- 1). Submit an application to become a certified organic farmer, if you are not already certified. Details of the certification process, which is quite extensive, can be found at National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service's website (see Resources). This process involves finding a suitable certifying body in your state that is accredited by the National Sustainability Service; a farm inspection; and several items of paperwork, including farm maps and a farmer questionnaire.
- 2). Contact local markets and grocery stores and ask if they are interested in your organic products. Ask to set up a meeting with the owner or whoever is responsible for ordering the shop's products. Bring samples of your products to the meeting and prepare a presentation on the benefits of local, organic produce.
- 3). Set up contracts with the companies who buy your products. Have a lawyer oversee your contract, to ensure that it is legally binding and worded properly.
- 4). Deliver your products in full and on time with every order. According to the Chelsea Green sustainable living website, this is the most important rule of professional, organic farming. Delivering in full and on time will help you develop a strong relationship with your clients and a good reputation within the industry. If your reputation is strong, you can expand your business to larger shops and markets in other areas.
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