WH Farms Co., led by entrepreneur Q. Nicole Vanderhorst, has announced its evolution into a science-driven hemp biotech company, marking a significant expansion that advances both business growth and representation in agriculture and biotechnology. The company is acquiring a 13,000-square-foot facility in Winston-Salem as part of 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 transformation represents more than business expansion—it demonstrates generational resilience and significant economic investment. "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. "Today, WH Farms Co. is transforming that legacy into a hemp biotech company serving the world."
The company's shift comes at a critical time when Black ownership in agriculture has declined significantly and Black women remain underrepresented in biotech and large-scale agricultural manufacturing. Through strategic growth, workforce development, and ongoing investment in research and infrastructure, WH Farms Co. aims to strengthen domestic hemp cultivation, advance science-backed botanical solutions, expand manufacturing capabilities, create sustainable job opportunities, and build long-term generational wealth.
Rooted in a commitment to premium, transparently sourced hemp products, WH Farms Co. distinguished itself through quality cultivation, USDA-licensed manufacturing, and rigorous analysis standards. As the industry matured, the company's vision expanded to the intersection of agriculture, science, and economic empowerment. The company will now focus on advanced botanical extraction, research-driven product development, and scalable innovation in the growing hemp sector.
This evolution demonstrates 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, positioning the company as both a manufacturer of hemp products and a contributor to the broader biotech landscape. As global demand for plant-based wellness and sustainable agricultural innovation grows, the company is prepared to lead with credibility, transparency, and purpose.
The company's story represents evolution from land to laboratory and from heritage to high-impact innovation. For more information about their transformation and products, visit https://www.whfarms.co.
