Since the passage of the 2014 Farm Bill, the National Hemp Association (NHA) has been at the forefront of advocating for the growth and success of the U.S. hemp industry. Over the past decade, we have worked tirelessly to navigate regulatory challenges, support policy advancements, and champion the interests of our members. Now, as the industry evolves, the NHA board of directors has made a pivotal decision to refine our mission and maximize our impact.
A Renewed Focus on Fiber and Grain
Effective March 1, 2025, NHA will focus exclusively on advocating for the hemp fiber and grain sectors—areas that are critical to the future of American agriculture but remain underdeveloped due to regulatory barriers and supply chain challenges. This shift will allow us to dedicate our resources to advancing policies, securing investment, and ensuring that hemp fiber and grain reach their full potential in U.S. markets.
“This shift is a crucial step toward unlocking the full potential of hemp as an agricultural commodity while revitalizing rural economies and expanding domestic manufacturing opportunities,” said Morgan Tweet, NHA Board Member and CEO of IND HEMP.
The demand for hemp fiber and grain is growing across industries, from construction materials and textiles to automotive components and animal feed. By sharpening our focus, we can help build a robust supply chain that reduces reliance on imports and creates new opportunities for American farmers and businesses.
Clarifying the Role of Industrial Hemp
One of the key challenges facing the hemp industry is the continued confusion between industrial hemp and cannabinoid (CBD/flower) production, as well as its association with marijuana. This lack of regulatory distinction has hindered agricultural progress and limited political and market support for fiber and grain development.
NHA has long been a leader in advocating for industrial hemp, playing a crucial role in advancing the Industrial Hemp Act of 2023, which is now included in current Farm Bill drafts. This legislation would establish clear regulatory differentiation between industrial hemp and cannabinoid hemp, paving the way for greater growth and investment in fiber and grain production.
A Fresh Look for a New Chapter
To align with our renewed mission, we’ve also refreshed our logo and website to better reflect our dedication to fiber and grain advocacy. We invite you to explore our updated site and see how we’re shaping the future of the industrial hemp industry.
Supporting Our Members Through the Transition
While our focus is shifting, our commitment to supporting the entire hemp industry remains. We are deeply grateful to our past and present members in the cannabinoid sector and appreciate their contributions to hemp’s reemergence in the U.S. This transition will allow us to better serve all members by concentrating on the areas where advocacy and policy development are most needed.
Other organizations continue to champion cannabinoid hemp, and we look forward to collaborating to ensure that progress in one sector strengthens the entire industry. Our transition plan will ensure continuity for all NHA members, and we will work closely with them throughout this shift.
Join Us in Shaping the Future of Hemp
The future of hemp fiber and grain is bright, and we invite businesses and stakeholders in these sectors to join us. NHA Executive Director Erica Stark is available for a free 30-minute consultation to discuss how our 2025 strategy can best support your business.
Together, we can drive investment, build supply chains, and solidify hemp as a cornerstone of American agriculture and industry.