Looking for an organic certifier for your small business? USDA NOP-accredited certifying agents provide organic certification services to businesses that want to display organic claims on their products. These certifiers work with a wide range of operations, including farms, food manufacturers, livestock operations, brands, processors, handlers, importers, exporters, and more.
When choosing an organic certifier, small businesses should consider the types of operations the certifier works with, service area, fees, customer support, and resources available to new applicants.
CCOF is one USDA-accredited certifying agent serving businesses throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico. As one of the largest and longest-serving organic certification agencies in North America, we help businesses navigate the USDA organic certification process with personalized support, educational resources, and nationwide service.
What Should a Small Business Look for in an Organic Certifier?
Choosing an organic certifier is an important decision. Here are some factors to consider when comparing certification services.
Experience with businesses like yours
CCOF works with thousands of certified organic operations ranging from small family farms to national brands. We certify a wide range of businesses, including farms, food manufacturers, livestock operations, brands, processors, handlers, importers, exporters, and more.
See our directory to find a CCOF-certified neighbor.
Applicant support and customer service
For a first-time applicant, understanding the organic certification process can feel overwhelming. Look for a certifier that provides clear information about the application process, requirements, fees, and timelines. CCOF is governed by a board of directors elected by certified members, helping ensure our services remain focused on the needs of organic producers and businesses.
Resources for first-time applicants
CCOF’s bilingual applicant support team can help applicants understand the certification process, expected timelines, fees, and USDA organic requirements. CCOF also offers educational resources and grant programs through the CCOF Foundation, and we maintain a list of organic consultants for businesses seeking technical assistance.
Inspection coordination
Organic certification includes an inspection of the operation. When choosing a certifier, consider where the certifier works and how inspections are coordinated. With clients and inspectors across the nation, we strive to coordinate an efficient inspection process for certified operations.
Ongoing compliance
CCOF’s certification service specialists are available to help clients understand why specific information is requested and how those requests connect to USDA National Organic Program regulations.
Certification costs and financial assistance
Certification costs can vary depending on the type and size of the operation, so small businesses should review a certifier’s fee structure before applying. CCOF maintains transparent certification fees and offers a Financial Aid Program for qualifying participants.
New Applicant FAQs
How Long Does Organic Certification Take?
Timelines to achieve certification vary across certifiers. With CCOF, organic certification typically takes about four months, although the complexity of the operation, application completeness, inspection scheduling, and responsiveness during the review process all impact this process.
How Do I Get Organically Certified?
The process generally includes:
- Completing application to create your Organic System Plan
- Undergoing a certification review
- Completing an inspection
- Addressing any follow-up requests
- Receiving a certification decision
Does CCOF Certify Small Businesses?
Yes. CCOF certifies operations of many sizes, from small family farms and beginning businesses to larger national brands. Our team can help you understand the certification process and determine what is needed for your operation.
How Do I Choose an Organic Certifier?
When comparing organic certifiers, consider whether they certify your type of operation, where they provide certification services, their fee structure, the support they provide to applicants, and the resources available to help you maintain certification.
Is CCOF a Good Fit for Small Businesses?
CCOF certifies operations of many different sizes and types, including small and beginning businesses. Our Applicant Support team can walk you through the certification process and help you understand what is required before you apply.
If you’re considering organic certification, you can contact CCOF at getcertified@ccof.org or join one of our monthly Applicant Support Help Desk Sessions to get your questions answered.
Request an application today and take the first step toward organic certification with CCOF.
