Transition to Organic Partnership Program
As part of the USDA’s Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), the ASU Swette Center for Sustainable Food Systems served as the lead in Arizona to support farmers across the state in transitioning to organic and navigating USDA organic certification.
TOPP was a four-year nationwide collaboration assembled by the National Organic Program with the goal of growing the network of domestic organic producers. It offered comprehensive support through farmer-to-farmer mentorship, technical assistance, workforce development and community-building initiatives.
The Swette Center also led the nation’s TOPP data collection and monitoring efforts to capture and describe the magnitude of the program’s impact.
Alongside TOPP partners, we showcased the program’s ability to increase the domestic USDA certified organic supply and uphold consumer trust in the high standards of the USDA organic seal.
From mentorship to public events, the program was a bridge to complementary and ongoing efforts within the organic industry.
2024 Impact Report
The TOPP Impact Report offers a compelling look at the program’s progress in the first two years. Packed with key metrics and powerful stories from farmers and partner organizations, the report conveys the meaningful impact of TOPP on the growth of organic agriculture nationwide. The Swette Center contributed valuable insights through quarterly data collection and analysis for over 165 organizations, measuring TOPP’s influence and elevating the voices in organic farming communities in the United States.