Sep 23, 2024

North Carolina organic certification cost-share assistance offered

North Carolina is offering organic certification cost-share assistance for growers.

The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) is offering financial assistance to organic growers for certification costs incurred between Oct. 1, 2023, and Sept. 30, 2024.

The program, funded by a $135,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, provides up to 75% reimbursement per certification category, with a maximum of $750 per category.

Eligible categories include crops, livestock, wild crop and handler/processor. Funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, and Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler encourages early application.

To apply, growers must submit a completed application, detailed invoices from their certifying agency, proof of payment, a substitute W-9 form, and a copy of their organic certificate or a letter from the certifier for new certifications. The application deadline is Oct. 31.

Applications and required documents can be submitted via mail, fax, or email to the NCDA&CS Organic Certification Cost Share Program. More details and the application form are available on the NCDA&CS website or through local Farm Service Agency offices. For inquiries, contact Heather Lifsey at 919-749-3337.