USDA launches $2.2 Billion grant program to address farm subsidies discrimination

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is launching a $2.2 billion grant program to address discrimination in how farm subsidies were given out before 2021.

Kendrick Ransome, a farmer and CEO of Golden Organic Farm in Edgecombe County, says that historically, the USDA has discriminated against minorities in giving farmers of color less economic support.

"Historically, it's been very challenging to be a Black farmer," Ransome said.

Ransome runs a farming incubator, helping beginners learn the skills to get started in agriculture.

He says there's a need for more Black farmers in this country.

Experts tell WRAL News that only about 45,000 farmers in the U.S. identify as Black, making up just over 1% of the industry.

Ransome said a lack of USDA support left many Black farmers unable to afford to keep their land over the years.

"We're just being totally dominated. And it's time for some change," Ransome said.

The new grant program could help to level the playing field for minority farmers. Each farmer can get up to $500,000 under the plan.

"It would definitely be able to help a lot of the older farmers," Ransome said.

The program is specifically for farmers, ranchers and forest landowners who experienced discrimination by the USDA's farm lending program.

Ransome says after decades of discrimination, it'll take time for minority farmers to trust the USDA, but he hopes this grant could empower a new wave of Black farmers to be successful.

"I think that would give our younger generation something to look forward to, and maybe more hope that comes along with this," Ransome said.

Farmers have until October to apply for the grant. The application and eligibility requirements can be found on the Discrimination Financial Assistance program website.