Organic Farming and Food

Organic Certification Cost Share Program

The program helps organic farmers and processors pay for organic certification. Funding comes from the federal government, and the program is administered through DATCP.

For Fiscal Years 2020-2023, organic farms and companies that sell, process, or package certified organic agricultural products are eligible to receive 50% of certification-related costs incurred, with a maximum of $500 for each category/scope if they meet the following criteria:

• They received initial or continuation/renewal of certification or are in the process of becoming certified organic to USDA National Organic Program (NOP) standards , and
• The certified operation is located in Wisconsin.

Reimbursable certification costs must be receipted by the certifying agency during the period of October 1, 2020 through September 30, 2021 (2021 federal fiscal year). They can include any certification related expenses paid to the certifying agency including inspection and user fees. Late fees, membership dues, and penalties are not eligible for reimbursement. Applications should be submitted by October 31, 2021 to guarantee reimbursement.

To apply, fill out the 2021 Organic Certification Cost Share Program application and return it to DATCP Organic Cost Share Program by mail or email to the contact listed on the application. New applicants must also return a completed W-9 with their application.

If you are certified in more than one category, you are eligible for up to $500.00 for each category. The four scopes and categories include:

• Crop
• Livestock
• Wild crop
• Handler

Funding for this program is provided by and contingent upon funds provided by cooperative agreement between the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service and the WI Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection. (DATCP).

FYI: Published Aug. 10, 2020 in the Federal Register: " For FY 2020 through 2023, FSA is revising the reimbursement amount to 50 percent of the certified organic operation's eligible expenses, up to a maximum of $500 per scope. This change is due to the limited amount of funding available and will allow a larger number of certified organic operations to receive assistance."

Application materials:
2021 Organic Cost Share Application
2021 Organic Cost Share FAQs​
IRS W9 Form
2021 Organic Cost Share Press Release​

Organic Consumer Guide​

Organic Consumer Guide and other promotional and educational materials that support the growth of organic food production and sales in Wisconsin.

Organic Advisory Council​

Twelve-member Council provides guidance to the Secretary of Agriculture, the Governor, the Legislature, and other state agencies on actions that can be taken to further the Wisconsin organic industry.

Publications

Wisconsin Local Food Marketing Guide​

A 106-page guide for food producers interested in entering local food markets

Status Report

Organic Agriculture in Wisconsin: 2017 Status Report

Report compiled in conjunction with the Center for Intergrated Agriculture Systems.

Contact​

Andrew Bernhardt​
Organic Agriculture Programs Specialist
(608) 572-0512
andrew.bernhardt@wisconsi​n.gov​