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
MA'O Organic Farms
2:00 am - 6:00 am (HAT) | Honolulu, HI
Community event to meet with other folks in the organic food movement and discuss current topics.
Minnesota Institute of Sustainable Agriculture
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm (CST) | St. Paul, Minnesota
Farming or thinking about starting a farm?
Join UMN researchers and Extension educators for updates on organic fruit and vegetable research at the student organic farm and the Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station on St. Paul campus.
Topics include: organic insect management, integrating livestock into vegetable farms, new crops for Minnesota, irrigation strategies, and more!
Viva Farms
3:00 pm - 6:00 pm (PT) | Burlington, WA
Talk with organic growers, test new tech,and learn practical ways to improveefficiency and sustainability on yourorganic farm. Practice in-field cultivation,and get behind the wheel during ride-and-drive demos of mechanicalcultivation tools, including electrictractors.
University of Puerto Rico
10:30 am - 12:00 pm (ET) | Online
- Common barriers to certification
- Market access limitations and opportunities
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Policy, technical, and financial support options
NOFA NH
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm (EST) | online
Interested in Organic Farming?
Are you curious about what it takes to grow under organic regulations? Want to better understand the organic standards or how your current practices might align?
Join our online gathering for an open discussion and Q&A session! We’ll cover the basics of organic production, help you navigate the regulations, and explore what organic really means—and what it doesn’t.
Whether you’re just starting out or already using organic practices, this is a space to ask questions, share ideas, and connect with others on the journey. Everyone is welcome!
News
Impact Report: Two Years of Progress
A story of collective action, meaningful partnerships, and measurable change.
