Black Woman-Owned WH Farms Co. Evolves into Science-Focused Hemp Biotech Company

WH Farms Co., led by entrepreneur Q. Nicole Vanderhorst, has evolved from an agricultural operation into a science-driven hemp biotech company during the transition from Black History Month to Women's History Month. This transformation represents significant business growth while advancing representation in agriculture and biotechnology sectors where Black women remain underrepresented. The company's expansion includes acquiring a 13,000-square-foot facility in Winston-Salem through a $2.9 million investment that will bring formulation and manufacturing in-house while creating 41 new jobs with average wages above $79,000.

Founded on land cleared by freed slaves, WH Farms Co.'s evolution demonstrates generational resilience and economic impact. "Our botanical ingredients are grown on land that was cleared by the hands of freed slaves, which means our heritage is built on strength and survival," said Vanderhorst, Founder and CEO of WH Farms Co. "Today, WH Farms Co. is transforming that legacy into a hemp biotech company serving the world. We are creating jobs, building wealth, and leading an emerging industry with purpose, pride, innovation, and vision." This shift occurs against a backdrop of declining Black ownership in agriculture and underrepresentation in biotech and large-scale agricultural manufacturing.

The company's transformation positions it at the intersection of agriculture, science, and economic empowerment. WH Farms Co. will focus on advanced botanical extraction, research-driven product development, and scalable innovation in the growing hemp sector. This scientific approach builds upon the company's existing foundation of premium, transparently sourced hemp products, USDA-licensed manufacturing, and rigorous analysis standards. Through strategic growth, workforce development, and ongoing investment in research and infrastructure, the company aims to strengthen domestic hemp cultivation, advance science-backed botanical solutions, expand manufacturing capabilities, create sustainable job opportunities, and build long-term generational wealth.

This evolution represents a forward-thinking approach to hemp that prioritizes compliance, scientific rigor, and global scalability while maintaining strong ties to community and culture. For WH Farms Co., innovation is driven by identity as the company moves from land to laboratory and from heritage to high-impact innovation. As global demand for plant-based wellness and sustainable agricultural innovation grows, WH Farms Co. is prepared to lead with credibility, transparency, and purpose. The company's next chapter positions it as both a manufacturer of hemp products and a contributor to the broader biotech landscape, shaping how hemp is cultivated, processed, researched, and integrated into emerging industries. For more information, visit https://www.whfarms.co.