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
Farmshare Austin
Cedar Creek, TX
Farmer Starter is a five month entry level immersive farmer training program on a working, certified organic, diversified vegetable farm. Combining hands-on field practice with classroom learning and field trips to local farms, Farmer Starter is designed to provide aspiring farmers with the essential skills and training needed to manage a sustainable farming business.
Organic Farming Research Foundation
OFRF’s Farmer-Led Trials (FLT) program provides farmers with technical assistance and a small amount of funding to investigate and learn about solutions to their most pressing production challenges.
Applications for the 2026 cohort are now open, and will be accepted until December 3rd, 2025. Learn more about the FLT Program and apply today!.
Farmshare Austin
Austin, TX
Join fellow beginning farmer trainers, ag service providers, incubator farm program staff, apprenticeship mentors & others in Austin, TX on November 12-14, 2025 for our 14th annual FIELD School.
In a new location each year, the annual FIELD School brings together over 45-60 organizations from almost every US state (and Canada) to participate in workshops, breakout and open space sessions, goal setting and networking opportunities. Peer-to-peer sharing informs beginning farmer trainers about how they run successful incubator and apprenticeship training programs. Folks gather ideas for their farms and programs, and spent time building relationships with people passionate about our collective work.
Earthly Delights LLC
Austin, TX
New Entry Field School-Tufts
8:00 am - 5:00 pm | Austin, TX
Now in its 14th year, the National FIELD School moves to a new community annually,
fostering regional equity and honoring diverse lands and climates. Each year, 45-60
organizations from across the U.S. and Canada gather for workshops, networking, and
peer-to-peer learning on running successful incubator and apprenticeship programs.
Attendees exchange ideas, build relationships, and visit local farms to see trainingprograms in action. Farmer-led tours provide insights into participant experiences. By strengthening land-based training programs, the event helps improve outcomes forthousands of farmers nationwide.
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.
