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
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.
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.
Florida Organic Growers
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm (EST)
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 Farmers Association
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm (ET)
As weather patterns become more erratic, the need for irrigation to germinate seeds for an even stand, as well as provide moisture as the crop matures, dictates the need for a watering strategy that fits the scale, crops, soil types and capabilities of the farmer. There are numerous irrigation systems, movable or static, drip or overhead, well or surface water and more that could be used. We will discuss what is working in your region and farm type, as well as where to buy equipment and problem solve to improve your current system.
National Center for Appropriate Technology
10:00 am - 2:00 pm (CT) | 207 High St., Natchez, MS 39120
Join NCAT Agriculture Specialist Audrey Kolde for a hands-on mushroom cultivation and marketing workshop, hosted by Florida Organic Growers (FOG) and the SE TOPP project. Whether you’re a backyard grower, community gardener, or beginning farmer, this workshop will guide you through the fundamentals of growing gourmet mushrooms—and how to turn them into a profitable part of your farm or homestead.
Lunch will be provided.
Questions? Gabriella Soto-Velez, [email protected]
This event is made possible with support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP).
News
Impact Report: Two Years of Progress
A story of collective action, meaningful partnerships, and measurable change.
