October 21, 2024
VDACS Announces Reimbursement Funding for Eligible Organic Growers and Processors
~ Reimbursement funding available for 50 percent of organic certification cost ~

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is inviting eligible organic growers and processors to apply for reimbursement of 50 percent of their 2023-2024 organic certification costs. Send in applications soon, as funds will be distributed on a first come, first served basis.

This funding relief for certified organic growers and processors is made available through the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Organic Program, which funds the National Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP).

To be eligible for OCCSP reimbursement funding, organic growers and processors must have successfully completed organic certification from a USDA-accredited organic certifying agency between October 1, 2023 and September 30, 2024. Reimbursements are limited to a maximum of $750 per category of certification. OCCSP applications are due to VDACS by November 30, 2024. Funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until they are depleted.

The OCCSP application is available at www.vdacs.virginia.gov/pdf/organiccostshare.pdf. Applications should include a Commonwealth of Virginia W-9 tax form, a current copy of the applicant’s organic certificate from an accredited certification agency, and a dated, paid itemized invoice from the certification agency detailing total cost of services rendered.

Organic production information is available at www.vdacs.virginia.gov/sales-certified-organic.shtml.