Cost Share

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 incur 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. 

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

All certified organic operations can apply for funding through a county Farm Service Agency (FSA) office. FSA applications are due October 31, 2023.

OEFFA hopes to continue to partner with the Ohio Department of Agriculture to administer Ohio’s cost share program. For any operation in Ohio, we will provide additional information as soon as details are available.