The USDA recently announced new programs, grant awards, and funding to help producers transition to organic farming and to expand organic markets.
Approximately $24.8 million has already been awarded for 23 grant projects through the Organic Market Development program to increase consumption of domestic organic products.
“Offsetting the costs for organic transition helps more farmers realize higher margins sooner while giving consumers more access to high-demand organic products,” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said. “The partnerships and technical support we offer will ease the transition for producers, and the investments in grant projects we are announcing today will reduce the organic industry’s reliance on imports, lower cost barriers for businesses transitioning to organic, and address crucial infrastructure needs. Together, these resources ensure small and mid-sized producers can gain access to new, profitable markets and further our commitment to maximize American farmers’ share of the food dollar.”
The USDA awarded Oregon Tilth & Organic Farming Research Foundation $5 million to provide organic expertise and hands-on training for producers transitioning to organic. And the Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP) will cover up to 75% of organic certification costs – up to $750 per certification category – easing the financial burden for producers and handlers.
You can read the full notice and review application guidelines here.
