Administered by MOSA Certified Organic on behalf of all of Ohio’s Certified Producers and Handlers
MOSA Certified Organic has been selected by the Ohio Department of Agriculture to administer the 2023-2024 Cost Share Program for all certified organic operations in Ohio. We’re very excited to do so, and our goal is to increase the number of operations that receive certification cost reimbursement. Let’s not leave money on the table!
What is cost share? The Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP) is funded through the Farm Bill. OCCSP provides cost share assistance to producers and handlers of agricultural products who are obtaining or renewing their certification under the National Organic Program (NOP). The USDA contracts with each state to distribute the funds; in Ohio, funds are distributed through either the Farm Service Agency (FSA) or the Ohio Department of Agriculture, which has subcontracted with MOSA. Note: you may only work with one agency for reimbursement. Cost Share reimbursement may not be received from both MOSA and FSA.
Ohio producers or handlers who paid fees to begin or renew their organic certification between October 1, 2023, and September 30, 2024, are eligible to receive reimbursement for 75% of eligible certification fees up to a maximum of $750 for each certified scope, i.e., crops, wild crops, livestock, producer/handling.
Eligible expenses: certification application fees, inspection costs, fees related to equivalency agreement and arrangement requirements, inspector travel expenses, user fees, sales assessments, and postage.
Ineligible expenses: late fees, inspection fees due to violations of NOP regulations, materials, supplies, equipment, fees for non-NOP certifications or other labeling programs, membership fees, and consultant fees.
To apply for reimbursement, complete this application form and submit the items indicated below. New this year: You do not have to submit a copy of your Organic Certificate; MOSA will retrieve it from the NOP’s Organic Integrity Database.
Completed applications and all necessary documents must be postmarked by December 20, 2024. Reimbursements will be paid on a first-come basis until program funds are exhausted. Please allow up to six weeks to receive your reimbursement. MOSA will notify you if your application is not complete; missing information could delay your funds.
Please submit the following documents:
- Organic Certification Cost Share Reimbursement Application (page 2)
- Copy of invoice(s) showing the fees you paid for certification between October 1, 2023, and September 30, 2024. See above for eligible and ineligible certification expenses. Invoices must be marked paid by the certifying agent with a $0.00 balance due.
- Completed W-9 Form (download).
For new producers or handlers: your operation must be certified organic by your Certification Agency before you submit your Cost Share application.
For questions or to submit your application:
MOSA Certified Organic
PO Box 821
Viroqua, WI 54665
844-637-2526