The Organic Trade Association (OTA) is a leading non-profit membership-based organization headquartered in Washington, D.C., dedicated to promoting and protecting organic trade across the United States. With a legacy spanning over three decades, OTA represents over 9,500 organic businesses—including farmers, ranchers, handlers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers—who are committed to organic principles, sustainability, and ethical food systems.
Core Business and Mission
OTA’s central mission is to foster the growth of organic trade, advocate for effective organic policies, and provide a unified voice for the organic community. The association engages in wide-ranging initiatives such as legislative advocacy, regulatory affairs, organic standards development, international trade promotion, and market research.
Product and Service Offerings
OTA’s services are structured around four primary verticals:
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Advocacy & Policy Engagement
- Supports and lobbies for pro-organic legislation and regulations.
- Played a significant role in securing over $50 million in federal funding for organic research and data initiatives under the Farm Bill.
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Market Research and Industry Intelligence
- Publishes the annual Organic Industry Survey, revealing that U.S. organic sales reached a record $69.7 billion in 2023, with food sales accounting for $61.7 billion.
- Conducts consumer-focused research such as the U.S. Families' Organic Attitudes & Beliefs Study.
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International Trade Support
- Operates under the USDA Market Access Program (MAP) to help members participate in global trade missions and tradeshows.
- Provides resources for navigating export regulations and accessing new global markets.
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Membership Services
- Offers networking opportunities, educational webinars, compliance resources, and certification guidance.
- Organizes flagship events like Organic Week and Organic-Palooza.
Specialization and Unique Value Proposition
OTA is uniquely positioned as the sole organization in the U.S. that unifies all sectors of the organic value chain. Their deep policy influence, industry data, and ability to convene stakeholders at both national and international levels make them an indispensable ally for organic enterprises.
Financials
While OTA operates as a non-profit, its programs are backed by membership dues, strategic partnerships, and federal grants. According to its 2023 public financial disclosures:
- Annual Operating Budget: Estimated at $6.8 million
- Federal Grants and Program Income: Over $2.3 million received under USDA’s MAP and other cooperative agreements
Shipment and Trade Data
OTA does not engage directly in product shipments but facilitates international trade through its Export Promotion Program. Through strategic trade missions:
- Supported participation of U.S. organic exporters in over 15 international trade shows in 2023.
- Helped connect U.S. organic brands with buyers from over 25 countries, enhancing the global footprint of U.S. organic goods.
Target Market
OTA’s membership and advocacy efforts target:
- Organic producers and processors across the U.S.
- Retailers and supply chain actors
- Policymakers and regulatory agencies
- International buyers and partners seeking certified U.S. organic products
Capabilities
- Direct access to federal lawmakers and regulatory agencies for advocacy
- Comprehensive databases of organic market intelligence
- Strong media and public relations capability for outreach and education
- Partnership network that spans federal agencies, certification bodies, and global trade councils
Certifications and Compliance
OTA collaborates closely with the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) and other certifying agencies. The association also plays a consultative role in the development and revision of national organic standards.
Customer Testimonials
- "OTA is the heartbeat of the U.S. organic sector. Their tireless advocacy and data insights are essential for our business strategy." – Jessica Lundberg, Lundberg Family Farms
- "Their export support program opened doors for us in Japan and Europe we could never have accessed alone." – Raj Mehta, Global Organics LLC
Major Achievements
- Instrumental in the passage and renewal of the National Organic Certification Cost Share Program
- Led the Organic PAC, the only political action committee dedicated to organic policy
- Published the Organic Fraud Prevention Guide, a critical tool to enhance transparency and trust across the organic supply chain
- Named as a key partner in the USDA’s Climate-Smart Commodities initiative in 2023
OTA continues to serve as a cornerstone of the organic movement in the United States, shaping policy, advancing trade, and supporting the entire organic ecosystem with trusted leadership and expert insight.
