Step 1: Apply and Agree to Terms and Conditions

• Applications must be completed each year. A grower may apply online by logging into their Grower Dashboard or request a paper application by calling (865.622.4606) or emailing (info@gapconnections.com) GAPC. 

• Growers will choose their Monitoring Firm at time of application. Review the 2024 Approved Monitoring Firm Information for options.

• If you operate your operation with more than one grower and want to list Associate Growers on your application, everyone must meet ALL Associated Grower Criteria.

• Associated Growers must accept Terms and Conditions after Application is approved by logging in to their Grower Dashboard.

• If you work with a consultant, please complete the Consultant Authorization at time of application to allow them access to your grower reports and information within GAPC.  If you are interested in learning more about or working with a consultant, review the GAPC Consultant Partners list. 

Step 2: Prepare for Monitoring Visit

• Review the 2024 GAPC Certification Compliance Guide for requirements and questions for U.S. and International Certification.

• Complete your self-assessment via the Grower Dashboard. 

• Annual Training must be completed online for each grower listed on the application (Primary and Associates) by June 30. 

• Review the details on Hemp Certification Monitoring Visits.

• Review the 2024 Hemp Certification Checklist found in the 2024 Hemp Certification Compliance Guide.

 Step 3: Complete Monitoring Visit & Remediation (if needed)

• At the end of the Monitoring Visit, the auditor should review the results with you and let you know if there is any remediation needed.

• Within 72 hours of the Monitoring Visit, the report should be submitted to GAPC and be sent to you via your selected preferred method of communication (mail or email).  If you selected email as your preferred method of communication and have not received your report within 72 hours contact your monitoring firm.

• Review the results and begin any remediation that is needed. Remediation processes can be found in the 2024 GAPC Hemp Certification Compliance Guide.

• If remediation requires a Corrective Action Plan use the GAPC template (Word or PDF).

Step 4: GAPC Certified Grower

• After the final report (remediation is completed if needed) is submitted to GAPC, GAPC will review the report and issue GAPC Certificate Certificates if criteria is met.

• Certificates are sent to Certified Growers via the preferred method of communication selected by grower at time of application.

• All denials are reviewed by a Committee before issuance.  Growers who are denied will be notified via the preferred method of communication selected by grower at time of application.

• If a grower does not agree with the Certification findings or decision, GAPC offers an appeals process. The GAPC Appeals Process requires a grower to write a formal letter to GAP Connections identifying their complaint/appeal within 30 days from the date GAPC issues notice of Certification or denial of Certification.