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NIHC Secures Additional Funding to Promote U.S. Industrial Hemp Globally

NIHC Secures Additional Funding to Promote U.S. Industrial Hemp Globally

WASHINGTON, Feb. 13, 2026, As a cooperator in multiple U.S. Department of Agriculture agricultural promotion programs, NIHC is pleased to announce it has secured an additional funding for 2026 through the Market Access Program (MAP).

The MAP initiative helps create, expand and maintain long-term export markets for U.S. agricultural products. Under the program, FAS partners with U.S. non-profit commodity or trade associations (cooperators) to promote U.S. agricultural products overseas. Preference is given to organizations that represent an entire industry or are nationwide in membership and scope and have the infrastructure to run the program.

“This marks the fifth continuous year of funding from the USDA MAP,” said NIHC President & CEO Patrick Atagi.  “We sincerely thank the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service for recognizing the work that NIHC is doing on behalf of the industrial hemp industry. We look forward to continuing our partnership with USDA and executing programs in key markets around the globe that connect U.S. industrial hemp growers and companies with foreign buyers.”

The recent announcement of nearly $200,000 in additional funding, along with funding previously announced, will support the strong foundation established through our ongoing efforts. NIHC will continue to:

  • Advocate for hemp’s inclusion in key agricultural commodity discussions internationally.

“USDA’s market development programs crowd in private sector capital to help promote U.S. food, fuel, and fiber to foreign buyers.” said Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke J. Lindberg. “Partnering with industry ensures that these resources are deployed efficiently and effectively, and that decisions are farmer driven.”

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The National Industrial Hemp Council is the trusted voice of America’s industrial hemp industry. We bring together growers, processors, manufacturers, and policymakers to build a marketplace based on consistency, transparency, and consumer trust. As a vetted partner of the federal government, we use federal funds to support our mission: to give consumers confidence, provide businesses with clarity, and position U.S. hemp as an essential part of the global economy. We achieve this through guidance from subject matter experts, industry experience, and science-based programs. To foster a thriving global industry, we work with international hemp partners through our membership and participation in the Federation of International Hemp Organizations (FIHO), the Asian Industrial Hemp Federation (AIHF), as well as ASTM International, the American Society for Testing and Materials, and A2LA, Assessment Accreditation Services.

NIHC on Capitol Hill to Promote Unified Policy Framework

Working Together Works: NIHC Promotes a Unified Policy Framework for Industrial Hemp

NIHC Policy Co-Chair Tim McCarthy joined other hemp industry leaders on Capitol Hill with one shared goal: to find common ground and build a unified policy framework for industrial hemp.

The discussions focused on aligning priorities around regulations for hemp crops, testing standards, and regulatory clarity to enhance global competitiveness. Together, we’re demonstrating that collaboration, not division, is the path to a stronger, more profitable, and more sustainable hemp industry.

We look forward to continued collaboration toward a workable solution for the entire industry, building on the years-long effort behind the Fit for Purpose Platform. By uniting under a shared vision, we can strengthen our voice in Washington, open new markets, and build confidence across the supply chain.

At the end of the day, it’s simple, as NIHC President & CEO Patrick Atagi often says: Working Together Works!

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Stay current with NIHC’s activity to promote Industrial Hemp: Follow us on LinkedIn.

Senate Agriculture Committee Discussions

Hemp Policy Heats Up on Capitol Hill

If you’ve seen the recent headlines about “closing the hemp loophole,” you know the debate in Washington is intensifying. As more than three dozen state attorneys general urge Congress to act, lawmakers in both chambers are weighing next steps for hemp in the upcoming federal spending bills—and in a potential new Farm Bill when they return.

NIHC has been working with leaders on Capitol Hill, including discussions just this morning with the Senate Agriculture Committee, to ensure that the voice of the legitimate U.S. hemp industry is represented in these critical negotiations.

Here’s what’s happening:

  • Sen. Mitch McConnell (R–Ky.), who championed hemp’s legalization in 2018, continues to support a regulated and viable hemp sector.
  • Rep. Andy Harris (R–Md.) is pressing for tighter controls on hemp-derived intoxicants through appropriations language.
  • Sen. Rand Paul (R–Ky.) has placed a hold on the Senate’s spending package, warning that current proposals could “eliminate the industry.”
  • State attorneys general are calling for stronger federal oversight to address synthetic THC products made through the chemical conversion of hemp.

NIHC is actively working with congressional leaders and federal agencies to find a balanced solution—one that protects consumers while preserving the legitimate markets for fiber, grain, and cannabinoid products. Our “Fit-for-Purpose” framework continues to gain traction as a common-sense, bipartisan path forward for smart hemp regulation.

Check out our platform here. 

As negotiations continue, NIHC remains on the Hill—advocating for clarity, safety, and growth across all sectors of the U.S. hemp economy.

Stay tuned for updates as we work with policymakers toward a solution that strengthens, not stifles, America’s hemp future.`

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Stay current with NIHC’s activity to promote Industrial Hemp: Follow us on LinkedIn.

House Committee On Agriculture Chairman G1 Thompson

NIHC Meets with U.S. House Agriculture Committee Staff

Urgent issues include Fit for Purpose initiative, tariffs, access, and standards.

National Industrial Hemp Council of America (NIHC) met with the U.S. House Agriculture Committee professional staff to discuss NIHC’s Fit for Purpose initiative, the NIHC Verify™ program, and tariffs on China CBD.

The meeting was attended by Tim McCarthy, NIHC Policy Committee Chair; Ken Meyer, Co-Chair; Josh Schneider, co-author of Fit-for-Purpose; and Patrick Atagi, NIHC President & CEO.

Despite Congress navigating a government shutdown, Committee staff emphasized that work continues on Farm Bill priorities, and that hemp remains a top issue for Chairman GT Thompson. There was strong interest in both Fit-for-Purpose and NIHC Verify™.

NIHC remains committed to working with Congress, USDA, the White House, and our partners to ensure hemp’s rightful place in U.S. agriculture policy.

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Stay current with NIHC’s activity to promote Industrial Hemp: Follow us on LinkedIn.

NIHC Global Industrial Hemp Fiber Summit, July 15-17, 2025, Raleigh, NC

SUNDAY IS EARLY BIRD DEADLINE FOR NIHC GLOBAL HEMP FIBER SUMMIT

CONTACT: GlobalHempFiber@ncsu.edu

EARLY BIRD DEADLINE APPROACHING FOR GLOBAL HEMP FIBER SUMMIT

Speakers from Industry and Academia to Lead Key Sessions on Hemp Fiber Innovation

[WASHINGTON DC, June 13, 2025] — The NIHC Global Industrial Hemp Fiber Summit on July 15–17, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina, will bring together industry leaders, researchers and entrepreneurs to explore the future of hemp fiber across the textile and industrial sectors. 

Early bird registration ends June 15, so those interested in attending are encouraged to register now at https://globalhempfiber.textiles.ncsu.edu.

Hosted by NC State University’s Wilson College of Textiles and presented by the National Industrial Hemp Council (NIHC), with support from The NSF Textile Engine, the summit will feature speakers across five key sessions:

Agriculture

  • Patrick Brown – Brown Family Farms
  • Steve Groff – Cedar Meadow Farm
  • Terry Moran – Kanda Hemp
  • Melissa Nelson – Performance Crop Research, LLC / South Bend Industrial Hemp
  • Dr. Larry Smart – Cornell University
  • Dr. David Suchoff – NC State University

Processing

  • David Camby – Biophil Natural Fibers, LLC
  • David Culp – Laroche Nonwovens Division, ANDRITZ
  • Jason Finnis – Bast Fibre Technologies Inc.
  • Satish Hodage – YUJ Labs LLC
  • Naiden Kremenliev – Argonne Fiber LLC
  • John Lupien – Consolidated Carbon
  • Sandra Marquardt – On the Mark Consulting
  • John Peterson – Dakota Hemp
  • Siyan Wang – NC State University (PhD Student)

Textiles

  • Guy Carpenter – Bear Fiber, Inc.
  • Dave Cook – Tuscarora Mills
  • Arlo Estill – Hempsmith Clothing
  • Dr. Raoul Farer – Wilson College of Textiles / Nonwovens Institute
  • Ding Hongliang – Hemp Fortex Industries Ltd
  • Maciej Kowalski – Kombinat Konopny
  • Dr. Andre West – NC State University
  • Jerry Zhao – Tongda Group

Composites & Building Materials

  • Dr. Sang-Hyon Chu – NASA Langley Research Center
  • Dr. Katie Copenhaver – Oak Ridge National Laboratory
  • Sergiy Kovalenkov – Hempire Holdings
  • Matthew Mead – Hempitecture
  • Dr. Lokendra Pal – NC State University
  • Dr. Trey Riddle – IND HEMP
  • Dr. Daniel Walczyk – Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Industry Value Chain

  • Joseph Carringer – Canna Markets Group / HempToday
  • Mark D’Sa – Panda Biotech
  • Gabriella Fioravanti – Thomas Jefferson University
  • Olaf Isele – Trace Femcare, Inc.
  • Lawrence Serbin – Hemp Traders / Pure Fiber Innovations
  • Erica Stark – National Hemp Association

Presenting Sponsors

  • Patrick Atagi – National Industrial Hemp Council
  • Anne Wiper – NSF Textile Innovation Engine

In addition to expert panels, attendees will tour local field trials, see equipment demonstrations at processing and production facilities and engage directly with stakeholders shaping the global hemp fiber industry. 

Register by June 15 to receive the early bird rate and secure your spot at this pivotal industry event.

For full agenda details and registration, visit:
👉 https://globalhempfiber.textiles.ncsu.edu

Summit Sponsors Include:

NIHC (Presenting Sponsor)
Wilson College of Textiles, NC State University (Host Sponsor)
USDA (Funding Partner)
NSF Textile Engine (Supporting Sponsor)
Bear Fiber
BioPhil Natural Fibers

 

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Fit For Purpose

“Fit for Purpose” Policy Proposal for 2025 Farm Bill

NIHC Advances Groundbreaking “Fit for Purpose” Policy Proposal for 2025 Farm Bill: Invites Industry Feedback

Download NIHC’s FPP Framework (PDF-191k)

WASHINGTON, May 16, 2025 – NIHC today released a comprehensive framework designed to shape the future of Industrial hemp regulation in the United States. This groundbreaking “Fit for Purpose” (FFP) policy proposal, developed over the past four years by the NIHC Policy Committee, seeks to address the diverse and evolving needs of the industrial hemp industry as Congress works on the next Farm Bill.

“The release of the Fit for Purpose proposal marks an exciting step forward for the hemp industry,” said NIHC President &CEO Patrick Atagi. “Fit for Purpose provides a clear action plan for hemp based on what is grown and its purpose and is a testament to the vision and dedication of our Policy Committee and the broader hemp community. It is important that we speak with one voice as we continue to work with policymakers to shape a future where the hemp industry can truly thrive.”

Unlike previous Farm Bill legislation that focused primarily on a one-size-fits-all regulatory approach centered on cannabinoid production, the FFP framework recognizes the full scope of the hemp industry’s growth and diversification. Hemp is no longer just a crop for CBD production; hemp now spans multiple industries, including fiber & textiles, grain, construction materials, food products and innovative applications like bioplastics and battery components.

“We are at a pivotal moment in hemp industry history, and the Fit for Purpose framework is a crucial step in ensuring the industry continues to thrive and expand,” said Tim McCarthy, NIHC senior advisor and Policy Committee Chair. “This proposal provides tailored solutions that support the diverse needs of hemp farmers and manufacturers, while fostering clear, fair and effective regulations at both the state and federal levels.”

Key Highlights of the FFP Framework

  • Post-Harvest Testing: Allows farmers additional time to harvest and prepare crops before testing, increasing accuracy and reducing compliance risks.
  • Performance-Based Sampling: Introduces statistical sampling methods to ensure regulatory integrity and flexibility in testing.
  • Specialized Licensing Categories: Nine distinct license types to address the various uses of hemp, including fiber, grain, biomass, and flower production.
  • Certification System: Establishes clear documentation for hemp grown according to specific license requirements, without burdening farmers with final product regulation.

“These elements are vital to today’s industrial hemp industry,” said McCarthy. “Hemp is grown for diverse purposes—such as woven and nonwoven textiles, building materials, plastics, protein, Omega 3 rich seed oil—and none of these involve cannabinoids. But one single testing standard for all end uses could result in unintended consequences, such as the destruction of entire fields and devastate a farmer’s crop meant for textiles, insulation panels, bioplastics or healthy food sources. This is why post-harvest testing based on the intended license and market is so important.”

The proposal also includes critical policy improvements aimed at addressing gaps in current hemp regulation:

  • Increased THC Threshold: Adopting the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA)-recommended 1% THC threshold for harvest compliance, providing clarity for farmers.
  • Expanded Testing Capacity: Adding USDA and EPA-certified labs to eligible testing facilities, reducing costs and bottlenecks.
  • Reduced Barriers to Entry: Eliminating background checks that have disproportionately excluded minorities and underserved communities from hemp cultivation.
  • Food and Supplement Classification: Proposes classifying hemp products under FDA frameworks to stabilize the market.
  • Pet Feed Authorization: Expands the use of hemp seed and byproducts as ingredients in pet and animal feeds.

This policy proposal is the result of extensive collaboration within the hemp industry, including contributions from policy experts, farmers, breeders, and manufacturers. The NIHC Policy Committee extends a special thank you to Rick Fox, Chris Fontes, Josh Schneider, Hunter Buffington, and Marty Clemons for their dedication and expertise in developing this groundbreaking package.

Call for Industry Feedback

As part of its commitment to inclusivity and collaboration, NIHC is seeking reactions and comments from the hemp industry on the Fit for Purpose proposal. This is a critical opportunity for industry stakeholders to provide input and ensure the regulatory framework reflects the diverse needs of all sectors within the hemp industry.

“We believe the Fit for Purpose approach will help us navigate the future of industrial hemp, but we need to hear from you,” said McCarthy. “Your feedback will be essential in refining this proposal to ensure it supports the continued growth and success of the U.S. hemp industry.”

How to Get Involved

The NIHC invites all industry members, including farmers, producers, investors and stakeholders, to provide feedback by June 30 directly to FitForPurpose@hempindustrial.com.

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About NIHC

The National Industrial Hemp Council (NIHC) is the leading advocacy organization for the industrial hemp industry, dedicated to promoting the growth and development of hemp as a sustainable agricultural resource. NIHC works to advance the interests of hemp stakeholders at the federal, state and international levels through advocacy, education and collaboration.

Contact: info@hempindustrial.com

USDA 2024 National Hemp Report

National Industrial Hemp Council Celebrates Continued Growth in the Industrial Hemp Industry

WASHINGTON, April 29, 2025 – A new USDA National Hemp Report shows a 40% increase in the value of industrial hemp production, which now totals $445 million for 2024.

“The growth we are seeing in the industrial hemp sector is a clear indication of its expanding role in the U.S. economy,” said NIHC President & CEO Patrick Atagi. “We’re seeing remarkable strides in hemp production across all sectors—floral, grain, fiber and seed—and are excited for what the future holds as more innovations come to the forefront. With sustained interest and new market opportunities, we believe the hemp industry will continue to thrive and create jobs, while contributing to sustainable solutions for various industries.”

Key highlights from the USDA’s National Hemp Report for 2024 include:

  • Overall value of hemp production: $445 million, up 40% from 2023.
  • Floral hemp: A dramatic 159% increase in production, with 20.8 million pounds of floral hemp produced.
  • Fiber hemp: Continued expansion, with 60.4 million pounds harvested, representing a 23% increase.
  • Seed hemp: Exceptional growth, with the value of seed production increasing by 482%, reaching $16.9 million.
  • Area harvested for fiber: 18,855 acres, up 56% from 2023, showing strong demand for sustainable materials.

These findings underscore the growing adoption of hemp as a versatile and sustainable resource, with expanding applications in textiles, construction, and bio-plastics.

“We are at a critical juncture, where industry leaders, farmers and innovators are coming together to unlock the full potential of hemp,” Atagi added. “As the market for hemp in industrial products continues to evolve, NIHC remains committed to supporting this growth through policy advocacy, education, and global trade efforts.”

The NIHC looks forward to building on this momentum and working with stakeholders across the hemp supply chain to strengthen the industry and ensure its sustainable future.

NIHC Global Industrial Hemp Fiber Summit, July 15-17, 2025, Raleigh, NC

Global Hemp Fiber Leaders to Convene in Raleigh for Groundbreaking Industry Summit

2025 NIHC Global Industrial Hemp Fiber Summit will explore innovation, supply chain development, and market opportunities for hemp fiber.

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 25, 2025 – As the global demand for sustainable materials accelerates, the 2025 NIHC Global Industrial Hemp Fiber Summit will bring together industry leaders, researchers and innovators to explore the future of hemp fiber. Hosted by NC State University’s Wilson College of Textiles and presented by the National Industrial Hemp Council (NIHC), with support from The NSF Textile Engine the summit will take place July 15–17, 2025, in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Attendees will gain firsthand insights into the latest developments in fiber genetics, cultivation, mechanical processing and advanced manufacturing. From in-depth discussions to field demonstrations, the Summit will highlight how industrial hemp is transforming supply chains in textiles, construction, automotive components, and beyond.

“This summit is designed to deliver actionable knowledge and foster collaboration across the entire hemp fiber value chain—from seed to finished product,” said Patrick Atagi, NIHC President & CEO. “Attendees will leave with new tools, connections and strategies to move their businesses and the industry forward.”

“We’re genuinely excited to champion the research and development of hemp textiles right here in the United States,” said Dr. Andre West, Professor and Director of Zeis Textiles Extension at NC State University. “Investing in hemp is a win-win for our economy and our environment—it’s a sustainable crop that empowers American farmers, reduces our reliance on imports, and paves the way for a cleaner, more resilient textile industry.”

Anne Wiper, CEO of The Textile Engine said, “At the Textile Engine, we know that scaling opportunities like textile hemp fiber takes teamwork and bold brand leadership. We’re excited to support and sponsor the Global Industrial Hemp Fiber Summit. We are working to connect the supply chain from farm to fiber to finished products. With new investment in processing equipment and fiber processing chemistry, there is great potential for textile hemp. The future is in our hands—and together, we can build a stronger, more sustainable textile industry.”

Attendees will:

  • Hear from top U.S. and international experts about cutting-edge research, emerging technologies and proven practices in fiber hemp;
  • Engage in strategic discussions that address critical challenges, including business development, financial challenges and market-building opportunities;
  • Tour local field trials, equipment and processing facilities to see innovations in action; and
  • Network with producers, equipment manufacturers, researchers and brands leading hemp’s next chapter.

 

Registration is now open at https://globalhempfiber.textiles.ncsu.edu where you can see the preliminary agenda and speakers. Speaker announcements and a detailed agenda will be updated in the coming weeks.

Summit Sponsors Include:

National Industrial Hemp Council (NIHC) – Presenting Sponsor

Wilson College of Textiles, NC State University – Host Sponsor

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) – Funding Partner

The NSF Textile Engine – Supporting Sponsor

Bear Fiber

BioPhil Natural Fibers

 

For more information or questions, contact the organizing team at GlobalHempFiber@ncsu.edu

 

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Tim McCarthy
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National Industrial Hemp Council Welcomes Tim McCarthy as Senior Advisor

Washington, DC – The National Industrial Hemp Council (NiHC) is proud to announce the appointment of Tim McCarthy as Senior Advisor, effective February 27, 2025. In addition to this new role, Tim will continue to serve as Policy Chair, a position he has held since July 2023, guiding the organization’s efforts to shape hemp policy and regulations.

With a robust background spanning pharmaceutical sales, robotic medical devices, and hemp industry innovation, Tim brings a wealth of expertise to NiHC. A graduate of North Carolina State University with degrees in Economics and Business Management, he has spent the last decade navigating FDA compliance and driving business development. Since 2019, as Vice President of Sales and Marketing at United Natural Hemp Extracts, Tim has spearheaded strategies to expand the reach of hemp extracts while ensuring adherence to DEA, FDA, and USDA regulations. His global advocacy includes representing NiHC at the Asian International Hemp Expo (2022, 2023), the European Industrial Hemp Association conference (2024), and the Tokyo International Hemp Conference (2024).

“Tim’s deep industry knowledge and proven leadership make him an invaluable asset as we advance the hemp agenda,” said President and CEO, Patrick Atagi. In his dual roles, Tim will continue to educate policymakers and champion standards that foster sustainable growth in the industrial hemp sector.

NIHC Sends Letters Proposing Webinar with Regulators on Animal Feed

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Industrial Hemp Council of America yesterday sent separate letters to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Veterinary Medicine (FDA-CVM) making the case that sufficient research currently exists to include hemp as a safe ingredient in U.S. agriculture’s animal feed supply chain and proposing a webinar with regulators to discuss removing barriers for using hemp as animal feed.

Recently, a coalition of animal feed and nutrition groups and veterinarians led by AAFCO asked states to stop passing laws allowing hemp in animal feed without ample scientific research to support its use. Additionally, FDA-CVM has requested that only studies using American grown and American processed hemp be included. This parameter negates decades of safety research that has been conducted.

“We believe that there is a clear solution and path forward to the approval of hemp feed through the utilization of existing research and the establishment of appropriate agency barriers,” said Hunter Buffington, a member of NIHC’s Government Affairs Committee. “It is incredibly disappointing that some choose to create confusion over feed ingredients versus animal supplements at the expense of American ranchers and farmers who need a safe, affordable and nutritious supply of animal feed that hempseed provides.”

NIHC offered five clarifications and solutions for allowing hemp-based animal feed to gain federal approval.

  1. Hemp seed is not used to produce cannabinoids and should not be connected to the regulatory standards of CBD.
  2. FDA-CVM should establish reasonable and repeatable action limits for cannabinoids in seed products.
  3. FDA-CVM should prioritize AAFCO ingredient approvals and create an expedited process for feed ingredients that relies on already existing research, even if conducted outside of the U.S. or before the 2014 Farm bill allowed hemp to be cultivated for research in the U.S.
  4. Regulatory agencies should work together to identify ways to expedite validation and approval of already developed analytical methods to quantify cannabinoids in seed and seed by-products for feed ingredients and to test the transference of cannabinoids into animal by-products intended for human consumption.
  5. The hemp industry, led by the NIHC, requests to host a webinar with the regulatory agencies, USDA, AAFCO, and FDA-CVM, where researchers can provide education on safety and cannabinoid transference address gaps in method validation, and discuss pathways to expedite approval of hemp as animal feed.

“At a time when the global supply chain has been so severely disrupted, hemp as a commodity can be an answer,” concluded Buffington. “There is no reason homegrown hemp can’t support the American livestock industry.”

You may download the letter to AAFCO here.  The same letter was sent separately to FDA-CVM.

About NIHC

The National Industrial Hemp Council of America provides high-quality networking and resources for its members, from farm to consumer. Its leadership is composed of leading international, federal, state, private industry, and government professionals throughout the sector. The organization is dedicated to furthering market development, assisting members in entering the industry, and educating consumers on industrial hemp and its applications.

 
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The North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services division for the Plant Industry includes hemp. This page explains the regulations for hemp in North Carolina and how to add your hemp business to the state registry.
The Textile Exchange's purpose is to build a global fiber and materials production model that positively impacts our planet.
The US Hemp Building Association advocates for hemp building professionals, projects, and materials in the United States. They work to establish and stabilize a thriving American hemp building industry.
 
PreviousNext
The North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services division for the Plant Industry includes hemp. This page explains the regulations for hemp in North Carolina and how to add your hemp business to the state registry.
The Textile Exchange's purpose is to build a global fiber and materials production model that positively impacts our planet.
The US Hemp Building Association advocates for hemp building professionals, projects, and materials in the United States. They work to establish and stabilize a thriving American hemp building industry.

Stay up to date with the latest NIHC news.

Contact Us

National Industrial Hemp Council
1775 I (Eye) Street NW, Suite 1150
Washington, DC 20006
202-919-3750
Info@HempIndustrial.com

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