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
Iowa State University Organic Agriculture Program
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm (CST) | Online or Curtiss Hall in Ames, Room 13
The Iowa State University Organic Agriculture program offers a 16 week course, ” Organic Agriculture Theory and Practice Course,” to provide an understanding of the historical origins and ecological theories behind the practices related to organic agriculture.
This course offers an interdisciplinary examination of organic crop and livestock production and socio-economic processes and policies in organic agriculture from researcher and producer perspectives.
Red Acre Center
Cedar City, UT
Training for our farmer training program. 4 Selected individuals that meet for weekly instruction and hands-on, including field work, CSA set up and pick up, farmers markets, and farm tours.
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
Stephenville, TX
Great chance to learn more about the cottage food industry, food safety, farmers markets and consumer demand for organic.
PCO
10:00 am - 11:00 am (EST) | Online
Join us on this webinar to review the basics of organic certification. Our Organic Record Keeping webinar will attempt to answer common certification questions including: What records are needed? Are all records submitted to my certifying agency? How do my records tie to inspection audits? What are some examples of recordkeeping and how they are kept (electronic, paper, etc.)? Review of some available templates.
Preregistration is required.
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
12:00 am - 12:00 am | Edinburg, TX
We are preparing to host a Canning Demonstration Workshop to teach participants the basics of safe food preservation using seasonal produce grown on the farm. This hands-on workshop will guide attendees through water bath canning techniques, food safety practices, and ways to reduce food waste by preserving surplus fruits and vegetables. Participants will take home educational materials and samples to encourage at-home practice. By combining traditional food preservation methods with local, fresh produce, the workshop aims to increase food security, promote self-sufficiency, and reduce food spoilage.
News
Impact Report: Two Years of Progress
A story of collective action, meaningful partnerships, and measurable change.
