Organic Certification Cost Share Program

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The North Dakota Department of Agriculture administers the USDA Organic Cost Share Reimbursement Program. Organic producers (crops, wild crops, and/or livestock) and/or handlers are eligible for reimbursement of 75 percent of initial or renewal organic certification costs with a maximum of $750.00 per certification scope. Costs paid within the period of October 1, 2023 through September 30, 2024 are eligible.

NDDA has entered into an agreement with Where the Food Comes From and OCIA Chapter 1 to accept applications for reimbursement. Organic operations who are currently working through these two agencies should contact their agency directly. All other producers should contact the Ag Marketing & Development Specialist at the North Dakota Department of Agriculture at 701-328-2191 or scbg@nd.gov. All funds are reimbursed on a first-come first-serve basis until funds are depleted. Applications must be postmarked no later than Nov. 15, 2024.

Three things are needed to process reimbursement:

  1. North Dakota Application
  2. Evidence that the operation holds a valid organic certification to the USDA Organic Regulations issued by a USDA-accredited certifying agent (letter from the agency or certificate)
  3. An itemized receipt that identifies allowable costs PAID within the qualification period.
  4. To receive your reimbursement, you are required to set up an account with Vendor Registry at https://www.omb.nd.gov/doing-business-state/procurement/vendors. For assistance with registration(s) call OMB Vendor Registry at 701-328-2773.
  5. Email completed application and accompanying materials to scbg@nd.gov.
Allowable Costs
Unallowable Costs
  • Application fees
  • Inspection fees, including travel costs and per diem for organic inspectors
  • Certification costs, including fees necessary to access
    international markets which AMS has equivalency agreements or arrangements
  • User fees / sale assessments
  • Postage
  • Inspections due to violations of USDA Organic regulations
  • Charges related to non-USDA organic certifications
  • Transitional certifications
  • Other labeling program
  • Materials, supplies and equipment
  • Late fees
  • Membership fees
  • Consultant fees
 
For more information on this program, contact the Ag Marketing & Development Specialist at 701-328-2191.

Potential applicants that do not wish to apply through NDDA can request assistance from FSA with the information below:

USDA-Farm Service Agency
ND State Office
Tina Pierce
1025 28th St. S.
Fargo, ND 58103
Phone: 701-872-4313, Ext 105
tina.pierce@usda.gov

or

Laura Heinrich
Phone: 701-893-2218
laura.heinrich@usda.gov

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