National Organic Coalition Inc

The National Organic Coalition achieved the following key outcomes as a result of our education and programs in 2025: * Educating and Convening the Organic Community: NOC convened a series of educational events in 2025, engaging more than 700 farmers, advocates, researchers, businesses, and members of the public. These included farmer listening sessions, national summits, and public convenings that provided in-depth education on organic standards, federal policy developments, and market opportunities. Through these events, NOC elevated farmer and stakeholder perspectives, facilitated peer learning, and strengthened shared understanding of challenges and solutions across the organic sector. * Supporting Public Engagement in Organic Standards (NOSB): NOC continued to play a leading educational role in supporting stakeholder participation in the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) process. NOC hosted pre-NOSB meetings, debrief sessions, and issue-focused panels to help farmers, businesses, and advocates understand complex regulatory topics and engage effectively in public comment opportunities. NOC also provided in-depth written and oral comments to the NOSB, contributing research and analysis on issues such as the use of compostable bioplastics in organic compost and the role of synthetic materials in organic systems, helping to uphold the integrity of organic standards. * Facilitating Information Sharing and Technical Education: Through webinars, workshops, and partner convenings-including national meetings connected to the Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP)-NOC provided practical education on topics such as organic market development, certification challenges, recordkeeping, and supply chain dynamics. These efforts equipped farmers, technical service providers, and partner organizations with tools, data, and peer insights to support successful organic production and market access. * Advancing Public Understanding of Organic Policy: NOC educated policymakers, stakeholders, and the public about the role of federal programs, funding, and regulatory frameworks in supporting organic agriculture. Through public events, engagement with USDA officials and Congressional leaders, and coalition engagement, NOC helped clarify the importance of the National Organic Program, organic certification cost-share, and market development initiatives, while elevating the real-world impacts of policy decisions on farmers and businesses. * Strengthening a National Learning Network: NOC expanded and deepened its role as a hub for information exchange and collaboration across the organic community. By growing participation in its events and increasing engagement through newsletters and action alerts, NOC connected diverse organic community members and industry participants, and fostered ongoing dialogue on improving organic standards, reducing barriers to certification, and strengthening organic markets.