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
Missouri Organic Association
12:00 pm - 2:00 pm (CST ) | Virtual
Every week you can connect with MOA staff, Dr. Swati Shrestha, and farmers across the state to discuss the topics that matter most to you.
Bring your questions and we will help connect you with the resources that truly help you succeed.
The virtual door is open – no need to stay the whole time or even to show up on time. Just join us when you can between noon and 2pm every Wednesday.
Sprout
5:00 pm - 6:30 pm (Eastern Standard Time (EST)) | Online
Join SE TOPP Partner, Sprout NOLA as they discuss Creating Clear, Labor-Saving On-Farm Systems. Labor is by far the most costly input on mixed production small-scale organic vegetable farms. Creating clear and concise systems for repetitive jobs on the farm makes management easier, work flow smoother, and cultivates a culture of employee confidence. All of this means more produce to sell with less overall labor input. Katie Harris and Aaron Suko (Full Earth Farm est. 2009, Quincy, FL) share techniques, approaches, and tools that have helped them streamline their sustainable/organic production and kept workloads manageable 15 years in.
Learn more and register at the link below.
Oxford College Farm
9:30 am - 3:00 pm (Eastern Standard Time (EST)) | Oxford, Georgia
Participants will learn from two experienced transplant growers, Daniel Parson of Oxford College Farm and Monica Ponce of Love is Love Cooperative farm, how to grow certified organic transplants. The morning session will be a classroom presentation covering everything from selecting your greenhouse structure to making potting mix and starting great transplants. In the afternoon we will break into small groups to explore those activities in a hands-on manner at the farm. We will wrap up with a Q&A period for participants to ask questions of the experts and staff at the Oxford farm.
Email oxfarm@emory.edu to learn more.
Odyssey Collaborations
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm (Central) | Virtual
When it comes to navigating challenges and making impactful changes
on our farms, our most powerful tools are in our heads, not in our sheds.
We can’t truly solve a problem with the same mindset that got us into it.
Farming can often leave us feeling like we struggle alone, but we don’t
have to. Whether you’re a beginning farmer or an experienced hand,
certif ied organic or conventional but curious, join this multi-session,
interactive workshop series to converse and learn with fellow farmers.
Discover principles to help you reduce stress, navigate your toughest
challenges, and make the best decisions for your farm and family.
The Land Connection, OFARM
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm (CST) | Virtual
Organic grain marketing works differently, and success starts long before harvest. In this session, OFARM producers will walk through how rotations, production practices, and certification shape your pricing, demand, and marketing options. Learn how to build buyer relationships, position your crop, and approach organic grain marketing with confidence.
News
FY24 In-Person TOPP Events Heatmap
View TOPP’s 2024 in-person event locations and the educational programs that supported organic and transitioning farmers nationwide.
This Story Map was created by:
Find Out More
Impact Report: Two Years of Progress
A story of collective action, meaningful partnerships, and measurable change.
