The Midwest Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) is a coalition of partners across 11 states providing mentorship, technical assistance, and wrap-around support for transitioning and existing organic producers. This coalition of partners serves producers in Arkansas, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.Through TOPP, the Midwest Regional Center and its partner organizations connect farmers transitioning to organic with local, experienced organic mentors; provide farmer training and education; provide education and technical assistance on agronomy, organic certification, extension, conservation planning, organic regulations, certification cost share, business development, and marketing; build networks and strengthen the organic community; develop and expand access to technical assistance and training; and support workforce training and development.
The National Organic Program considers farmer mentorship to be the cornerstone of TOPP. Mentoring is a reciprocal relationship that through support, belonging and trust engenders community building. It is generally defined as a developmental relationship between a mentor and a mentee who have different levels of expertise and skill. A successful relationship between the two, facilitates an opportunity to build and enhance skills while also providing psychological safety and encouragement through friendship that is formed throughout a mentorship. A one-to-one mentorship program under the TOPP program will strengthen the organic community by building relationships between producers, encouraging creative solutions, and providing a social safety net.
Apply to be a mentor or mentee through the USDA TOPP page. Cohort starting Winter 2025!The mentor will receive an annual stipend, and will:
The mentee will:
Mentor Core Qualifications, a mentor will:
Mentee Core Qualifications, a mentee will:
Learn more about the national collaborations that are powering the Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) here.
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