Colorado Cannabis Leaders Launch Statewide Coalition Amid Industry Crisis
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Elias Egozi | 305-972-1853 | elias@egoziventures.com
Colorado Cannabis Leaders Launch Statewide Coalition Amid Industry Crisis
New group demands reform, ethical standards, and self-accountability to save Colorado’s pioneering cannabis market
Denver, CO – April 23, 2025 — As Colorado’s cannabis industry teeters on the brink of collapse, a growing coalition of cannabis entrepreneurs and stakeholders is organizing to take action. With market instability, regulatory strain, and unethical business practices on the rise, the newly formed group is calling on operators, vendors, and advocates across the state to unify and take control of the industry’s future.
The coalition’s founding goal is to safeguard the long-term viability of Colorado’s cannabis market by:
● Advocating for smarter, more sustainable regulations
● Promoting ethical and transparent business practices
● Building a culture of self-accountability from within
“Operators across the state are being squeezed—by tighter regulations, declining margins, and instability,” said Elias Egozi, owner of the Egozi Wholesale Brand, a Denver-based solventless concentrate and flower brand. “We’ve also seen a troubling rise in unpaid vendors and unethical deals. The time for silence is over—this coalition is about setting a new standard and fighting for the future we all worked to build.”
The coalition will host its next public meeting on May 1, 2025, at 3595 S Jason Street, Denver, CO, where participants will begin the nomination process for a formal board and open discussions on next steps. A board-elected Chair will ultimately serve as the group’s public representative to city and state regulators.
“This industry has given me incredible opportunities—but it’s painful to see how many of us have little to show for years of sacrifice,” said Jacob Grayson, operator and partner at Krystaleaves Dispensary. “We’re not giving up. We’re using our networks and experience to solve problems from the inside. Real change starts with us, and self-accountability is the first step to sustainability.”
Founded by Egozi and Grayson, the coalition represents a diverse group of cannabis professionals determined to bring leadership, transparency, and structure to an industry in crisis. Organizers are urging all licensed operators, vendors, and advocates to attend, get involved, and share the invitation across the industry.
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About the Colorado Cannabis Industry Coalition
The Colorado Cannabis Industry Coalition is a grassroots alliance of cannabis business owners, operators, and stakeholders united by a shared commitment to restoring integrity, accountability, and sustainability to the state’s cannabis sector. Formed in 2025 in response to growing instability and regulatory pressure, the coalition seeks to represent the voice of the industry from the inside out—prioritizing ethical leadership, cooperative problem-solving, and meaningful reform to secure the future of Colorado cannabis.
S2S Insurance Specialists Releases Insuring Cannabis 2022/2023 Report: “Year-End Trends & Analysis – How Cannabis Businesses Should Prepare for 2023”
BOCA RATON, FL.; December 6, 2022 – S2S Insurance Specialists, an independent insurance broker focused exclusively on providing seed-to-sale insurance coverages for cannabis and ancillary businesses nationwide, released its Insuring Cannabis 2022/2023 Report: “2022 Year-End Cannabis Insurance Trends & Analysis – How Cannabis Businesses Should Prepare for 2023.” The report includes the top five (5) trends that are impacting what policies cannabis businesses will need next year – no matter their size – to protect their companies, products, C-suite, and investments.
“As the cannabis industry continues to grow and enter the mainstream with recreational, adult-use marijuana now legal in nearly half of all U.S. states, we expect to see some significant changes impacting the industry in 2023,” said Eric Rahn, Managing Director. “The industry outlook remains positive, but there are several important trends we are seeing that will impact the insurance coverages cannabis businesses need to ensure they are full protected against the top risks they could face in the imminent future.”
For example, the industry continued to see a spike in litigation spanning all sectors in 2022, particularly as it relates to investor suits, trademark violation claims, and employment practices/contract disputes. In addition, the cannabis industry should brace itself for a surge in product liability lawsuits and consumer class actions in 2023, as the market matures, and new studies emerge on the health and safety of high-THC products. Following each of the top five trends, S2S Insurance Specialists’ Analysis details specific insurances that will be important for cannabis businesses in 2023, including Product Liability, Directors & Officers (D&O) Liability, IP Enforcement/Defense, and Employers Protection Liability (EPLI), to name a few.
To access the report, click here. If you have questions regarding cannabis insurance coverages or would like a detailed risk assessment and analysis, please contact Eric Rahn for a consultation at (954) 790-6604 or email eric@s2sinsure.com.
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About S2S Insurance Specialists
S2S Insurance Specialists is an international insurance intermediary and brokerage firm focused specifically on the difficult-to-insure businesses operating in the medical and recreational CBD/Hemp, Cannabis/THC and Psychedelic Medicinal industries.
With over 30 years of experience and deep knowledge of each state’s specific cannabis and psychedelic medicinal laws, in addition to being backed by the support of our underwriters both domestic and foreign, S2S Insurance Specialists can make insurance coverage both cost effective and tailored to your specific needs.
S2S Insurance Specialists is a division of Rahn & Associates, a Bespoke Insurance Broker that provides specialty lines of insurance products and services for highly regulated and complex industries. For more information, visit https://www.s2sinsure.com/.
Cognitive Harmony Technologies Announces over $1 Million in Sponsored Services for 35 New Jersey Aspiring Cannabis Business Owners
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Alex Rush
arush@rosengrouppr.com
718.664.3517
Cognitive Harmony Technologies Announces over $1 Million in Sponsored Services for 35 New Jersey Aspiring Cannabis Business Owners
Sponsees will receive free access to CHT’s software, live support and referral network to complete a successful cannabis business license application
Submissions to receive complimentary CHT services now open at https://cognitiveharmony.tech/sponsorship/
Chicago, Ill.– September 19, 2022 – Cognitive Harmony Technologies (CHT), a company designed to streamline the cannabis business license application process, today announced plans to sponsor up to 35 prospective cannabis business license applicants from underrepresented communities in the state of New Jersey as part of their CHT Accelerator Sponsorship Program. CHT will provide each selected applicant with a development and consultation package worth $30K (a total of $1 million worth of resources), including their game-changing platform – the CHT Accelerator – at no cost, furthering their mission to make the industry more accessible to small businesses and communities impacted by the war on drugs.
“CHT was created to empower applicants who are typically discounted from the complex and convoluted business licensing process due to their lack of resources, investment capital or ability to afford a hundred-thousand-dollar consulting firm,” said CHT Co-founder and CEO Walter Moore, a software engineer who also co-founded the cannabis social equity incubator Perception Farms. “We want small business owners, scrappy start-ups and equity applicants who are passionate about the cannabis industry to thrive and avoid potential roadblocks, including a lack of capital. We’re excited to help our sponsored applicants pave their path of success, and open the door for a more equitable cannabis industry in New Jersey and beyond.”
The criteria for CHT sponsorships include that applicants must be starting a retail cannabis dispensary in New Jersey, and share CHT’s values of cannabis culture, the entrepreneurial spirit, and accessibility for all. Priority will be given to those who demonstrate a rock-solid work ethic and determination to see the application through to submission.
Selected applicants, who will be announced December 1st 2022, will be inducted into CHT’s 8-week cohort and receive access to CHT’s full suite of software and services to compete effectively for a cannabis business license and build their company and brand, including:
- The proprietary CHT Accelerator, which offers a master checklist and automates redundant processes, enabling applicants to submit without common mistakes like missing materials
- CHT’s full network of referrals, including ancillary businesses across the supply chain
- End-to-end application development and project management
- Consulting throughout the entire application process
“The CHT team has been in your shoes, walking this path ourselves, from license applicant to retail, cultivation, and manufacturing operations,” said Chief Business Development Officer and CFO Charles Cherqui, a physicist who co-founded CHT with Moore after running into his own set of obstacles applying for a cannabis business license. “We want to share what we’ve learned and make the industry more accessible to passionate small business owners and up-and-coming entrepreneurs so the market isn’t saturated with large corporations and MSOs.”
For more information on Cognitive Harmony Technologies and to begin the application process, visit https://cognitiveharmony.tech/sponsorship/
About Cognitive Harmony Technologies
CHT’s mission is to create $1 Billion in wealth for underrepresented communities through cannabis business ownership. We are a group of cannabis and small business entrepreneurs fighting to create an equitable industry through emerging technologies. Our commitment to changing the face of the industry stems from our personal experiences as legacy operators and the love of cannabis culture. Follow us on LinkedIn or visit our website.
Webinar: Outsourced Accounting Services for Dispensaries
Everything Cannabis Operators Need to Know About Outsourcing
Presented by Bridge West CPAs & Advisors to the Cannabis Industry
Wednesday, September 21, 2022 at 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm Mountain Time
REGISTER NOW
As your cannabis organization grows and evolves, you need flexible accounting services that evolve with you, keep you at the forefront of industry changes, and ahead of challenges. Outsourced accounting services may be the right fit for your organization and help take your processes to the next level. In this informative webinar, our industry experts will present everything that cannabis operators need to know about outsourced accounting services.
Key take-aways attendees will learn from our industry experts:
- Determine if outsourced accounting services would benefit your dispensary.
- Learn about the benefits of outsourcing for cannabis dispensaries.
- Understand the assessment process for cannabis businesses.
- Learn about the team members and processes necessary to operate a top accounting department.
- Discover what technology resources are available, which are cannabis-friendly, and which are recommended.
- Hear real-world outsourcing accounting examples, best practices, and learn how successful operators address industry challenges.
- Attendees can submit questions during the registration process, and during the live webinar.
Speakers:
Peter Prevot, CPA, CIA – Chief Operating Officer of Bridge West Consulting: Peter dedicated his career to the cannabis industry in 2014. Peter helps cannabis clients increase profitability, retain more of the bottom line for business growth, and comply with laws and regulations as operations expand. His core professional competencies include regulatory analysis, license procurement, management consulting, corporate governance, strategy, accounting information systems, banking regulations, governmental relations, and internal controls. Peter previously held board positions with the Louisiana Cannabis Association and the Pointe Coupee Enrichment Fund. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Upbeat Academy Foundation and the Veterans Alliance for Holistic Alternatives. Peter is also the Founder and Executive Director of the Louisiana Association for Therapeutic Alternatives.
Aaron Stolz, CPA – Senior Accountant with Bridge West CPAs & Advisors: Aaron has concentrated on the retail cannabis space and focused on cannabis industry issues since 2014. In 2017, he earned a Master of Accountancy degree, and his background includes experience with every aspect of the industry’s administrative needs. Aaron served as an Office Manager, a Cost Accountant, and a CFO prior to joining Bridge West as a Senior Accountant.
Patty Williams, CPA – Outsourced Controller/CFO with Bridge West CPAs & Advisors: Patty Williams is the Outsourced Controller/CFO for Bridge West CPAs. She has been licensed as a Certified Public Accountant since 2014. Patty started working as a fractional CFO and Controller for cannabis clients in 2017. Over the past five years, she has worked with licensed cannabis operators of all sizes to bring an exceptional level of consistency and standardization to the constantly evolving landscape of cannabis finance. Her engagements focus on minimizing the impact of IRS 280E, cash management, cost accounting, financial statement preparation and internal controls over financial reporting.
REGISTER NOW
Background:
Bridge West CPAs & Advisors serves more than 600 cannabis operators nationwide and has specialized in the cannabis industry since 2009.
Bridge West’s Cannabis Accounting Services Group provides cannabis businesses with customized services, whether you’re a startup with limited resources and no accounting and bookkeeping staff, or an established cannabis business with an internal accounting team. For more than a decade, we’ve worked with cannabis cultivators, processors, transporters, dispensaries, management, and intellectual companies.
If you’ve reached the point where it would be beneficial to have an in-house accounting staff, we can seamlessly transfer the day-to-day responsibilities to your team and provide more advanced Controller or CFO consulting services. Based on our in-depth knowledge of the cannabis industry, our Cannabis Accounting Services Group guides cannabis organizations through accounting issues and industry challenges. We have developed standard chart of accounts, methods to minimize 280E, properly account for inventory, and develop Key Performance Indicators. Our experienced team of professionals has the expertise and resources to meet your specific needs.
WEBINAR – Cannabis Considerations: Federal and State Planning
From legislative updates to complex tax planning, you face many unique challenges as a business owner in the ever-changing cannabis industry. At Rehmann, we specialize in these specific issues and we’re dedicated to helping provide expertise and insight to help your cannabis operation grow and thrive.
We invite you to join our panel of experienced advisors at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21 for an engaging conversation providing industry insight and strategic planning opportunities.
Key Takeaways:
- How the upcoming election and proposals impact the cannabis industry
- Key considerations in operational structuring
- IRC 280E
- an overview how to capitalize and navigate requirements
- an overview of Michigan Income Tax
- Michigan Excise Tax: an overview and review of tax basis
When:
Wednesday, Sept. 21 from 2 – 3 p.m. EDT
Register today: https://go.rehmann.com/l/913821/2022-08-23/nqf2g
You’re invited to participate in Rehmann’s MI Cannabis CFO Outlook Survey
Cannabis industry business owners face unique challenges. At Rehmann, our goal is to provide expertise and insights to help you navigate these challenges so your cannabis business can grow and thrive.
This July, Rehmann is conducting a survey of licensed Michigan cannabis organizations and we invite you to participate! Survey data will help us create the Cannabis CFO Outlook Report – findings that will serve as an industry benchmark to assist all cannabis businesses throughout the state. As a participant in the survey, you will receive a copy of this report, which will share survey results and analytics, as well as valuable resources to help your business succeed in today’s competitive market.
If you don’t already work with Rehmann, but you want to be included in this opportunity, please fill out the short contact form via the link below and we will add you to our contact list.
Link: https://go.rehmann.com/2022CannabisCFOOutlook
Questions? Contact Ashley Pearson at Ashley.pearson@rehmann.com.
Cova Software Announces Free Social Equity Seminar on How to Open a Dispensary in New Jersey and New York
Cova will lead the in-person seminar to encourage and support social equity license applicants preparing to launch cannabis dispensaries in New Jersey or New York
FORT LEE, N.J., May 31, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cova Software, an award-winning cannabis Point of Sale (POS) software company powering dispensaries across North America, announced the company is hosting a free seminar for social equity licensee applicants in New Jersey and New York on navigating the process of opening an adult-use cannabis dispensary.
Joining Gary Cohen, CEO of Cova Software, on stage to offer expertise will be Dr. Lucas McCann, Co-Founder of CannDelta, and Naomi Granger, Founder of the National Association of Cannabis Accounting and Tax Professionals. The group will share valuable lessons from years of success helping cannabis entrepreneurs across the country open dispensaries.
Topics covered by the seminar include eligibility criteria and how to get a cannabis retail license, critical compliance tips, operational best practices, key financial considerations, and how to budget for a profitable cannabis business, along with an optional demo of Cova’s user-friendly and compliance-focused dispensary software solutions.
How to Open a Dispensary in New York / New Jersey: Learn the Steps as a Social Equity License Applicant
- Date: June 8, 2022
- Time: 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Hyatt Place Fort Lee/George Washington Bridge, 2167 Rte 4 E, Fort Lee, NJ
Seminar Agenda:
- 9:00-9:30 a.m. Coffee and Mingle
- 9:30-10:15 a.m. Social Equity Program Overview, Eligibility, and Application Process
- 10:15-11:00 a.m. Key Cost Considerations & How to Budget for Running a Dispensary
- 11:15 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. The Basics of Cannabis Retail Compliance in NY/NJ
- 12:30-1:30 p.m. Lunch Break and Networking
- 1:30-2:30 p.m. Best Practices for Running a Cannabis Dispensary
- 2:30-3:30 p.m. Optional Demo of Cova POS
New Jersey and New York have both emphasized the need for equity and inclusion in the cannabis industry from the very beginning by using a priority applications system for licensing. This creates an accessible path to owning a cannabis business for justice-involved individuals with previous cannabis convictions, members of communities disproportionately impacted by the enforcement of cannabis prohibition, minority-owned, women-owned businesses, distressed farmers, and service-disabled veterans.
“Cova applauds New Jersey and New York’s efforts to prioritize the inclusion of communities disproportionately impacted by cannabis prohibition in the industry’s continued success. We hope that more states are inspired to take similar regulatory actions,” said Cohen.
Cova developed the seminar to focus on equipping potential social equity applicants from either state with the knowledge and confidence needed to open and maintain a successful dispensary. Cannabis is a relatively brand new industry with nuanced regulations; guidance from experienced operators could be a competitive advantage in emerging state markets.
“Recognizing that advance access to more affordable licensing is a great start, we wanted to provide more support for the next steps,” said Cohen. “We’re focusing on the insights, education, and financial literacy critical to opening and running a successful business. Giving future dispensary owners the value of educational resources and strategic takeaways proven successful in cannabis increases the longevity of ever-important social equity programs.”
Individuals attending will leave with an improved understanding of obtaining a cannabis business license for social equity businesses and knowledge about successful retail strategies that position stores for long-term success.
For more information on Cova’s current seminar and to stay up-to-date on future upcoming free seminars, visit www.covasoftware.com/events.
About Cova:
Cova builds innovative software solutions specifically for cannabis retail. Its Award-Winning POS & Inventory Management platform simplifies compliance and streamlines complex operations. Cova’s seamless e-commerce and delivery integrations empower retailers to choose best-in-class tech solutions that help build their brand and safeguard customer loyalty. Ease of use, industry-leading support, and enterprise-proven scalability have made Cova the #1 cannabis POS in North America, trusted to power more than 2,000 retail locations.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Trevor Maniscalo
NisonCo PR
trevor@NisonCo.com
(630) 841-1017
Webinar: Dispensaries have become a prime target for armed robberies and burglaries
Dispensaries have become a prime target for armed robberies and burglaries.
But what if there was a way to keep your staff, assets, and cash SAFE, while preventing future attacks? Join industry leaders 3SI Security Systems and Sapphire Risk Advisory Group to learn more about a game-changing technology that can help to minimize risk, improve law enforcement relations, and help to put habitual, violent offenders behind bars.
Robbery Awareness & Prevention the Webinar
for Cannabis Dispensaries, Growers & Transporters
April 28th
2 PM ET
What you’ll learn:
- Why crime is spiking
- How to identify your top security risks
- How dispensary design can minimize crime
- What security technologies offer maximum safety & ROI
- Simple and cost-effective techniques that will reduce your robbery risk
REGISTER FOR THE WEBINAR
Cannabis Robbery Awareness & Prevention Webinar
April 28th, 2PM ET
Exclusively for Cannabis Dispensaries, Growers & Transporters!
3SI Security Systems and Sapphire Risk Advisory Group‘s Tony Gallo will give you valuable information to keep your assets, staff, cash and product safe! Don’t miss this great opportunity to learn about cannabis robbery awareness & prevention.
Cannabis is the fastest growing industry in the US and Canada, with experts projecting its value to surge to over $35 billion by 2023. But as the old adage goes, “more money…more problems.” Dispensaries have become a prime target for armed robberies and burglaries. Cash-based and exposed, retailers have become virtual sitting ducks for bud bandits looking to score high-value products that can be easily fenced. But this webinar can help! You’ll learn:
- Why crime is spiking
- How to identify your top security risks
- How dispensary design can minimize crime
- What security tech offers maximum safety and highest ROI
- Simple techniques to reduce your robbery risk
Eagle Protect Sounds Alarm on Supply Chain Contamination
U.S. glove supplier’s testing and analysis reveals high level of glove contaminants
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. (Feb. 21, 2022) – Eagle Protect, the world’s only B Corp certified disposable glove and PPE supplier, found at least 10 different enterotoxigenic strains of Bacillus cereus contamination on new and unused single-use gloves during its independent testing of 26 different brands. These findings are of note because the Bacillus microbe was found responsible for a recent recall of meat products, triggered by testing from the U.S. Department of Defense.
Eagle Protect’s findings, combined with the meat recall notice, has prompted the company to issue an urgent warning to the food handling industry on the hidden risks of not just chemical but also significant microbial single-use glove contamination in the existing supply chain. It’s estimated that Bacillus cereus is the fifth-leading cause of foodborne illness, with over 60,000 cases each year. Other pathogens identified on gloves that may represent significant public health hazards for glove users or food establishments included Listeria monocytogenes, Clostridoides difficile, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Bacillus anthracis (Anthrax).
“In the case of food recalls, the key concern which needs to be addressed is the source of contamination,” said Steve Ardagh, CEO of Eagle Protect. “At what stage of the food supply chain is the contamination occurring? Since glove factories supplying the U.S. food industry are not subjected to rigorous FDA monitoring or scrutiny, and few controls are required in relation to the reliability and consistency of raw material ingredients, manufacturing processes, cleanliness, and factory compliance, are food companies exposing their supply chain to an increased risk of contamination, outbreaks, and recalls?”
The preliminary testing results of Eagle Protect’s third-party glove analysis also identified a significant number of other foodborne illness pathogens on many of the new and unused gloves tested. The results included numerous Bacillus cereus strains found on gloves containing combinations of virulent cytotoxic and emetic toxins. These and other findings from Eagle’s glove analysis, spanning a four-year period, were previously presented at the 2019 and 2021 International Association of Food Protection (IAFP) conferences, with additional results to be published in the coming months. The scope of the independent testing was conducted on approximately 3,000 glove samples of new and unused FDA food-compliant and medically approved gloves for various factors including pathogen loading.
To date, the results have identified over 250 different microbial species, bonafide fecal indicators, and nearly two-dozen food and cutaneous pathogens, found on both the interior and exterior glove surfaces
The FDA Food Code for disposable gloves (FDA Title 21, Part 177) does not specifically require gloves to be intact, clean, or sanitary, and require no testing upon arrival in the U.S.
“A significant amount of trust is being placed in the hands of manufacturers, the majority of which are based in southeast Asia,” said Ardagh. “But in some cases, our testing has revealed this trust may be misplaced based on the extensive glove analysis results soon to be published.”
A recent recall, due to chemicals transmitted from food safe gloves, is one such case in which the source of contamination was traced back to gloves. It’s a pressing concern for the industry, with negative consequences for both the bottom line and brand reputation, not to mention the health and safety of consumers and glove users. According to a study conducted by GMA, Covington & Burling LLP, and Ernst & Young, the average financial cost of each food recall is over $10 million.
Additional preventive controls are necessary to protect the food supply from glove cross-contamination. This risk to the U.S. food industry can be mitigated if suppliers partner with manufacturers who adhere to consistent, high standards of manufacturing and raw material quality and hygiene practices. Reliable and frequent quality assurance, coupled with routine auditing practices ensure the highest standards of food-safety performance and consistent manufacturing processes. For further information on Eagle Protect and their glove analysis, visit www.eagleprotect.com.
About Eagle Protect
Eagle Protect was founded in 2006 by Steve Ardagh and Lynda Ronaldson, whose purpose has focused on the responsible sourcing of quality products, improving their customers’ food safety and mitigating single-use glove risks. Eagle’s proprietary independent glove analysis tests for cleanliness (microbial and fungal contaminants), chemicals and toxins, durability, and cross-contamination potential, ensuring their gloves adhere to the highest level of food safety performance and quality.
Extract Consultants Gives Back with Donations to Fund Positive Change
Terpenes and flavors company gifts $20,000 to support the groundbreaking and charitable work of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Innocence Project, Cancer Research International and Children International
DENVER, Co. – Jan 5, 2022 – Extract Consultants, a leading provider of flavors and terpenes, today announced donations to four purpose-driven organizations working to create positive change by creating a healthier, more just and equitable society.
Each organization has been gifted with a $5,000 donation to help play a role in furthering their groundbreaking work and critical missions:
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, leading the way in pediatric research and treatment of cancer and other life-threatening diseases.
The Innocence Project, working to exonerate the wrongly convicted through DNA testing and reform the criminal justice system to prevent future injustice.
The Cancer Research Institute, dedicated to the discovery and development of powerful immunotherapies to create a future immune to cancer.
Children International, empowering children and youth to break free from poverty with access to health care, educational resources, and life-changing programs.
“Giving back in support of the greater good has always been a key pillar of our mission,” said Extract Consultants President Maxwell Brown. “This year we are pleased to support four amazing organizations, whose critical work is near and dear to the hearts of our team.”
About Extract Consultants
Extract Consultants is the premier provider of terpenes, flavors and effects blends—with products tailored for an array of industries including, cannabis and hemp, health and wellness, beverage and brewing. With a team of internationally renowned chemists and formulators and facilities that house the most advanced processing equipment in the essential oil and flavor industries, Extract Consultants is dedicated to the continual exploration of terpene and flavor technology. For more information, visit extractconsultants.com. Follow Extract Consultants on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
Contacts
Ben Jenkins
ben@theprohibitionco.com
503-776-0534
“Breaking Ground” Senator Sanders’ Cannabis Workforce Initiative
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***PRESS ADVISORY***
“Breaking Ground”
Senator Sanders’ Cannabis Workforce Initiative
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| Join Senator James Sanders Jr. as we make history!
Senator James Sanders Jr. (D-Queens) in partnership with the Cannabis Hub, is launching the first of its kind cannabis workforce training in the nation for individuals who want to start a business or simply get a job in the emerging cannabis industry coming soon to New York State and made possible by the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA).
The teachers who devised this accredited program are the best and most respected leaders in the cannabis industry, having finetuned their already immense expertise at the Cleveland School of Cannabis.
Students of Senator Sanders’ Breaking Ground initiative will be primarily community members who have been disproportionately impacted by cannabis prohibition. They are going to get a free, world-class education with this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
The “Breaking Ground Press Conference” will take place on Thursday, August 19, 2021 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at The Campaign Against Hunger – Far Rock Urban Agro-Ecological Center, located at 45-55 Beach Channel Drive, Far Rockaway, NY 11691.
At the event we will explain all of the initiative’s specific details, so make sure you come out and hear it first.
This public announcement will be preceded at 9 a.m. with a Faith-Based and Labor Leader Breakfast. It is an invite-only event (media are permitted), at the Arverne Bay Community Center, 74-15 Beach Channel Drive, Arverne, NY 11692. This gathering is intended to foster conversation and learning, as it pertains to New York’s recently enacted cannabis laws. |
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Faith-Based and Labor Leader Breakfast
Arverne Bay Community Center
74-15 Beach Channel Drive, Arverne, NY 11692
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Breaking Ground Press Conference
Far Rock Urban Agro-Ecological Center
45-55 Beach Channel Drive, Far Rockaway, NY 11691 |
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Second Wave of Green Horizons Cannabis Study to Track Usage of Cannabis Post-COVID and Growing Acceptance Amid New State Legalization Acts
NEW ROCHELLE, July 13, 2021–
Green Horizons, a consumer insights firm for the cannabis and holistic health industry, is launching the second wave of its
Cultivating the Cannabis Market study in September 2021. Since the first wave of the study was released in early 2020, the cannabis landscape has evolved substantially. Though marijuana remains illegal under federal law, a growing number of states have legalized cannabis, stay-at-home orders deemed cannabis essential businesses, and a growing number of Americans across the political spectrum are voicing their support for legalization.
The benchmark study, a comprehensive survey of cannabis users and non-users across the U.S., found that overall, four in ten (39%) U.S. adults report using cannabis, with 28% saying they use it at least weekly. Seven in ten consumers fully or somewhat support legalizing medical marijuana on a federal level, and nearly as manysix in tenfully or somewhat support legalizing recreational marijuana on a federal level. Even among non-users, 6 in 10 support federally legalizing medical and 45% support legalizing recreational cannabis.
Moreover, Wave 1 of the study revealed:
Over half (57%) of cannabis users said they shop for cannabis at a dispensary; among cannabis users who live in a state where both medical and recreational use is legalized (and therefore likely have the most options), 52% said they buy from a local, independent dispensary, vs. 39% who said they buy from a franchised or chain dispensary. A quarter of recreational-only users and nearly half of medical + recreational users still buy from an individual, signaling additional growth opportunity in legal states.
There is a burgeoning market for new cannabis products and experiences. Four in ten cannabis users already consume edibles, drinks, or tinctures. A follow-up survey conducted by Green Horizons revealed that over half of cannabis users are interested in THC-infused adult beverages, going to restaurants with cannabis-infused cuisine, and participating in organized cannabis-themed events such as painting classes, yoga, and cannabis culinary classes.
However, one of the biggest hurdles in the cannabis market has been differentiation. Three in ten cannabis users agreed that all cannabis is pretty much the same and, across all brands tested, only threeLeafs by Snoop, Cheeba Chews, and Marley Naturalwere known by more than one in five cannabis users in the first wave of the study.
The first wave of this study was fielded right before COVID wreaked havoc on our lives, noted Adriana Waterston, SVP of Insights and Strategy for Green Horizons. We know from qualitative research that cannabis consumption increased among users during COVID. The second wave of the study will assess the impact of COVID on attitudes and behaviors around cannabis consumption, dig into even more detail about the consumption of cannabis and CBD products like infused beverages and edibles, and measure market potential for new products and services. We are very excited to help our clients grow their business using consumer research and insights to drive decision-making.
The 2021 survey will be fielded in the fall. Clients who pre-purchase the 2021 study have the opportunity to provide feedback on the questionnaire to ensure their key questions are addressed. There is also a free e-book based on the wave 1 survey available for download at
www.greenhorizonsinsights.com.
Contact:
Len Stein
Visibility Public Relations
InSpire Transpiration Solutions Announces the Return of Free Webinar Series for Cannabis Cultivators
InSpire’s resident cultivation experts will lead an in-depth discussion on cannabis phenotypes
SAN FRANCISCO — May 19, 2021 — InSpire Transpiration Solutions, a leading HVACD products and services provider focused on controlled environmental systems for indoor horticulture, is excited to announce the return of its free webinar series designed specifically for cannabis cultivators. “Getting The Most Out Of Your Cannabis Phenotype” will take place on Thursday, May 27 at 10:00 a.m. PST.
“In the fast-paced cannabis industry, new data is constantly emerging and the latest cultivation trends are always changing – it’s easy for the basic fundamentals to be forgotten along the way,” said Jesse Porter, Cannabis Business Specialist for InSpire Transpiration Solutions and co-host of the webinar series. “In this webinar, we want to take a step back and focus on the meaning of a phenotype in cannabis and why it is a foundation to success for indoor cultivation businesses.”
Indoor cultivation facility design can greatly influence what cultivators can achieve with phenotypic expression, and it serves as the backbone of a cannabis company’s financial performance. Attendees of “Getting The Most Out Of Your Cannabis Phenotype” will learn more about subjects including the factors that influence a phenotype; the impact of facility design and equipment selection on phenotypic expression; and the financial advantages and brand recognition that optimal phenotypic expression can provide for cultivators and owners in the cannabis marketplace.
The May 27 webinar will be hosted by Jesse Porter and Anders Peterson, InSpire’s Cannabis Operations Specialist. Porter has spent his professional career operating and consulting on commercial cannabis cultivation facilities, is a previous Cannabis Cup winner and an avid genetics collector. Peterson is a business-minded cannabis scientist who has dedicated his career to better understanding and unleashing the potential of the cannabis genome.
To learn more about this webinar or to register for free, visit: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rAiYpNmGSS-alvveOMzazg.
About InSpire Transpiration Solutions
InSpire Transpiration Solutions provides best in class heating, ventilation, air conditioning and dehumidification (HVACD) systems for indoor horticulture with a mission to help clients maximize plant biomass and phenotypic expression to strengthen financial performance and mitigate risk. Leading the way with more than 50 years of combined HVACD experience and nearly two decades in the cannabis industry, InSpire works with plant medicine and food system pioneers to optimize indoor environments with plant-centric commercial grow room HVACD products and data-driven cloud services to deliver consistent climate control across the entire cannabis supply chain. Combining a background in mechanical engineering and plant physiology, InSpire partners with cannabis professionals to provide purpose-built solutions that significantly impact overall business profitability. Based in San Francisco, InSpire works with clients throughout the United States and Canada. https://inspire.ag @inspire_transpiration
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Morgan Whitehouse
Public Relations
Cookies and WebberWild Join Forces to Launch Cookies U
A purpose-driven partnership to fund opportunities aimed at achieving an equitable cannabis industry
HUMBOLDT, Calif., May 19, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Cookies’ Social Impact Program, an initiative by international cannabis brand COOKIES dedicated to creating a more equitable and accessible cannabis industry, and WebberWild Impact Foundation “WebberWild,” a non-profit organization that funds education and training for persons of color pursuing careers in the cannabis sector, announced today the formation of a purpose-driven partnership to provide resources and create opportunities within the cannabis industry that empower communities and people who have been marginalized.
Initially, the partners will leverage their shared resources to establish Cookies U, a high-impact, hands-on educational experience being launched in Humboldt County that will become the model for subsequent campuses across the country. Cookies U will recruit students from communities impacted by the War on Drugs and provide a three-month long intensive and comprehensive educational curriculum to prepare them for a sustainable career in the cannabis industry. Tuition and housing will be covered through the partnership, and eligible students can receive additional coverage for lost wages, daycare expenses, and other necessities that may otherwise make participation in the program inaccessible.
“Knowledge and hands on experience are priceless. I wouldn’t be here today, in the position I’m in, if it wasn’t for the 20 years of hands on experience,” said Berner, Founder and CEO of Cookies. “I started as a budtender and worked my way up. Cookies U will provide people from groups that have been marginalized with the opportunity to learn the Business from A-to-Z. It feels good to be in a position to share this knowledge, passion, and love for the industry with people. I truly believe this is one area that has been missing for Social Equity in cannabis.”
“Not only have minorities been excessively punished and incarcerated for cannabis while others profited, but they have had unequal access to education, which perpetuates cycles of low-pay and unemployment. It is crucial that we allow those who have been impacted by the Drug War and racism to participate and benefit from the cannabis industry,” said Chris Webber, entrepreneur, five-time NBA All-Star, 2021 Basketball Hall of Fame, and Co-Founder of WebberWild. “Working with Berner and Cookies allows us to diversify representation within the cannabis industry and provide people from these communities with the tools they need for long-term success.”
Cookies U participants will be priority hires for Cookies and also all of Cookies’ partners (if they so choose) across the supply chain, including retail, cultivation, extraction and distillation, marketing and corporate finance. In addition to Cookies U, the partners will pursue other opportunities central to the mission of tearing down inequalities and creating a more accessible industry, such as community outreach, government relations, and engaging with other curriculum partners.
Students interested in applying for Cookies U can fill out a form online anytime from May 20-June 3 at https://www.impact.cookies.co/cookies-campus on the Cookies’ Social Impact Program website. Applicants must be California residents in order to apply.
About Cookies Social Impact Program
Cookies is a cannabis brand formed by a shared vision: bringing communities together for positive impact. Cookies’ Social Impact Program is comprehensive. Their mission is to target issues crucial to creating a more equitable and accessible industry. To accomplish this goal, they support social equity initiatives through public outreach, education, and reinvestment in communities negatively impacted by the War on Drugs. They partner with local organizations already making positive impacts, helping to restore the livelihood of families and individuals while providing opportunities to advance careers.
About WebberWild
The WebberWild Foundation is a non-profit organization focused on training and education for persons of color pursuing careers in the cannabis sector. The foundation is affiliated with the Webber Wild Impact Fund, LP that invests in companies led by entrepreneurs of color pursuing careers in the cannabis sector and provides them with an ecosystem of business resources that will facilitate research and development (R&D), cultivation, retail licensing, distribution, branding and marketing. The fund was co-founded by five-time NBA All-Star and 2021 Basketball Hall of Fame Chris Webber and Jason Wild, Founder and CEO of JW Asset Management.
Contact:
Rosie Mattio
Mattio Communications
rosie@mattio.com
Black Cannabis Equity Initiative and Minorities for Medical Marijuana Host Pre 4/20 National Social Equity Zoom
DATE: April 1, 2021
CONTACT: John Bailey, Event Organizer (BCEI) 720-629-0964 Roz McCarthy, Event Organizer (M4MM) 877-900-0832
Imani Dawson, Communications (M4MM) 877-900-0832
CANNABIS INDUSTRY SOCIAL EQUITY ALERT
“CHALLENGES, CHOICES AND OPPORTUNITY IN A BILLION DOLLAR INDUSTRY”
Black Cannabis Equity Initiative and Minorities for Medical Marijuana Host Pre 4/20 National Social Equity Zoom | Not Looking For A Seat at The Table, But Bringing The Table To The Community
MONDAY, APRIL 19, 2021 | 1:00PM – 6:00PM (EST)
DENVER — Longtime social equity advocate John Bailey, Founder of the Black Cannabis Equity Initiative (BCEI) and Roz McCarthy, Founder & CEO, Minorities for Medical Marijuana announce a national social equity collaboration today to advance the needle on social equity in United States by bringing authentic transparency, awareness, accountability and opportunity to the social equity conversation. These Black cannabis leaders have agreed to host a national pre-420 social equity zoom entitled “Challenges, Choices, and Opportunity in A Billion Dollar Cannabis Industry”. This national social equity zoom will be held on Monday, April 19, 2021 from 1pm-6pm EST. By peeling back the curtain with concerned stakeholders, regulators, industry leaders and elected officials from around the country, the two cannabis power players are collaborating and working to bring others to the table to lift up more voices and
accelerate the social equity conversation and journey that needs to happen in America.
“There will be more opportunities for cannabis products availability and Black community participation in the next 18 months than we’ve ever seen in legalized adult use “recreational” states. While legalization sparked what has now grown into a billion-dollar industry worldwide, people of color were largely excluded from ownership in legal cannabis, said Bailey. These new social equity licenses in cannabis legal states present a rare and limited opportunity to make real progress by providing local governments and states a framework for which social equity applicants can access these opportunities.”
Bailey went on further to say, “in order to be a successful cannabis business, our communities must be united around the social equity message. There is a lot of discussion and dialogue going on around social equity, but no clear definition or shared best practices or examples. BCEI and M4MM will take the lead role in bringing the Black community and stakeholders together on social equity clarity, social equity definitions and moving the dialogue forward on social equity in the cannabis industry in the US.” “In putting together this collaboration I was looking for progressive people who were as passionate as myself about social equity and had a history of positive community, governmental, and business commitment to leveling the cannabis playing field.
Roz McCarthy is the first person to come to mind. Roz and I have met over the years and I have admired her work. In discussions we found there was some common ground in our organizational efforts. We shared ideas on working together on social equity corporate – community engagement in the cannabis space, thus the pre-420 social equity zoom was born. We agreed there are so many committed people around the country who believe in social equity, why not join forces and try to pull them together to share information, expertise, time, talent and hear about the crucial and important work being done.
This national social equity event will mobilize and engage industry leaders, elected officials and concerned citizens in a collaborative social equity dialogue. This cannabis social equity dialogue will attempt to bring and keep the social equity conversation at the forefront of the current cannabis industry agenda as we take a broader look at how we define, hold one another accountable, and measure social equity.
“This is a limited time opportunity for communities of color and the stakes have never been higher,” said Roz McCarthy. “If the country decides to be effective and efficient in the support of national social equity opportunities in the existing cannabis industry, the Black community will have to lead the way. The Black communities’ experience in the “War on Drugs”, Model Cities, Affirmative
Action, the Great Society, and Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives makes us more than qualified to provide guidance in this space.” Minorities for Medical Marijuana (M4MM) the country’s largest community based nonprofit organization provides advocacy, outreach, education, and training to communities of color as it relates to social equity, social justice, health equity, and public policy on a daily basis.
Anyone wanting to participate in this national social equity zoom can pre-register at:
Register in advance for this 4/19 meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vd-6trj4jGNQerF-fPOTvgGVZ_mpoN8pz
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Get in the weeds with UHY as they host their first annual Cannabis Summit
27725 Stansbury Blvd, Suite 200
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
Telephone 248 355 1040
Fax 248 355 1084
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chris Clark
cclark@uhy-us.com
586 843 2637
Get in the weeds with UHY as they host their first annual Cannabis Summit
DETROIT, March 11, 2021 – UHY LLP, certified public accountants, the leading service provider in the cannabis space, will hold their first Cannabis Summit virtually, on Thursday, March 25 from 11am-12pm EDT.
The much-anticipated virtual event, titled “Cannabis Summit: Financial and Business Aspects of a Booming Market” will be led by Todd Tigges and Ali Baydoun, the leaders of UHY’s national cannabis practice. The webinar will feature discussions on entity structures that will enable companies to grow, and unintended consequences surrounding 280E for those not properly set up. Bill Secinaro and Rama Gupta of Kapnick Insurance Group will discuss making sure your business is adequately insured at all phases to protect your assets.
The webinar will be extremely useful for owners and CFOs of licensed cannabis companies that are just starting out, those that have plans to continue to grow and expand, or those companies that may be looking for an exit transaction in the next couple of years.
This is a complimentary event, and registration is available on our website. Visit https://uhy-us.com/industries/cannabis[BK1] for more information
Join Clark University for a Master Class on Social Equity and Cannabis: Challenges and Opportunities
The legalization of cannabis has created many challenges for policy makers and the businesses and individuals wishing to participate in the budding industry. Is it possible to achieve equity amidst the misinformation and often shifting needs and policies of diverse stakeholders?
At Clark University, we offer graduate programs that seek to address these challenges by providing skills that are relevant, transformative, and have real-world applications. Experience the depth of our Certificate for Regulatory Affairs for Cannabis Control by attending a Master Class “Social Equity and Cannabis: Challenges and Opportunities.”
How does the cannabis industry create a pathway for businesses and individuals who are disadvantaged due to their race, gender, or socioeconomic status? Our master class will focus on medical cannabis to illustrate the obstacles and challenges to achieving social equity.
Presenter Laury C. Lucien is a marijuana attorney, professor, and entrepreneur who has extensive cannabis policy experience. She is CEO of Major Bloom, LLC, a vertically integrated marijuana business with two licensed locations in MA, sits on the Boston Bar Association’s Cannabis Advisory Committee, and is an adjunct professor at Suffolk University Law School and Clark University. Lucien is passionate about giving back to underserved communities and believes in the power of knowledge to effect social justice and equity.
Please join us for an online Master Class presented by Clark University’s School of Professional Studies Certificate in Regulatory Affairs for Cannabis Control
Social Equity and Cannabis: Challenges and Opportunities
Presented by Laury C. Lucien
March 18, 2021 at 12:00 pm
Click Here to Register
About Clark University’s Certificate in Regulatory Affairs for Cannabis Control
Build confidence and clarity by understanding the challenges of this budding industry. Our program gives individuals access to leaders in the field and an opportunity to develop needed policy knowledge and skills to implement solutions to the complex public health and safety challenges surrounding cannabis legalization.
Learn from experts including municipal officials, public health experts, and law enforcement leaders who are deeply involved in the day-to-day industry and have firsthand experience. Clark’s cannabis certificate can help you act as an informed change agent in an industry with exponential growth potential.
The certificate consists of three, seven week online graduate level courses: Cannabis Education and Enforcement, Regulatory Framework for Cannabis Control, and Health and Public Safety Implications of Cannabis Use. All three credits can be applied to a Clark MPA degree, and the program can be completed in two semesters. Scholarships are available for MA public sector employees and government officials. We are currently accepting applications on a rolling admission basis, with program start dates in May, July, and September.
We hope that you will join us for our Online Master Class on March 18.
If you would like to discuss the Cannabis Certificate in greater detail, please email me at mpiecewicz@clarku.edu.
Reminder Email – send 3/17
Subject Line: Reminder, Join Us Tomorrow for Social Equity and Cannabis: Challenges and Opportunities — our MPA Master Class
Dear {Name},
There’s still time for you to join us tomorrow for our online master class “Social Equity and Cannabis: Challenges and Opportunities.”
Presented by Laury C. Lucien, this class will focus on medical cannabis to illustrate the obstacles and challenges to achieving social equity in the cannabis industry. Lucien will explore how the cannabis industry can create a pathway for businesses and individuals who are disadvantaged due to their race, gender, or socioeconomic status.
Register Now: Master Class – March 18 at 12:00 pm
(post event recording will be available)
Through this session, learn about how Clark University’s Certificate for Regulatory Affairs for Cannabis Control can help you act as an informed change agent in an industry with exponential growth potential.
The program allows you to learn from leading experts including municipal officials, public health experts, and law enforcement leaders who are deeply involved in the day-to-day industry and have firsthand experience.
The certificate consists of three, seven week online graduate level courses: Cannabis Education and Enforcement, Regulatory Framework for Cannabis Control, and Health and Public Safety Implications of Cannabis Use. All three credits can be applied to a Clark MPA degree, and the program can be completed in two semesters. Scholarships are available for MA public sector employees and government officials.
We are currently accepting applications on a rolling admission basis, with program start dates in May, July, and September.
If you would like to discuss this opportunity in greater detail, you can email me at mpiecewicz@clarku.edu.
We hope you will join us for this timely event.
Sincerely,
Mary M. Piecewicz, MBA, MSPC, PMP
Associate Dean
IMEPIK RELEASES ITS FULL ONLINE COURSE FOR SAFE CANNABIS EDIBLE PRODUCTION
ORLANDO, FLORIDA, FEB. 09, 2021 — As the demand for cannabis-infused edibles continues to grow, producers who put the quality and safety of their products above all will be the most successful.
To support these responsible edibles producers, ImEPIK has the Cannabis Edibles Safety Course©.
“The new course offers interactive food safety training for those making cannabis-infused edibles and must adhere to GMPs,” said Jill Droge, ImEPIK’s Chief Creative and Business Development Officer. “Cannabis edibles aren’t federally regulated yet, but those who take this course will be ahead of the competition when it happens.”
The course consists of two levels:
- Level I: GMPs and the Pyramid of Edible Safety covers the fundamentals of edible production. Essential safety concepts like GMPs and SOPs are explained, and the Pyramid of Edible Safety is introduced. This training is for employees with titles such as technician or specialist.
- Level II: The Edible Safety Plan dives deeper into hazard analysis and risk-based preventive controls for processing, sanitation, allergens and the supply chain during production. How to prevent product contamination is covered using real edibles production scenarios. This course also contains the Level I content, and is for employees with titles such as manager, supervisor or director.
“The cannabis industry has embraced the effectiveness of online training, as every company must attain regulatory compliance and be GMP audit ready,” said Kathryn Birmingham, Ph.D. ImEPIK’s Chief Operating Officer. “ImEPIK’s 100% online cannabis edible course provides the both the competencies and certificate needed by the industry today and into the future.”
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ImEPIK is a market-driven, research-based online training company that creates 100% online, self-paced food safety training for global food manufacturers. To find out more about our courses for cannabis edibles, go to https://imepikcannabissafety.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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