Organic Seed Alliance

Organic Seed Alliance is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing organic seed systems through research, education, and advocacy. Headquartered in Port Townsend, Washington, the organization was founded in 2003 by plant breeders and seed advocates who recognized that the health of organic farming depends fundamentally on having access to seeds bred and selected for organic conditions. Organic Seed Alliance conducts participatory plant breeding research in partnership with organic farmers, developing crop varieties that are better adapted to organic production systems and diverse regional environments. Its programs address a wide range of crops including vegetables, grains, and legumes, with particular emphasis on developing open-pollinated and public-domain varieties that remain freely available to farmers. The organization provides education and training for farmers, plant breeders, and seed producers through workshops, field days, and online resources. Organic Seed Alliance also publishes the State of Organic Seed report, a comprehensive assessment of the U.S. organic seed sector that tracks trends in variety availability, breeding investment, and policy developments. Its advocacy work engages federal agricultural agencies and policymakers to strengthen public investment in organic plant breeding and protect farmers’ rights to save and exchange seeds. By ensuring that organic farmers have access to high-quality, regionally adapted seeds, Organic Seed Alliance supports the long-term resilience and independence of the organic food system.