At the CCOF Foundation, we believe our nonprofit programming impact is strongest when it is simultaneously meaningful and measurable. That belief is why we are proud to share that our Organic Transition Program has been third‑party verified by Impact Genome, a leading organization in nonprofit impact assessment. Impact Genome makes it possible for any social program in the world to register and report its results. Their Registry uses universal Impact Standards for outcomes, program design, beneficiaries, context, and evidence of quality to make impact reporting simple and intuitive. In simple terms, it means our impact is reviewed, verified, and backed by outside experts. This independent evaluation was made possible through our partnership with BMO, whose support enabled a rigorous, objective review of the program’s results. Together, we are excited to share what this verification confirms about the farmers we serve and the efficiency and effectiveness of this work.
More than ever, people want to understand how nonprofit programs create real-world results. Third‑party verification adds clarity and trust by evaluating outcomes against shared standards and national benchmarks. Impact Genome reviewed the CCOF Foundation’s Organic Transition Program’s effectiveness, cost efficiency, and data. Their assessment helps ensure that our reported outcomes reflect real progress supporting organic farmers and regenerative practices, not just good intentions.
About the Organic Transition Program
The Organic Transition Program supports farmers during one of the most challenging periods in organic agriculture: the transition itself.
For three consecutive years, our participating farmer grantees receive:
- $10,000 per year in direct financial support
- One-on-one technical assistance tailored to their farm
- Mentorship and networking opportunities
- Referrals to trusted partner organizations
Since its launch, our program has invested more than $1.8 million in 176 farmers, strengthening farms that are environmentally sustainable and economically resilient. The impact metrics in this report reflect the CCOF Foundation’s Organic Transition Program (OTP), which has been independently evaluated for its effectiveness with participating farmers. CCOF’s farmer‑centered model has informed and inspired larger public programs, including California’s CDFA Organic Transition Partnership Program (OTPP) and the USDA Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), and the farmers enrolled in all California-centered transition programs were included in this evaluation.
The program prioritizes farmers who have historically faced barriers to funding and technical support. In 2025 alone, the Organic Transition Program served 48 diverse farmers across California. By meeting farmers where they are and honoring different pathways into agriculture, the program supports diverse operations across regions and communities.
What the Verification Found
Impact Genome verified that the CCOF Foundation’s programs delivered strong, measurable results in 2025. Here’s what’s been verified about the CCOF Foundation’s Organic Transition Program:
- Impact Genome’s evaluation experts rated the supporting evidence for the program’s impact as Extensive. Only 29% of programs reporting on a primary Business Development outcome received this assessment, making the CCOF Foundation’s evidence level equal to or stronger than 93% of all nonprofit programs.
- The program’s effectiveness rate was 100%, well above the sector benchmark of 68–86%. The cost per outcome was $15,413 USD, compared with the sector range of $60,913–$91,178 USD.
- Enrolled farmers demonstrated enhanced organic farming skills, environmental stewardship, and professional networks.
- 100% of participating farmers achieved a positive outcome from the program.
- Every farmer accessed essential financial resources to support their operations.
A Shared Investment in Impact
This evaluation was made possible through BMO’s partnership, reflecting a shared belief that strong data supports smarter investment and greater accountability. By supporting impact measurement, BMO helps ensure that resources are directed where they can do the most good.
We invite you to explore the full Impact Genome Verified Impact Report to learn more about the outcomes, benchmarks, and methodology behind this assessment of our Organic Transition Program. Read the full verified report here.
Thank you for being part of a community advancing organic by supporting the people and communities who care for the land. If you’d like to support this work, you can contribute here or learn other ways to get involved by contacting CCOFFoundation@ccof.org. More information about our programs is available on our website.
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Photo: Organic farmland at ALBA (Agriculture and Land-Based Training Association). ALBA is a key partner in CCOF’s Organic Transition Program.
Photo Credit: Christina Adams, CCOF Graphic Designer
