The Organic Transition Program assists organic producers financially for their added costs incurred while transitioning to organic farming.
This program reimburses producers for their paid certification costs up to $1000 maximum.
Who is Eligible?
This program is for farmers in their first, second or third year of pre-certification or for farmers already certified organic and are increasing their organic acreage.
Is Organic Certification Required to Participate?
Yes. The application for assistance for organic crop transition must be submitted within twelve months of obtaining certification. If your operation is not currently certified organic and you would like to learn more about the certification process, please visit our website on the certification process and for additional information please visit the Canada Food Inspection Agency.
What Costs Are Reimbursable?
Eligible costs: Transitional certification inspections, application fees, inspection costs, travel/ per diem for inspectors, user fees, sales assessments, and postage. Ineligible costs: Equipment, materials, supplies, late fees, fees related to equivalency agreement/arrangement requirements, and inspections necessary to address Canada Organic Regulators (COR) regulatory violations.
What is the Maximum Reimbursement Amount?
The maximum reimbursement amount is $1000. *There is no guarantee on the timing of the reimbursement, however a confirmation of receipt of the files will be provided within a week of submission* Ineligible claims Funding will not be granted to those who have abandoned their organic certification or had it cancelled in the last five (5) years.
How Do I Apply for Reimbursement?
We are accepting applications until all funds are allocated, or by June 30, 2023. Apply now by sending your completed form to info@canada-organic.ca **COTA can have the ability to refuse funding if insufficient paperwork is provided**
Note: The maximum reimbursement amount is $1000. There is no guarantee on the timing of the reimbursement, however a confirmation of receipt of the files will be provided within a week of submission.
Seeds of Change® is a sponsor of the program providing incubator funding in the 2020 program. Without them, we never would have been able to fund 41 farmers and convert 6167 of acres to organic nationwide!
Mill Street Brewery joined the initiative in 2021 to fund 20 farmers as a way to give back to the organic community.
