Introduction

The Midwest Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) is a coalition of partners providing mentorship, technical assistance, and wrap-around support for transitioning and existing organic producers.

Our coalition of partners serves producers in Arkansas, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.

Overview

Through TOPP, the Midwest Regional Center and its partner organizations will 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.

Meet Our Partners

Our coalition of partners collaborates to bring our region innovative solutions to support producers in the organic transition process, build community, and develop capacity in the organic workforce. Our partners represent state departments of agriculture, education institutions, organic certifiers and non-profit organizations.

Does your organization have a presence in our Midwest Region (Arkansas, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, and Wisconsin)?

Could your organization support farmer mentorship, technical assistance, community building or workforce development? Contact MWTOPP@MOSAOrganic.org to get started.

• Iowa Organic Association

• Iowa State University

• The Land Connection

• Marbleseed

• Michigan State University

• Minnesota Department of Agriculture

• Missouri Organic Association

• University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, Center for Arkansas Farms and Food

• University of Wisconsin-Madison

• OFARM

• Ohio Ecological Food and Farming Association (OEFFA)

• Organic Association of Kentucky (OAK)

• Tennessee Organic Growers Association (TOGA)

• Tennessee State University (TSU)

MW TOPP Newsletters

Keep up to date on the latest developments with our newsletter.

MW TOPP Newsletter September 2023

Contact Information

To learn more about the TOPP program, or to apply to become a mentor or mentee, please visit the national TOPP website at: https://www.organictransition.org/