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
Arrowleaf Consulting
TBD, ID
Listening sessions will be held to collect additional data for the needs assessment to complement and expand what we learned through the survey related to Idaho farmers’ current organic agriculture interests and support needs.
STATE LEAD: Swette Center for Sustainable Food Systems
10:00 am - 1:00 pm (MT) | Pearce, AZ
Join us to see first-hand how organic farmer Ed Curry uses microalgae to improve soil structure, water retention and nutrient availability.
Ed Curry, founder of Curry Seed & Chile Co., is a nationally recognized organic chile grower and leader in water conservation. On his 3,000-acre farm, Ed prioritizes soil health and plant breeding to maintain both financial and environmental sustainability. Recently, he’s been partnering with MyLand and Arizona State University to implement a new tool to achieve his farm goals: microalgae.
Our field day will focus on real examples of innovative approaches to soil health and water conservation, including:
– a demonstration of MyLand’s microalgae technology
– a presentation on biological inputs from Dr. Ali Muhammed
– discussions and networking opportunities
This event is open to the public. Anyone is welcome to attend.
Michigan TOPP
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (EST) | Virtual
Succession planning starts long before transition becomes urgent. This interactive session will help both beginning farmers and those approaching generational change understand essential steps in farm transfer, business structure, estate considerations, and recordkeeping tools.
The session will include:
- Farmer perspectives video with Bruce Michael Wilson, Katie Brandt and Kyle Mitchell
- Interactive activities to plan for your farmland succession
- A curated list of Michigan‑specific resources, including tools from MI FarmLink, AgPlan, Farm Bureau, TOPP and more
- Guidance on financial and legal considerations that shape long‑term transition
Florida Organic Growers
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm (ET)
Join Florida Organic Growers Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program staff every Thursday from 4 to 5pm (EST) for free “organic office hours”!
This is your chance to delve into in-depth discussions about the challenges you face in your organic journey. Whether you’re a farmer, producer, or simply interested in organic practices, we welcome you to bring your questions and concerns to the table. Our team will be available to provide insights, clarify doubts, and offer guidance on navigating the organic certification process.
This event, supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP), promises to be an enlightening experience for all participants.
Don’t miss out – register here!
Organic Seed Alliance
9:00 am - 11:00 am (PT) | Online
In this series, we will explore the history of the National Organic Program and its regulations, current state of the organic seed industry, and what this practically means for you as an organic inspector. In Part I, you will learn the history of national organic standards within the U.S. context and relevance of the National Organic Programs regulations. Through exploring case studies in Part II, participants will develop a deeper understanding of the nuances of organic seed production from the farmer perspective.
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.
