The USDA announced new programs, partnerships and grant awards along with an additional $10 million in funding to expand markets for organic products and help producers transition to organic production. These programs will provide hands-on training for producers transitioning to organic production and ease the burden of obtaining organic certification.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said, “Offsetting the costs for organic transition helps more farmers realize higher margins sooner while giving consumers more access to high-demand organic products.

Launched in 2022, the Organic Transition Initiative (OTI) offers programs and resources to help both existing organic farmers and those transitioning to organic production. One such program is the Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), which builds mentorships between transitioning and existing organic farmers.

Read more about the USDA organic production incentives here.