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The Non-GMO Project is the only nonprofit, third-party certification program working toward GMO transparency and non-GMO food choices. Together, we can build a more natural and sustainable food system for all.
Equitable transfer program
BIPOC-led businesses operating in the food, beverage or body care industries can apply for funding to cover costs associated with Non-GMO Project verification.
Announcements
Application period is now open! All applicants must submit completed materials by November 13, 2026.
Beginning September 2026, we are now including Non-UPF Verified in the ETP program, along with Non-GMO Project. We aim to have representation across both verification programs and encourage brands to consider which verification best supports their values and goals.
Justice and diversity are essential to building a better food system
Black, Indigenous, and People of Color-led (BIPOC) companies are driving real change in their communities and in the food system—often while navigating systemic barriers and marginalization along every aspect of the supply chain. The Equitable Transfer Program (ETP) exists to acknowledge and address this gap, partnering with BIPOC-led brands to expand their access to more sustainable supply chains, gain greater visibility for the products they're bringing to market, and support their community impact.
Each round, the Program will allot $20,000 USD total, distributed among grant recipients with a maximum of $10,000 per recipient, to cover or offset the costs associated with Non-Ultraprocessed Verified or Non-GMO Project verification. Payments will be made directly to your Technical Administrator (TA) at the time of enrollment.
To be eligible to apply, your business must:
- Self-identify as a BIPOC-led company;
AND
- Be enrolling or renewing eligible products in:
- the Non-GMO Project or Non-UPF Verified Product Verification Program. *All such products must likely comply with the current version of the Non-GMO Project Standard or the Non-UPF Verified Standard.
AND
- In order to ensure brands have knowledge of the requirements of the program they are applying for, we require all applicants that are not already enrolled in the program they are applying for to please do one of the following:
The application process
1. Check eligibility
Applicants must meet all program eligibility requirements. Schedule a meeting to learn more about the steps to verification and eligibility questions.
Please review our Program Terms and Conditions and the Non-GMO Project Standard section 2.1 Product Categories.
2. Connect with a Technical Administrator
A Technical Administrator (TA) will review the product portfolio the applicant is submitting for verification.
3. Obtain a cost estimate
At your request, the Technical Administrator will provide an estimate outlining the projected verification costs. If you are already a program participant, please provide the invoice from your TA.
4. Submit your completed application before the deadline
Fill out the ETP application with all relevant materials included, and submit by November 13, 2026.
5. Application review period
The ETP Committee will review submissions between November 16-December 11, 2026. Once a recipient(s) is selected, they will be notified with instructions on the next steps. Learn more about the selection criteria.
Start the application
Please review your eligibility and the application process before you begin. Click below to start your application, which you will need to complete in one sitting.
Meet past recipients
The ETP Committee has awarded $46,000 in grants to 17 BIPOC-led businesses to date. We are thrilled to feature some of the past recipients! Learn more about each of the amazing brands by clicking on the images below and/or checking out their press releases.
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