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.
Community Alliance with Family Farmers (CAFF)
Online
a week of learning, inspiration and community featuring over 50 online workshops followed by a dozen in-person events around the state.
Center for Environmental Farming Systems
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (Eastern Standard Time (EST)) | Online
Join SE Partners, Center for Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS) Organic Growers School (OGS) and to learn about on-farm mentorship and practices for supporting beginner farmers. CEFS will share tools, training approaches, and program models from organizations working with farmers training farmers. Participants will have the opportunity to meet with program representatives following the presentations.
+Dr. Sarah Janes Ugoretz, University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension: farm labor management and leadership strategies that support effective mentoring.
+CEFS Agricultural Team: farm management and apprenticeship curriculum for certified organic vegetable production.
+Organic Growers School (OGS): mentorship programs that connect experienced farmers with new growers.
CEFS and OGS training resources and best practices shared in this webinar were informed by investments made through SE TOPP partnerships, with the goal of expanding organic apprenticeship and mentorship opportunities throughout the Southeastern United States.
Learn more and register at the link below.
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.
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm (PST) | Online
This New Roots Roundtable will feature guest speaker Elise Nowack, an Organic Conservation Specialist! Elise works at the intersection of NRCS (the Natural Resource Conservation Service) and organic farming systems. They will provide a broad introduction to NRCS and describe the ways that NRCS can support organic producers via technical and financial assistance programs.
What’s in store:
- A 20-minute overview of NRCS and organic support programs
- Open Q&A and discussion
- A chance to network with other farmers on the organic path!
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.
