A Step by Step Guide:
Applying for Sustainabilty In Practice (SIP)™ Certification

• Read the Information Package
  
• Read the SIP™ Standards
  
• Complete and Submit the Vineyard Application Form found on Page 11 of the Information Package
  (Be sure to include a signed original of the Mutual NDA, a property map marked with acres, a list of vineyard blocks and acres, and a one time application fee)
  
• Program staff will process your application within ten business days. Applicants will be sent SIP™ Binder, which includes the SIP™ Standards divided by chapters (digital and hard copy), the Information Package (digital and hardcopy), copy of your Vineyard Application and map, and a copy of the fully executed Mutual NDA.
  
• Program staff recommends that once an applicant receives the Standards Binder, they reveiw the Standards in their entirety. It is important to be aware of the record keeping and documentation required for vineyards to meet eligibilty requirements. It is recommended to address Requirements first before moving on to Management Enhancement documentation.
  
• Applicants will be notified in advance of the due date to submit Standards and documentation to the independent auditor. Documentation submission typically falls in mid-June.
  
• Applicants will schedule an on-site audit with the assistance of program staff. On-site audits typically occur in late June through early July.
  
• Once an applicant has completed the off-site and on-site audits, the audit report will be blinded and sent to the Certification Advisory Committee.
  
• Applicants will be notified of SIP™ Certification in late August or early September at which time the Vineyard Certification Agreement and associated fees will be due.

For more detailed information, download the SIP™ Information Package.

For questions or comments, contact Beth Vukmanic at 805-369-2288 or beth@vineyardteam.org.