The Transition to Organic Partnership Program is a national network assembled to support transitioning and organic producers via mentorship, education, technical assistance, community-building and market development.
With TOPP, producers transitioning to organic will find support through the transition and certification process. Mentorship, workshops, webinars, field days, technical assistance, and other events offer opportunities to learn about organic production, certification, market opportunities, and more.
The TOPP Northeast/Mid-Atlantic Region is led by Pennsylvania Certified Organic and features a coalition of Core Partners and Project Partners. Core Partners include NOFA NJ, NOFA NY, NOFA NH, NOFA VT, NOFA MASS, CT NOFA, MOFGA, Virginia Association for Biological Farming, and the West Virginia Food & Farm Coalition.
National partners include the National Organic Coalition, Organic Agronomy Training Service, Rodale Institute, Black Farmers Index, Organic Trade Association, National Young Farmers Coalition, and more.
Become A Mentor
Share your knowledge and experience with a producer transitioning to organic. Mentors have the opportunity to guide and support producers who have decided to transition their operation to organic, providing them with valuable insights, practical advice, and industry best practices.
Qualified Mentors Have:
- At least three years of experience with organic production and certification
- A strong understanding of the organic rules and regulations
- Experience with the challenges and benefits of organic production and certification
- An interest in sharing knowledge and giving back to the organic community
Mentors Receive:
- Training, guidance, and support to ensure a successful relationship
- $3,000 stipend for each mentorship year you participate (additional stipend for mentors with more than one mentee)
- Multi-lingual mentors may be eligible for additional compensation
- Apply anytime, applications are accepted on a rolling basis
Become A Mentee
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
Mentee Benefits:
- Learn in a one-on-one or a small group format through the guidance of an experienced organic producer
- Partner with an experienced organic producer to set goals and navigate the transition and certification process
- Get free, expert advice and guidance on organic best practices and certification through individualized communication systems
- Receive support to write the organic system plan
- Access in-person and virtual learning opportunities such as field days, workshops, webinars, and conferences