Cost Share

The Organic Cost-Share Program is available for 2023! 

OEFFA is pleased to administer the cost share reimbursement program for the benefit of all of Ohio’s certified producers and handlers through partnership with the Ohio Department of Agriculture. Cost Share reimbursement is also available through your county FSA office. 

The National Organic Certification Cost Share Program (NOCCSP) reimburses certification fees for both producers and handler/processors. Reimbursement is limited to 75% of certification costs, up to a maximum of $750 per certificate or category (scope) of certification, per year. Four Categories of certification are eligible for reimbursement under the NOCCSP: crops, wild crops, livestock, and handler.

Allowable and Unallowable Certification Costs

Producers and handlers who paid annual costs to begin or renew their organic certification during the period October 1, 2022 to September 30, 2023 are currently eligible to receive reimbursement.  For applicants in Ohio submitting their application to OEFFA: applications must be postmarked by DECEMBER 10, 2023. 

Allowable Costs

• Application fees
• Inspection costs
• First-time USDA NOP certification fees
• Travel costs / per diem for organic inspectors
• User fees / sales assessments
• Postage

Unallowable Costs

• Late fees
• Inspections due to violations of NOP regulations
• Any charges related to certifications other than USDA organic
• Transitional certifications
• Materials and supplies
• Equipment

How To Apply