network assembled by the USDA’s National Organic Program to support transitioning and organic producers with mentorship and resources.
Two Years of Progress: How TOPP is Growing Organic from the Ground Up
Since its launch in 2022, the USDA Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) has been strengthening organic farming communities. This report highlights the first two years of TOPP, showcasing real stories, key partnerships, and insights on how the program supports producers transitioning to organic, boosts local economies, and expands market opportunities.
We are six regions working together nationwide towards a common goal:
to grow the network of organic producers.
With TOPP, producers transitioning to organic will find support through the transition and certification process. Mentorship, workshops, webinars, field days, technical assistance, and other educational events will offer opportunities to learn about organic production, the certification process, market opportunities, and more.
Find your region below to learn more about mentorship, events, and resources.
Join Our Mentorship Program
The TOPP mentorship program builds connections between experienced organic producers and producers transitioning to organic, supports the transition process, and creates a stronger network of organic producers across the United States.
For Mentees
Transitioning producers gain support, guidance, and development through mentorship.
As a transitioning producer you will receive free mentorship from an experienced organic producer. Mentors and transitioning producers will work together to set goals for the mentorship year and will form a strong network of organic producers across the region.
For Mentors
Mentors play a crucial role in helping new organic producers succeed while growing the organic movement.
As a mentor, you will have the opportunity to guide and support producers who are transitioning to organic, providing them with valuable insights, practical advice, and industry best practices. Mentorship training, time, and travel are paid. All crop and livestock producers are welcome to apply!
Upcoming Events
MA'O Organic Farms
2:00 am - 6:00 am (HAT) | Honolulu, HI
Community event to meet with other folks in the organic food movement and discuss current topics.
Farmshare Austin
Cedar Creek, TX
Farmer Starter is a five month entry level immersive farmer training program on a working, certified organic, diversified vegetable farm. Combining hands-on field practice with classroom learning and field trips to local farms, Farmer Starter is designed to provide aspiring farmers with the essential skills and training needed to manage a sustainable farming business.
Salmon Valley Stewardship Association
5:00 pm - 8:30 pm (PT) | Salmon, ID
Part 3 of our seed school. The final event will go over selecting, harvesting, cleaning and storing seeds. It will also cover how to save biennial plants over the winter to planted out in the spring.
Organic Seed Alliance
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm (PT) | WA
To be Determined
NOFA NH
1:00 pm - 3:30 pm (EST) | Winchester, NH
At Picadilly Farm, soil fertility management is central to the farm’s long-term sustainability goals. The team is committed to leaving the land as healthy (or healthier) than it was upon their arrival, while producing highly nutritious, top-quality vegetables.
In this workshop, Bruce will guide participants through a full year of fertility practices at Picadilly Farm. He will:
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Provide the farm’s overarching goals, the metrics used to evaluate soil health, and the strategic framework that informs fertility decisions.
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Outline key crop production practices, including cover cropping, the selection and use of purchased inputs, and the tractor implements involved.
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Cover the farm’s record-keeping systems for maintaining compliance with both the National Organic Program and the Food Safety Modernization Act, and how these systems integrate with the farm’s fertility strategy.
This workshop offers a practical, on-the-ground perspective for farmers interested in strengthening their soil health practices, streamlining fertility planning, and staying compliant within an organic production system.
News
Impact Report: Two Years of Progress
A story of collective action, meaningful partnerships, and measurable change.
