Ensuring equitable access to organic certification is a priority for CCOF. In one strategy to level the playing field, we are introducing our financial assistance program. Specific discounts vary (see below for more details), but financial aid packages include reduced rates for new application fees, annual fees, and/or other specific certification charges.
We want to help you be successful! Please apply for financial aid if you or your operation falls into one of the following categories:
- Underserved Producers in the United States
CCOF defines underserved farmers, ranchers, and processors as individuals in the United States who belong to groups that have been subject to racial, ethnic, or gender prejudice. Specifically, this includes producers who are Black or African American, American Indian or Alaska Native, Hispanic or Latino, Asian or Pacific Islander, and LGBTQ. We offer application fee waivers and provide reduced annual fees staged over three years to support producers in achieving and maintaining organic certification. - Limited Resource Operations in Mexico
CCOF defines limited resource operations as farmers, ranchers, and processors based in Mexico with an annual Organic Production Value of $200,000 or less. We offer application fee waivers and provide reduced annual fees staged over three years to support producers in achieving and maintaining organic certification. - Disaster Hardship
Financial assistance is available for operations that have been affected by a state- or federal-declared disaster. CCOF offers reduced annual fees based on hardship and Organic Production Value. - Nonprofits or Schools
Nonprofits or schools that provide educational training on organic production practices and do not make a profit from organic sales are eligible for an application fee waiver and a reduced annual fee. - Veterans are eligible for an application fee waiver.
- 100% Women-Owned Businesses are eligible for an application fee waiver.
- Businesses 100% Owned by Formerly Incarcerated Individuals are eligible for an application fee waiver.
Applying for financial aid is straightforward. Fill out our financial assistance questionnaire and send it back to CCOF, and we’ll be in touch about your specific financial aid package.
We want to reach as many qualifying operations as possible, so please help us spread the word! Send your favorite CCOF-certified organic producer to our website to learn more and get started.
Help us save you some money! Apply for financial aid today.