Organic Certification Cost Share
The 2024 Organic Cost Share Reimbursement has opened for producers, processors and handlers to apply for.
The Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP) provides cost-share assistance to producers and handlers of agricultural products for the costs of obtaining or maintaining organic certification under the USDA's National Organic Program.
Guidelines and Uses
Eligible producers include any certified producers or handlers who have paid organic certification fees to a USDA-accredited certifying agent during the 2024 and any subsequent program year.
Producers can be reimbursed for expenses made between Oct. 1, 2023, and Sept. 30, 2024, including application fees, inspection costs, fees related to equivalency agreement and arrangement requirements, travel expenses for inspectors, user fees, sales assessments, and postage.
Funding
The Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP) as part of USDA's broader effort to support organic producers and in response USDA/FSA will cover up to 75% of costs associated with organic certification, up to $750 maximum for each of the following categories (or "scopes"): crops, wild crops, livestock, processing/handling.
The application process is done on a first come first serve basis or until the funds run out. So please get your applications in as soon as you receive them. We will not start processing applications until August 1, 2024. All applications must be postmarked by October 31, 2024.
How to Apply
Utilize the letter and application templates and submit via e-mail or mail below.
Mailing information:
PA Department of Agriculture
Bureau of Market Development
2301 N Cameron St
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Attn: Michele Brookins