We want to make it possible for all eligible farmers to earn Regenerative Organic Certified®. We don’t want anyone turned away because of cost. That’s why we’ve created the Farmer Cost-Share Fund.
What is the Farmer Cost-Share Program?
The Farmer Cost-Share Program provides financial help to farmers and handlers of agricultural products who are applying to be Regenerative Organic Certified™ (ROC™). Our program is modeled after the National Organic Program cost-share fund, which helps farmers pursuing organic certification offset the costs of the process. For many farmers, this funding makes it possible for them to earn certification and the market premium that follows.
Who is eligible?
Eligible operations include any certified producers or handlers who have paid ROC™ fees to a ROA-approved certifying body and who have gross annual regenerative organic crop production value (GROCPV) of <$250,000.
ROA funds are limited, and applications are paid on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications received after all funds are distributed will be deferred to the following year.
Which costs are covered?
Certified operations may receive up to 75% of their certification costs paid during the program year, not to exceed $1000 per certification scope [pillar].
Eligible expenses for cost-share reimbursement include application fees, inspection costs, fees related to equivalency agreement and arrangement requirements, travel expenses for inspectors, user fees, sales assessments, soil testing and postage.
Ineligible costs include equipment, materials, supplies, transitional certification fees, late fees and inspections necessary to address ROC™ violations.
How do I apply?
Click here to access the application form. You’ll need a copy of your current ROC certificate, a W-9, and any itemized receipts identifying eligible costs paid within the qualification period (the year of your certification). Thank you for your interest!
Apply Now
You’ll need a copy of your current ROC certificate, a W-9, and any itemized receipts identifying eligible costs paid within the qualification period (the year of your certification).
Donate to the Farmer Cost-Share Program
Want to support regenerative organic farmers? 100% of all donations to the Farmer Cost-Share Fund go to a farmer on the journey to Regenerative Organic Certified®.