US organic produce

The Organic Trade Association (OTA) has revealed that its 2009 annual fund campaign, designed to help fund government affairs and marketing programmes in the US and Canada, has raised over US$520,000.

Over 200 companies pledged funds to support the OTA's work, under the campaign theme of 'Today, Tomorrow, Together, Organic', designed to reflect the group's vision to grow organics and ensure sustainability.

'Although this falls somewhat short of our ambitious goal of US$650,000, the generous support of organic companies in tough economic times is indicative of continued commitment to work together for the good of the organic industry,' said Julia Sabin, co-chair of the OTA 2009 annual fund host committee and OTA board president.

Fellow co-chair Jeff Rakity added: 'It is gratifying to see OTA members and non-members, regardless of size, giving to the annual fund because they identify that OTA's priorities and initiatives are critical to growing the organic sector.'

The campaign's top donors will be recognised at the OTA's annual dinner, which takes place on 17 June in Chicago.

'I want to thank investors at all levels for their generous donation, as well as the volunteer host committee members for the many hours they devoted in making the campaign a success,' said OTA executive director Christine Bushway.