NC S313

Establishes the Small Farmers Support Grant Program within the NC Department of Agriculture to provide grants for essential inputs, equipment, and operational improvements to farming operations

Defines eligible individuals as NC residents aged 21+, with gross cash farm income of $1,000,000 or less, and at least $1,000 in annual farming income from the preceding year

Appropriates $15,000,000 in recurring funds for fiscal year 2025-2026 from the General Fund to the Small Farmer Grant Fund

Authorizes the Commissioner to prioritize grants based on farm size, income levels, economic hardship, and lack of access to capital, with tiered maximum grant amounts based on demonstrated need

Creates an advisory committee to monitor program effectiveness and allows up to 1% of funds for administrative costs; effective July 1, 2025