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.
Marbleseed
8:00 am - 5:00 pm (CST) | LaCrosse, Wisconsin
The Marbleseed Organic Farming Conference is widely recognized as the largest organic farming event in the United States. It brings together thousands of organic and regenerative farmers, researchers, and food policy advocates for educational workshops and networking.
Rodale Institute
5:30 pm (EST) | Kutztown, PA
After the screening, we will host a panel of local grain supply chain actors (both farmers and processers) focused on opportunities and challenges in organic processing across the region. What can we learn from each other? Where are there gaps and how do we start bridging them?
WV Food and Farm
Charleston, WV
The annual WV Small Farms Conference is the largest ag conference in WV. The WV Food & Farm Coalition and the TOP Program will be hosting two tracks dedicated to Organic production. One track will be specific to crop production and the other specific to livestock management. Each track will have multiple presentations delivered by experts and educators on relative topics.
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.
