Let's Go Organic
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.
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
VMSMA and UVM Extension Maple Conference
Vermont Maple Sugar Makers Association/UVM Extension
The 2024 Vermont Maple Conference, a collaboration between the Vermont Maple Sugar Makers’ Association (VMSMA) and UVM Extension, offers an exciting and informative event for sugar makers of all sizes. The conference kicks off with an in-person Quality School on December 9th in Berlin, Vermont, led by Mark Isselhardt and Jason Lilley. This is followed by three days of online sessions, December 10-13, covering topics from forestry and food safety to climate resiliency. The week concludes on December 14th with an in-person day at Vermont State University, featuring networking opportunities, vendor exhibits, expert talks, and a unique one-on-one “maple confidential” session with Flavor Expert Henry Marckres. All sessions will be recorded and made available post-conference.
Specialty Crops Conference
Mississippi State University, Co-Host: Farm Bureau
Lake Terrace Convention Center, Hattiesburg, MS
Join Mississippi State University Extension for a two-day event focused on the business and production aspects of specialty crops!
Day 1 will cover essential topics such as financial planning and credit access, marketing strategies, social media advertising, market channel selection, food safety compliance, and labor management, including the H2-A guest worker program.
Day 2 will delve into organic agriculture, fruit and vegetable crop production, and the cultivation of cut flowers and ornamental horticulture.
This conference provides a unique opportunity to learn from fellow producers, share experiences, and build valuable networks. Best of all, registration is free, and meals are included.
*** Deadline to register: Monday, December 2nd. Register here.
Day 1: Thursday, December 12th
10:00 – 4:30pm
– Navigating market outlets opportunities and key marketing considerations
– Deciphering regulatory, labeling, and food safety requirements to sell in new markets
– Understanding programs and services offered by state agencies
– Navigating loans, credit readiness, and loan programs
– LUNCH
– Strategic marketing for farm and food businesses
– Harnessing online tools for social media marketing for farmers and food businesses
– H-2A Temporary Agricultural Program
Day 2: Friday, December 13th
7:30am – 4:00pm
– Continental Breakfast
– Keynote Address: Specialty Crops and Production Options: What is Organic Certification and is it Right for my Farm
– Fruit Crops Session
– LUNCH
– Vegetable Crop Production
– Cut Flowers and Ornamental Horticulture
Farmer Networking- Regional Food System Summit After-Gathering
Foodshed Alliance, NOFA-NJ
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm (EST) | Rutgers University-Douglas Student Center; Newark, NJ
Participate in strengthening farmer peer support networks. Learn about Organic Farming Mentorship, Food Hub Sales Opportunities with UAC, 3 r’s (Representation, Respect, Resources), & Next Gen Farmer Program
Women in AG Conference
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
9:00 am - 4:00 am | Houston, TX
Conference is to relay the importance of women in agriculture. This conference explores opportunities for women in agriculture that they may not have been aware of.
Organic Transition at Durbin Creek Ranches
Powell-Palm Ag Services
9:00 am - 5:00 pm | Worland, WY
This event will focus on opportunities to participate in NRCS 823 program, mentorship opportunities through TOPP, and presentations on transition to organic.
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