The conversation centers around the Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), a USDA initiative aimed at supporting farmers in transitioning to organic practices. Ben Bowell and Jessy Beckett Parr discuss the program’s origins, goals, and the collaborative efforts of various organizations involved. They highlight the importance of technical assistance, mentorship, and community building in fostering a successful organic farming network. The discussion also touches on the program’s impacts, future sustainability, and the significance of respect and collaboration in achieving a better world for agriculture.
Takeaways
TOPP is a USDA initiative with a $100 million budget.
The program aims to support farmers transitioning to organic practices.
Collaboration among organizations is key to the program’s success.
Technical assistance includes one-on-one support and mentorship.
The program has reached thousands through various educational events.
Farmers are compensated for mentoring new organic farmers.
The program is designed to be community-based and regionally tailored.
Future funding and sustainability are ongoing concerns for the program.
The program aims to increase domestic organic production to meet consumer demand.
The national partners are Organic Farmers Association, Trade Association, and Arizona State University Swette Center for Sustainable Food Systems.
The Regional Leads are Oregon Tilth, CCOD, OCIA, MOSA, Florida Organic Growers, and PCO.
Modern Species developed their 2025 Impact Report which helped them secure the remainder of their grant after the government funding freeze.
Read the transcript and find links from the episode at Brands for a Better World
The Brands for a Better World podcast (formerly Evolve CPG) is hosted by Gage Mitchell, founder (CEO) and Creative Director at Modern Species, a sustainable brand design agency helping better-for-the-world brand launch, evolve, and grow to scale their impact.
The post Brands for a Better World: Supporting Organic with Ben Bowell and Jessy Beckett Parr of Transition to Organic Partnership Program appeared first on PRINT Magazine.