Last month, Oregon Tilth joined a coordinated advocacy effort urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture to clarify the future of critical funding for the Organic Market Development Grants (OMDG) and the Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP).

These programs represent vital investments in the growth and resilience of the organic sector—and the communities, farmers, and businesses it supports.

A United Call for Clarity

In collaboration with the Organic Trade Association (OTA), Oregon Tilth supported two letters submitted to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins requesting transparency and sustained investment in OMDG and TOPP.

• The first letter was led by ten state departments of agriculture, representing regions across the country and a diverse range of agricultural commodities – including grain, specialty crops, and livestock. Oregon Tilth played a key role in securing support from the Oregon Department of Agriculture. 
• The second letter was co-signed by nearly 100 organic farmers, organizations, and educational institutions, reflecting broad grassroots and sector-wide momentum. Oregon Tilth is proud to be a signatory on the letter, reinforcing its message to USDA leadership.

Both letters urge the USDA to disburse committed funds and provide clarity on the next steps, ensuring these vital programs can continue supporting mentorship, education, market access, and organic infrastructure.

Oregon Tilth’s Direct Role in Driving Support

As one of the six TOPP regional leads, Oregon Tilth plays a central role in supporting producers transitioning to organic in the western U.S. We’re proud to have added our voice and action to this important advocacy effort.

“As an organization with over 50 years of experience advancing organic agriculture, we know how essential programs like TOPP and OMDG are to our food system’s future. These initiatives create pathways for farmers, businesses, and communities to thrive.” — Chris Schreiner, CEO, Oregon Tilth 

Why These Programs Matter

Since launching in 2022:

• TOPP has supported thousands of farmers by connecting them with mentorship, technical support, and transition resources.
• OMDG has funded 100+ projects in 37 states—many led by small and rural businesses—to help build domestic organic markets and reduce reliance on imports.

“TOPP has been a game-changer for creating community-centered support around the organic transition. This program does more than provide funding, it empowers people and strengthens practices that make organic agriculture more accessible, resilient, and rooted in the community.” — Ben Bowell, Education & Advocacy Director, Oregon Tilth

With projects already in progress and demand growing, the need for clarity on continued funding is urgent. Farmers, nonprofits, universities, and businesses all rely on these programs to sustain and scale their impact.

United for Organic Growth

While not all state departments of agriculture were able to sign on due to timing or internal policies, Oregon Tilth celebrates the collaborative spirit of this advocacy effort. From public agencies to private businesses, this campaign reflects a shared belief in the long-term value and impact of organic.

We’re especially proud of the coalition that made this moment possible—TOPP partners, farmers, advocates, and organizations across the country—all united in support of a stronger organic future.

“We hope USDA leadership recognizes the impact these programs are already making—and the even greater potential they hold with continued support. Organic is a solution. We’re ready to keep building.” — Chris Schreiner, CEO, Oregon Tilth

We are grateful to our partners at OTA, state departments of agriculture, and the many organizations who signed on. Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient future for organic—through advocacy, education, and collaboration. The work continues, and we’re proud to stand alongside you.