USDA grants millions to help NC farmers, business owners

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — Millions of dollars are now available for North Carolina farmers and other small business owners in the agriculture industry.

The state department of agriculture and the USDA are offering a total of $6.2 million to small agricultural businesses, with the grants ranging from $10,000 up to $2 million.

Beth Farrell with the state department of agriculture said that money can help with equipment and infrastructure, with the goal of expanding a grower’s food supply and their reach.

“Our hope is that this gets more North Carolina food into multiple distribution channels, whether it’s to restaurants, into grocery stores, into additional places like food hubs,” said Farrell.

Darius and Shameeka McKoy own 12:03AM Farm in Sampson County. They’ve owned the farm for nearly two years, growing fruits, vegetables and herbs.

The McKoys told CBS 17 they’re applying for the grant, in hopes of producing more food and one day opening a farmers market to bring fresh food to their community.

“We don’t have a lot of things to get started so having an opportunity to apply for these grants will be very beneficial for us,” said Darius.

You can apply for the grant until June 15. For more information, click here. For information about eligibility requirements, click here .

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