Navigating Missouri’s Stringent Cannabis Testing Requirements: A Deep Dive
When it comes to cannabis testing requirements, Missouri absolutely lives up to its nickname as the Show Me State, requiring its licensed cannabis businesses to run a wide series of tests to prove the cannabis they are sending to store shelves is safe.
As a relatively new state to join the cannabis industry, with voters approving medical marijuana in 2018 and recreational cannabis in 2022, Missouri has had the benefit of watching several other states develop programs ahead of it and its testing regulations reflect that.
In Missouri, both flower and pre-rolls, for example, must be tested by one of 10 state certified labs for:
Moisture Content and water activity;
Residual solvents and processing chemicals;
Residual pesticides;
Microbial impurities;
Mycotoxins;
Foreign materials;
The “big four” heavy metals (arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury) + Chromium;
Cannabinoids; and
Terpenes (if requested).
The majority of these tests are designed to protect consumers from potential dangers hidden in their cannabis products, so it is important that any rolling paper or pre rolled cones you buy – even for personal use – should pass these tests.
For example, moisture content and water activity can point to the potential for mold growth. Any water activity above 0.70 Aw creates the conditions for mold to grow, which can be harmful if consumed, which is why Missouri, like many states, caps water activity at 0.65 Aw in flower and pre-rolls.
Missouri, however, is one of a handful of states that also include chromium in their testing regiment, another dangerous heavy metal. Once chromium reaches the bloodstream, chromium can damage the kidneys, liver, and blood cells with the potential for renal and liver failure if untreated. So, you can see why states have begun adding it to their testing requirements.
MICROBIALS AND MYCOTOXINS
While heavy metals are dangerous, microbials and mycotoxins pose the greatest risk to human health.
Mycotoxins are a toxic compound produced by molds, such as Aspergillus, and can suppress the immune system and cause liver damage. Missouri requires testing for two classes of mycotoxins, Aflatoxins and Ochratoxin A. Both have properties that can alter DNA and potentially cause the formation of cancer cells. Testing for mycotoxins help ensure cannabis products are safe for human consumption.
Missouri regulations require a total mycotoxin concentration of less than 20 micrograms per kilogram for cannabis to receive a passing mark.
Missouri also requires testing for other microbials like Pathogenic E. Coli, Salmonella and Pathogenic Aspergillus Species including A. fumigatus, A. flabus, A. niger and A. terreus.
PESTICIDES
Missouri also requires testing for residual pesticides and other chemicals. The state allows some pesticides to be used on cannabis – tracked by the Missouri Department of Agriculture’s Pesticide Program – but cultivators are required to report in the state track and trace system all pesticides, fertilizers and other chemicals applied to the plants, as well as all the ingredients contained in each of those.
State law requires tests for 61 chemicals and 20 residual solvents, with actionable limits, and foreign matter screening.
LABELING LAWS
Missouri also has a very strict labeling law for its cannabis packaging that requires specific information in a specific order, beginning with the state’s diamond THC logo, the letter “M,” all ingredients, license number of the producer and where the products passed their testing, as well as the track-and-trace number for the samples and the THC potency, among others.
LAB LICENSING AND LAB SHOPPING
Aside from specifics for testing, the Show Me State goes even further when it comes to which labs can be used and how those labs get licensed.
Missouri law contains provisions for exactly who at the labs can conduct the tests, requiring the labs to be employ a laboratory director with a degree in a natural science and at least five years’ experience in a regulated lab environment or a degree in “another applicable field” with 10 years’ experience. It also requires the person performing the test to have a bachelor’s degree in natural science and at least two years of lab experience.
But recent updates to Missouri’s regulations go even a step further than most states in an attempt to stop the process known as “lab shopping” to get desired results. Normally aimed at trying to limit THC potency inflation, the new law requires producers and labs to submit their samples to other labs so results can be compared.
For example, the new regulations say that up to 10 times per year, the state will require one lab to pick up samples from another lab and re-perform a test. The state will review all the results to make sure they have similar potency results and to see if one lab is passing samples for pesticide residue while another one is failing it.
According to Custom Cones USA Compliance Manager André Bayard, while the main focus of the new law appears to be THC potency inflation, which, of course, is a major driver of sales for cannabis companies, that too is a safety concern, especially in the medical market or for low-dose patients and consumers.
ENSURING PRE-ROLL COMPLIANCE
As noted, the Missouri law requires all products be tested in their final form, including pre-rolls. That means even if your cannabis is clean, your products can fail and be destroyed if your rolling papers are not.
Because of that, manufacturers need to protect themselves – and their customers – by carefully selecting suppliers. After all, a study from California’s SC labs found that 11% of rolling papers they tested would fail that state’s testing regiment, which doesn’t even include Chromium, and that 90% of rolling papers contained heavy metals with more than 8% containing them at a rate above the allowable limits.
Pre-roll manufacturers in particular need to pay attention to their suppliers and make sure that the company from which they buy their paper takes testing as seriously as they do. Bayard recommends making sure your pre-roll paper supplier is a partner.
“Find a supplier that is willing to work with you and do the due diligence to make sure you know ahead of time whether your paper will pass,” Bayard says.
Bayard notes that when contacted by a manufacturer in Missouri in 2022 about chromium content causing failures, Custom Cones USA sent samples ahead of time so the manufacturer could pack and test a handful of their completed pre-rolls to make sure the products were clean before committing to a full order.
If your pre-roll supplier is not willing to go through that step, it may be a red flag.
Testing failures can be expensive, so make sure you not only keep up on the latest changes to your states regulations, but also work with a Pre-Roll Expert to get the cleanest, best-tested pre rolled cones you can find. And always ask to see COAs.
Engage with Missouri’s Cannabis Community: Join Us at the Summit!
As you navigate through Missouri’s stringent cannabis testing requirements, it’s imperative to stay informed and engaged with the latest developments in the industry. To further your understanding and involvement, consider joining us at the upcoming Missouri Stakeholder Summit, hosted by the National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA). The Missouri Stakeholder Summit serves as a crucial platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to convene and discuss the pressing issues shaping Missouri’s cannabis landscape. Each event will host a wide range of programming including interactive panel discussions, intimate fireside chats, and live Q&A to provide participants the opportunity to make the Voice of Main Street Cannabis heard by key decision makers.
All industry professionals are invited; NCIA members attend free and have exclusive access to Q&A sessions. From regulatory updates to market insights, this summit offers a comprehensive view of the opportunities and challenges ahead. From regulatory updates to market insights, this summit offers a comprehensive view of the opportunities and challenges ahead.
Ready to elevate your involvement in the cannabis industry? Explore the benefits of NCIA membership and gain access to exclusive resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy initiatives. Join online today or schedule a meeting with our team to learn more about membership and how NCIA can support your professional growth and business success.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the industry, the summit provides invaluable networking opportunities, expert panels, and discussions tailored to meet your needs. It’s a chance to connect with like-minded individuals, gain strategic knowledge, and contribute to the growth of Missouri’s cannabis market. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to be part of the conversation that drives change and innovation in Missouri’s cannabis industry. Register now to secure your spot and take an active role in shaping the future of cannabis in the Show Me State!
Webinar Release: Positioning for Prosperity – Insurance Essentials for Social Equity Awardees
In our ongoing commitment to providing timely and essential education to the cannabis industry, the National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA) recently hosted a thought-provoking webinar titled “Positioning for Prosperity: Insurance Essentials for Social Equity Awardees.” In collaboration with NCIA’s Risk Management & Insurance Committee (RMIC), this webinar delved into the critical considerations surrounding insurance needs within the cannabis industry.
Led by a panel of esteemed experts, the discussion navigated the intricate landscape of insurance coverage, specifically tailored to address the needs of social equity awardees. From exploring the advantages and disadvantages of social equity programs to addressing challenges such as information inaccessibility and skyrocketing premiums, the webinar provided valuable insights for businesses seeking to navigate the insurance landscape.
Key topics included:
Defining social equity awardees and discussing their advantages and disadvantages in the industry and market.
Exploring the unique coverage needs for social equity awardees.
Examining real-life examples of what has and hasn’t worked in the cannabis industry regarding insurance coverage.
Understanding the differences between state requirements and optimal coverage for cannabis businesses.
Exploring other financial requirements that help social equity awardees establish sustainable companies.
Throughout the webinar, participants gained insights into how to position their businesses for success in the evolving cannabis landscape while gaining a deeper understanding of the vital role organizations like CANNRA play in progressive policy improvement.
Missed the webinar? Don’t worry! You can watch the full recording on our YouTube channel below.
At NCIA, we remain committed to providing valuable resources, education, and insights to empower businesses and individuals within the cannabis industry. Stay tuned for more updates, webinars, and events designed to support your journey in the cannabis space.
Thank you to our panelists, attendees, and the RMIC for their contributions to making this webinar a success.
Navigating the New Normal: A Regulator’s Outlook on Federal Momentum | 10.26.23 | Policy Matters
Welcome to the second edition of our new Policy Matters series, dedicated to unraveling the intricate world of regulatory and policy dynamics within the cannabis industry. In the previous edition of Policy Matters, we had the privilege of hosting Will Tilburg from the Maryland Cannabis Administration, who shared his perspectives into the strategic aspects of designing a thriving cannabis market while meeting regulatory standards. This month, we continue our exploration into the world of cannabis policy, focusing on the potential implications of federal cannabis reform and recommended preparations for various stakeholders, including regulators, industry players, and the public.
In this #IndustryEssentials webinar series, we aim to provide Main Street cannabis operators valuable insights from regulators, industry experts, and advocates to keep you informed about the latest developments and challenges in the ever-evolving cannabis landscape. This article provides a comprehensive summary of the discussions, speaker highlights, and key takeaways from the event, continue reading and view the full recording below.
John Hudak: A Transition from Academia to Public Service
Our guest speaker for October’s edition of “Policy Matters”, John Hudak, serves as the Director of the Office of Cannabis Policy in Maine, a role he took on after serving as a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution. His background is an interesting blend of academic expertise and hands-on experience in state government and he touched on how this transition reflects his strong commitment to public service and his desire to implement real-world policies.
Hudak emphasized the challenges of engaging with industry stakeholders and regulators, even from a state perspective. He highlighted the importance of good public policy that not only benefits the cannabis industry but also safeguards the well-being of the people of Maine. His insights underscored the need for a balanced approach in crafting cannabis policies that are in the best interest of all stakeholders.
The Significance of Cannabis Rescheduling
The recent rescheduling recommendations of cannabis was discussed as great momentum in the right direction on the path to federal cannabis reform. While it wasn’t expected to lead to full descheduling, rescheduling still represents a positive step forward. This shift in classification may offer some much-needed tax relief for an industry that has faced considerable financial challenges, especially for smaller businesses.
The change in cannabis classification may also prompt a reevaluation of state-level business deductions, aligning them more closely with federal tax codes. Additionally, it was noted that the optics of President Biden initiating the rescheduling process were noteworthy, given his history on drug policy. However, it was emphasized that federal legalization should only occur when the government is well-prepared to manage the potential repercussions to avoid any undesirable outcomes.
Congressional Challenges to Federal Cannabis Reform
Michelle Rutter Friberg, NCIA’s Director of Government Relations, joined the discussion this month, shedding light on the challenges related to congressional action or inaction in the context of federal cannabis reform. She raised concerns that Congress might view its work as done if rescheduling takes place and that the historical difficulty in reaching a consensus on various issues within Congress poses a potential threat to further federal cannabis reform.
Years of congressional inaction have led to market consolidation, impacting small businesses and creating disparities within the industry. These insights highlighted the inherently political nature of the current reform process. Michelle also mentioned President Biden’s campaign promise to reform cannabis policies, which continues to influence the ongoing debate.
Balancing Politics and Cannabis Policy
Khurshid Khoja, NCIA’s Policy Co-Chair & Co-Host of Policy Matters, contributed his perspective to the discussion, recognizing that rescheduling is indeed a positive step as it acknowledges the medical uses of cannabis. He emphasized that the cannabis industry would welcome any form of tax relief that may come with rescheduling. The speakers collectively explored the fears and expectations related to rescheduling and its potential impact on the industry. They also discussed the importance of cautious regulation and research-backed medical claims while stressing the importance of protecting small businesses and ensuring they are not left behind during the reform process.
John Hudak shared further insights into the importance of collaboration between federal and state regulators with the challenges of shared jurisdiction between federal and state authorities being highlighted, particularly concerning public health and safety. Hudak emphasized the need for guidance or regulations from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to provide clarity for both regulators and the industry. The benefits of standardization in labeling and packaging across states were also discussed, with an emphasis on reducing burdens for small cannabis businesses.
Hudak’s approach to preparing Maine for federal legalization differs from how other states might approach it. Rather than rushing to issue new rules or guidance based on assumptions, he emphasized the importance of crafting contingency plans. Such plans would allow states to be ready for various scenarios post-federal legalization, rather than being caught flat-footed. He explained that they are considering unknown, known, and nearly guaranteed aspects of federal legalization to ensure they are well-prepared.
Hudak cited the importance of labeling standards, as these are among the regulatory aspects that are likely to be implemented. Drawing from past experiences with federal reforms, such as the Affordable Care Act and HIPAA, he illustrated the significance of state preparation and the impact it has on successful implementation.
Audience Question and Opportunities for Industry Engagement
An audience question by Tucker Holland (principal of Blooming Member Entourage Cannabis, an Oregon infused product manufacturer) raised the necessity of federal descheduling leading to federal re-regulation. The question emphasized that states already regulate their individual markets, and there was interest in exploring a pathway where federal responsibility might be pushed to the states.
In response, the speakers discussed the complexities of the issue and the need for effective collaboration between state and federal regulators. While the specifics of such collaboration remain a work in progress, the role of state regulators remains pivotal in shaping the future of cannabis regulation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the insights shared during this Policy Matters webinar shed light on the complexities and challenges associated with federal cannabis reform. From the significance of rescheduling to the impact of taxation and market consolidation, the conversations between the panelists highlighted the need for cautious and well-informed policies. The discussions also underscored the importance of industry engagement and active participation in shaping federal regulations. This is a pivotal moment for the cannabis industry, and it is clear that industry stakeholders have a role to play in influencing the path forward.
The journey towards federal cannabis reform is an ongoing process, and it’s imperative that industry stakeholders, advocates, and regulators work together to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. With your commitment to informed and balanced policies, we can continue to move forward, fostering an environment that benefits all members of the cannabis community. Join NCIA today to be a part of this influential movement.
Watch the Full Discussion on YouTube
If you’re eager to dive deeper into this insightful conversation, we encourage you to watch the full webinar on NCIA’s official YouTube channel. This video provides an opportunity to absorb every detail, gain a comprehensive understanding of the issues discussed, and explore the valuable insights offered by our panel of experts.
The Path Forward
As the cannabis industry continues to evolve and adapt, staying informed and engaged remains crucial. Opportunities like the NCIA’s committee applications, industry events, and educational sessions provide avenues for individuals and businesses to get involved and make their voices heard.
Last month, we had the opportunity to gain valuable insights from Will Tilburg of the Maryland Cannabis Administration, shedding light on the challenges and successes of of launching an adult-use cannabis market in record time. This month, we’ve explored the critical topic of preparing for federal cannabis reform, its potential implications for various industry stakeholders and the nuanced aspects surrounding it.
Stay tuned for future editions of Policy Matters, where we’ll continue to tackle the most pertinent issues in the cannabis industry, providing you with valuable insights and fostering dialogue on the policies that shape the future of cannabis in the United States. Your voice in the development of common sense policy matters, and together, we can make a difference.
Welcome to the National Cannabis Industry Association’s (NCIA) insightful webinar recording, “Committee Insights: Where Risk Assessment Integrity Meets Policy.” Hosted by NCIA’s Cannabis Manufacturing Committee and originally broadcast on Tuesday, October 24th, 2023, this session provided a deep dive into the complex but critical intersection of cannabis industry risk assessment and policy development. This blog post will highlight key discussions and insights from the panel, offering a condensed overview of the critical issues explored during the webinar, continue reading and view the full recording below.
Comprehensive Risk Assessment for Vape Product Manufacturers
The panelists underscored the importance of thorough risk assessments for vape product manufacturers, especially in the highly regulated cannabis and hemp sectors. The conversation centered on essential areas of concern, including the potential for fraud, liability, and the significance of ingredient selection, particularly terpenes. Material of construction and employee safety were also key factors that were addressed.
Hardware Risks and Due Diligence
The webinar uncovered the risks associated with hardware components and vendors. It shed light on the due diligence required when introducing new vape products, which includes vetting hardware suppliers and partners. Addressing concerns related to shrinkage and theft was another significant aspect of risk management. Additionally, the panel stressed the importance of setting safety guidelines based on industry standards such as ASTM.
Safety Standards and Ingredient Considerations
The discussion dived into the implications of safety standards, especially ASTM, and their role in determining acceptable safety levels within the industry. The panel emphasized the importance of ingredient considerations, particularly in preventing E-cigarette or Vaping Product Use-Associated Lung Injury (EVALI). Risk assessment for ingredients was a major focus, as it plays a critical role in product safety and integrity.
Implications of Fraud and Counterfeit Products
A crucial point discussed was the far-reaching implications of fraud, counterfeit products, and negligence within the cannabis and hemp industry. The panelists delved into the legal considerations when unknowingly selling dangerous products. They also highlighted the industry’s ongoing struggle with counterfeiting and the need for robust prevention measures to protect consumers.
Regulatory Challenges and Industry Growth
The webinar touched upon the challenges of navigating regulatory environments for both regulators and operators. The panelists emphasized the need for striking a balance between regulation and innovation to ensure the industry’s growth while maintaining product safety. The conversation also addressed the evolving landscape of marketing and advertising regulations, emphasizing the need for clear guidance in these areas.
Essential Insights from Industry Experts
Learn more about our distinguished panel of NCIA member experts including hardware & product manufacturers, toxicologists, legal professionals and regulators each of which brought their unique perspective and insights to our comprehensive exploration.
This is the third of five in a multi-part series of #IndustryEssentials webinars. You can watch Parts I & II plus register Part IV & V at the links below.
Episode I – Committee Insights: Mapping the Vape Landscape: Where are We and Where Do We Go from Here?” – [Watch Here]
Episode II – Committee Insights: Cannabis Vaping – Avoid Being an Easy Target – [Watch Here]
Episode IV: Committee Insights: Cannabis Vaping – Beyond the Pen – [Date & Time TBD]
Episode V: Committee Insights: Dabinar Special Edition – Dabbing 101 – [Date & Time TBD]
For access to our full webinar recording archive, featuring 100+ episodes from five separate recurring series, head here.
Join NCIA and Be Part of Future Speaking Opportunities
If you’re eager to share your expertise and insights with our dynamic cannabis community, we encourage you to consider becoming a member of the National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA). Our member-led committees, such as the Cannabis Manufacturing Committee, offer numerous opportunities to participate in our webinars and events as a speaker. By joining NCIA, you’ll be well-positioned to become a part of our expert panelists in the future. Don’t miss the chance to contribute to meaningful discussions that help shape the cannabis industry.
Learn more about NCIA membership and the benefits it offers here.
Explore Sponsorship Opportunities
For those interested in sponsoring future webinars and events to reach a broad and engaged audience within the cannabis industry, we invite you to fill out our sponsorship inquiry form. Our team will be happy to provide you with more details on how you can collaborate with NCIA to promote your brand and engage with our community.
Your involvement with NCIA opens doors to a wealth of opportunities in the ever-evolving cannabis industry. We look forward to having you as part of our vibrant community!
A Valuable Resource for Industry Professionals
NCIA’s “Committee Insights” series serves as a comprehensive resource for cannabis and hemp industry professionals and this episode offers valuable insights into the critical role of risk assessment and policy development in shaping the future of cannabis operations. By exploring our full recording, you’ll gain invaluable insights and stay informed about the latest developments in the ever-evolving cannabis industry.
Stay Connected with NCIA
Thank you for being a part of our dynamic cannabis community. NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinar series is our premier digital educational platform, offering timely and essential insights precisely when you need them. This session is part of our Committee Insights series, produced in collaboration with our member-led committees. Sign up today to receive more industry insights and updates to stay ahead in the evolving cannabis and hemp sectors.
Cannabis Vaping – Avoid Being an Easy Target | 10.12.23 | NCIA #IndustryEssentials Webinar
In the ever-evolving cannabis industry, staying informed and educated is paramount. The National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA) understands this need and presents its premier digital educational series, the #IndustryEssentials webinar series. The latest installment, “Committee Insights: Cannabis Vaping – Avoid Being an Easy Target” is a deep dive into the world of cannabis manufacturing risk management.
A Changing Landscape: The 2019 EVALI Outbreak
The year 2019 brought a significant shift in the cannabis vaping landscape with the EVALI outbreak. This crisis stirred up the cannabis vape industry, causing some businesses to become easy targets in the court of public opinion. The incident prompted a critical need for companies to design safer products and expand their due diligence testing during the product development phase. With vaping remaining a popular form of consumption, particularly among GenZ users, the industry found itself at a crossroads.
A Journey into Risk Management
NCIA’s second vaping webinar of 2023 addressed these challenges head-on, gathering industry experts to discuss what their companies are doing to avoid being easy targets, prevent another EVALI-like crisis, and navigate an industry in the absence of regulations. The session focused on key learning objectives, including risk assessment and due diligence protocols, best practices and manufacturing standards during product development, youth prevention strategies, and insights gained from emissions testing of vape products.
A Source of Valuable Insights
This webinar was a source of invaluable insights, covering risk management strategies that are crucial for manufacturers in the cannabis industry. It highlighted the significance of risk assessment and due diligence protocols, enabling businesses to determine consumer exposure limits. The presentation of best practices and manufacturing standards helps set industry benchmarks, ensuring product quality and safety. Addressing youth prevention strategies is essential for responsible cannabis consumption. Finally, the discussion on emissions testing of vape products provides information for creating a safer industry.
Becoming Part of the NCIA Community
If you found this webinar valuable and wish to access more educational content and networking opportunities, consider becoming a member of the National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA). Membership opens doors to a wealth of resources and opportunities in the cannabis industry.
Sponsorship Opportunities
For businesses looking to gain visibility in educational programs and webinars like this one, NCIA offers sponsorship opportunities. Partnering with NCIA can help companies establish a presence in the industry and connect with professionals and enthusiasts.
In conclusion, NCIA’s commitment to providing timely, engaging, and essential education is evident in its #IndustryEssentials webinar series. The “Committee Insights: Cannabis Vaping – Avoid Being an Easy Target” webinar brings us closer to understanding the risks and challenges faced by manufacturers in the cannabis industry. As the industry continues to evolve, staying informed and educated is key to success.
Future Editions of this Series
This is the second of five in a multi-part series of #IndustryEssentials webinars. You can watch Parts I & III plus register Part IV & V at the links below.
Episode I – Committee Insights: Mapping the Vape Landscape: Where are We and Where Do We Go from Here?” – [Watch Here]
Episode III – Committee Insights: Where Risk Assessment Integrity Meets Policy –[Watch Here]
Episode IV: Committee Insights: Cannabis Vaping – Beyond the Pen – [Date & Time TBD]
Episode V: Committee Insights: Dabinar Special Edition – Dabbing 101 – [Date & Time TBD]
Stay tuned as more details surrounding Parts IV & V will be announced soon!
Thank you for reading, and stay tuned for more updates from NCIA, your trusted source for cannabis industry insights and knowledge.
Mapping the Vape Landscape | 10.2.23 | Committee Insights
Welcome to the recorded session of our webinar, “Mapping the Vape Landscape: Where are We and Where Do We Go from Here?” In this engaging discussion, hosted by NCIA’s Cannabis Manufacturing Committee, we dive into the dynamic world of vaping in the cannabis industry.
NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinar series is our premier digital educational platform, offering timely and essential insights when you need them most. This session is part of our Committee Insights series, produced in collaboration with our member-led committees.
Vaping is often hailed as the future of our industry, providing potent doses at a lower cost. However, it’s also a topic of controversy. This webinar features a distinguished panel that covers all aspects of the vaping vertical, from industry leaders to experts in hardware and safety standards. Whether you’re a retailer, brand representative, manufacturer, or a newcomer, this discussion addresses misconceptions, spotlights current trends, and prepares you for the future of vaping.
Learning Objectives:
• Explore the current categories of devices, products, and formulations.
• Discover strategies to optimize the user experience in a rapidly evolving market.
• Gain insights into the regulations shaping the vaping industry.
• Peer into the future: standards, trends, and potential game-changers.
Panelists:
Tucker Holland
Co-founder, CFO and Processing Director Entourage Cannabis
Darwin Millard
Chief Scientific Officer Final Bell
Join us in this exploration of the vape landscape and gain valuable insights from industry experts. Watch the recording to enhance your understanding of the cannabis industry’s most polarizing yet transformative segment.
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This is the first of five in a multi-part series of #IndustryEssentials webinars. You can watch Parts II & III plus register Part IV & V at the links below.
Episode II – Committee Insights: Cannabis Vaping – Avoid Being an Easy Target – [Watch Here]
Episode III – Committee Insights: Where Risk Assessment Integrity Meets Policy –[Watch Here]
Episode IV: Committee Insights: Cannabis Vaping – Beyond the Pen – [Date & Time TBD]
Episode V: Committee Insights: Dabinar Special Edition – Dabbing 101 – [Date & Time TBD]
Stay tuned as more details surrounding Parts IV & V will be announced soon!
Service Solutions | 9.20.23 | Seed to Sprout – Defining an Engaging Employee Experience for Retention & Performance
In this thought-provoking #IndustryEssentials webinar, we delve into a crucial topic for cannabis businesses: “Defining an Engaging Employee Experience for Retention & Performance”
In the ever-evolving landscape of the cannabis industry, businesses face unique challenges, including high turnover rates and low employee engagement. These issues can have a significant impact on a company’s bottom line. Did you know that replacing an entry-level worker can cost up to 50% of their salary, while for high-level workers, this figure can skyrocket to 400%?
In this webinar, we explore how prioritizing the employee experience is not only a strategy to maintain your workforce but also a means to provide a quality work-life balance for your staff. Our expert speakers discuss the value of the employee experience, immediate strategies for improvement, top trends to incorporate into your strategy, and how to develop a framework for success.
Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis industry professional or just beginning your journey, this webinar provides valuable insights that can transform your approach to employee engagement. NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinar series is your premier source for timely, engaging, and essential education when you need it most.
Stay connected with NCIA for more insightful webinars and industry updates. Subscribe, like, and hit the notification bell to never miss our valuable content. Join us in redefining the employee experience and boosting your business’s success. Watch the full webinar now and take the first step towards a more engaged and productive workforce.
America in Miniature Goes Green: Maryland’s Journey to Adult-Use Cannabis | 9.7.23 | Policy Matters
Introducing “Policy Matters” – an insightful new #IndustryEssentials webinar series dedicated to unraveling the intricate world of regulatory and policy dynamics within the cannabis industry. As the cannabis landscape continues to evolve, staying informed about the latest regulations and policies impacting Main Street cannabis operators is crucial for success. Join us for a series of engaging discussions where regional regulators, industry leaders, legal experts, and policy influencers come together with NCIA leadership to shed light on the most pressing issues facing cannabis professionals.
Are you curious about the intricacies of launching an adult-use cannabis market in record time? In the debut episode of our new Policy Matters webinar series we delved into the strategic aspects of designing a thriving cannabis market while meeting regulatory standards. In this exclusive session, NCIA Policy Co-Chairs Khurshid Khoja and Michael Cooper were joined by Will Tilburg, Director of the Maryland Cannabis Administration and President of the Cannabis Regulators Association, to explore invaluable insights into the objectives that drive cannabis regulators and the pitfalls they strive to avoid. Discover the pressing enforcement challenges that are top of mind for cannabis regulators in 2023 and gain a clear understanding of the evolving landscape.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain an understanding of how policy matters in the fast-paced cannabis sector. Stay informed, stay ahead, and be part of the conversation that’s shaping the future of cannabis policy. Tune in today and empower yourself with the knowledge to thrive in this dynamic industry.
03:40 – Launching an Adult Use Market in 2023 | Were there lessons from the existing medical market and others around the nation that you identified as important, both success stories and pitfalls to avoid?
07:23 – Launching an Adult Use Market in 2023 | What allowed you to move so efficiently and what lessons would you highlight for industry and regulators in new markets rolling-out in the future?
12:48 – Launching an Adult Use Market in 2023 | What are some priorities you have for the months ahead?
16:55 – Launching an Adult Use Market in 2023 | What advice would you give to future regulators on building relationships within the executive branch to prioritize these issues?
22:20 – Social Equity | Can you talk about reserving the first round of adult-use cannabis licenses exclusively for social equity applicants and other recent milestones or developments working with the Office of Social Equity?
28:56 – Social Equity | How has Maryland worked to make its medical cannabis industry more equitable and ensure these goals aren’t undercut as they have been with similar licensing preferences in other states?
34:04 – Enforcement | How did the state set up its enforcement plan? How do you strike a balance in a new market between a complete absence of enforcement and protecting public health?
37:34 – Enforcement | What are some key enforcement priorities for you looking ahead?
41:40 – CANNRA | Can you talk about the Cannabis Regulators Association (CANNRA) purpose, membership, and goals?
44:39 – CANNRA | What are the priorities or goals for your tenure as CANNRA president?
47:20 – Federal Reform & Regulation | What is Maryland doing to address the hemp-derived cannabinoids issue as it relates to protecting public health and unfair competition with adult-use cannabis licensees?
52:10 – Federal Reform & Regulation | As a state regulator, how did you receive the recent HHS recommendation for rescheduling of cannabis to Schedule III?
56:34 – Federal Reform & Regulation | What is the optimal division of labor between state and federal government if cannabis is completely descheduled in the future?
Cracking the Code – Unraveling the Challenge of Coverage for Novel Cannabinoids | 8.8.23 | Committee Insights
NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinar series is our premier digital educational platform featuring a variety of interactive programs allowing us to provide you timely, engaging and essential education when you need it most.
In this edition of our Committee Insights series, originally aired on August 8, NCIA’s Risk Management & Insurance Committee explored why insurance for novel cannabinoids can be such a challenging code to crack. Our discussion will help you navigate through liability and legislative loopholes, offering a clearer understanding of your exposure, while considering the patchwork of federal and state requirements.
In case you missed it, in conjunction with this session they’ve also released the third edition of their “Risk Management and Insurance Manual” specifically exploring this subject, which is available for download on NCIA’s website here: https://bit.ly/3OvGtag
You’ll leave with a better understanding of how unravel the complexities of insuring novel cannabinoids and equipped with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions regarding your insurance coverage. Whether you’re a cannabis business owner, a risk manager, an insurance professional, or anyone with an interest in this topic, this webinar will provide you with practical takeaways to safeguard your products, operations, and workforce.
Tune in as we crack the code to safeguard your products, operations and workforce!
Committee Insights | 7.26.23 | Concepts for Regulatory Consideration – Shifting the Conversation from “Cannabis vs. Hemp” to “The Cannabinoids”
NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinar series is our premier digital educational platform featuring a variety of interactive programs allowing us to provide you timely, engaging and essential education when you need it most.
In this edition of our NCIA Committee Insights series, originally aired on July 26, we were joined by leading cannabinoid product manufacturers and Cannabis Regulators Association (representing cannabis and hemp regulators across more than 40 states and U.S. territories) to examine different approaches to regulating consumer products containing cannabinoids across the US and discuss the potential for harmonized regulations in the future.
Regulating the cannabinoids is difficult enough, but throw in the challenges associated with cannabinoids derived from marijuana or hemp and the challenges can get even more complicated. Not to mention the debate between intoxicating and non-intoxicating cannabinoids and how to address the risks to public health and safety from these different types of cannabinoids. Then you have the proverbial “cherry on top” with how to address cannabinoids, both naturally occurring and novel, being produced by genetically modified organisms and scientists in the lab. There has got to be a logical way to solve this problem.
One potential solution is shifting the conversation away from cannabis vs. hemp and toward the constituents of concern, the cannabinoids. By regulating the cannabinoids, we can focus the debate on what matters, how to regulate cannabinoid ingredients in a way that is proportional to the level of risk to public health and safety. This ensures we have both a functional and vibrant cannabinoid products market and the means to protect consumers.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn about the similarities and differences between marijuana and hemp regulations for consumer products containing cannabinoids
• Find out what a consumer product containing cannabinoids is and how this concept can be used to promote more common sense regulations
• Listen to new perspectives on the challenges facing the cannabinoid-containing consumer products space and how to more efficiently regulate this marketplace
Curious about the complex world of cannabinoid regulation? Sit back and settle in for an insightful webinar where we delve into the challenges (and solutions!) surrounding cannabinoids derived from marijuana and hemp.
From Lab to Label: Safeguarding Consumers in the Cannabinoid Product Landscape (Part III): https://bit.ly/3Xc9Lx6
Know Your Hazards – Occupational Health and Safety Considerations in Cannabinoid Ingredient Manufacturing (Part IV): https://bit.ly/3rEUeKP
Committee Insights | 7.13.23 | Know Your Hazards – Occupational Health and Safety Considerations in Cannabinoid Ingredient Manufacturing
NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinar series is our premier digital educational platform featuring a variety of interactive programs allowing us to provide you timely, engaging and essential education when you need it most.
In this edition of our NCIA Committee Insights series, originally aired on July 13, we were joined by members of NCIA’s Cannabis Manufacturing, Scientific Advisory and Hemp Committees for an in-depth discussion highlighting the occupational health and safety considerations to make during the manufacture of cannabinoids and provide recommendations for mitigating risk.
There is no mistaking that manufacturing cannabinoids is here to stay. It is more and more prevalent to see historically plant/naturally derived bulk ingredients being manufactured in a controlled environment in the lab or through innovative processes like precision fermentation. It is likely that bulk ingredient manufacturing of cannabinoids will go this route too.
For cannabinoids like HHC, that do not exist naturally in the plant or in high enough quantities to be commercially viable for extraction, it is most certainly the case that manufacture of these compounds will occur in the lab. To produce these compounds safely, we can luckily look toward existing regulations and occupational health and safety guidelines for producing novel ingredients for use in foods and non-foods.
Learning Objectives:
• Recognizing common occupational safety hazards associated with manufacturing cannabinoids and recommendation to mitigate these hazards
• Learning the different occupational safety considerations between isolation and purification of naturally occurring cannabinoids and the manufacture (synthesis) of cannabinoids in the lab
• Understanding the special safety considerations that processes like hydrogenation and others have and why these are critical to mitigating liability for your business
From Lab to Label: Safeguarding Consumers in the Cannabinoid Product Landscape (Part III): https://bit.ly/3Xc9Lx6
Know Your Hazards – Occupational Health and Safety Considerations in Cannabinoid Ingredient Manufacturing (Part IV): https://bit.ly/3rEUeKP
Concepts for Regulatory Consideration – Shifting the Conversation from “Cannabis vs. Hemp” to “The Cannabinoids” (Part V): https://bit.ly/3P3r5AW
Committee Insights | From Lab to Label: Safeguarding Consumers in the Cannabinoid Product Landscape
NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinar series is our premier digital educational platform featuring a variety of interactive programs allowing us to provide you timely, engaging and essential education when you need it most.
In this edition of our NCIA Committee Insights series, originally aired on June 13, we were joined by members of NCIA’s Cannabis Manufacturing, Scientific Advisory and Hemp Committees for an in-depth discussion of the current cannabinoid testing & labeling landscape alongside complications compounding consumer safety and product manufacturing concerns.
Consumer products that contain cannabinoids are a popular new consumer product category sweeping the United States. Whether these consumer products are manufactured using cannabinoids derived from cannabis or hemp, consumers deserve to know what they are consuming.
Truth in labeling is critical to providing cannabinoid content information to a consumer so they can make an informed purchase decision and in ensuring consumer safety. However, with so many different label content requirements from state to state for consumer products containing cannabinoids, this lack of consistency can lead to potential risks to the end consumer.
This is especially true when the majority of cannabinoid product manufacturers are dependent on third-party data during product manufacturing and compliance testing. This interdependence between testing laboratories and product manufacturers makes it all the more important that label content requirements are both achievable from a manufacturing standpoint without being overly burdensome for regulators to verify and do not endanger public health and safety.
In this webinar, our panelists explored about the current state of America’s somewhat-monitored cannabinoid-product marketplace, and examined several of the issues related to cannabinoid quantification, cannabinoid content declarations, and label claim verification and how these relate to consumer safety.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn about the potential risks associated with untested, unlabeled products both for the business owner and as a consumer
• Review the current landscape of cannabinoid testing requirements, how they vary state to state and the role 3rd party labs play in the picture
• Understand the nuances with label content compliance and implications on label claims
• Explore data integrity issues preventing consumers from making informed decisions
• Share best practices for what the the industry should do, what consumers can do and what regulators need to do
Panelists:
Paul Coble
Technology Attorney
Harris Bricken Sliwoski LLP
Matthew Johnson
Vice President, Risk Services
QuadScore Insurance Services
From Lab to Label: Safeguarding Consumers in the Cannabinoid Product Landscape (Part III): https://bit.ly/3Xc9Lx6
Know Your Hazards – Occupational Health and Safety Considerations in Cannabinoid Ingredient Manufacturing (Part IV): https://bit.ly/3rEUeKP
Concepts for Regulatory Consideration – Shifting the Conversation from “Cannabis vs. Hemp” to “The Cannabinoids” (Part V): https://bit.ly/3P3r5AW
Catalyst Conversations | 06.06.23 | It Takes an Educational Ecosystem to Empower a Community
NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinar series is our premier digital educational platform featuring a variety of interactive programs allowing us to provide you timely, engaging and essential education when you need it most. NCIA’s Catalyst Conversations series is an advanced webinar series curated to give enrollees in our Social Equity Scholarship program the opportunity to network and gain access to valuable knowledge that will help them excel in the cannabis industry.
Looking for ways to empower your community? Trying to figure out a way to build an impactful business in cannabis? It’s going to take dynamic and intentional ecosystems to get the most out of the generational opportunities cannabis is opening up.
In this edition of our Catalyst Conversations series originally aired on Wednesday, June 6, members of NCIA’s Education Committee and Health Equity Working Group were joined by San Francisco’s Office of Cannabis, City College of San Francisco, and Green Enterprise’s HBCU College to Careers Tour.
The institutions shared their experiences, lessons learned, best practices, and perhaps most importantly demonstrated the importance of collaboration to create truly holistic educational ecosystems that will create both long and short term impact, particularly in communities harmed by the War on Drugs.
Learning Objectives
• Gain insights into how educational institutions, government agencies, the business community, and the private sector are collaborating to foster Equity in cannabis and the community at large
• Understand the obstacles and how to navigate them when creating a college to careers pipeline for greater DEI in cannabis
• Learn about what types of educational programming exists for people interested in entering the cannabis industry
Panelists:
Toni MSN, RN, CYT
Founder
Toni – Consulting and Wellness
Cherron Perry-Thomas
Director of Social Impact | Founder
Diasporic Alliance for Cannabis Opportunities (DACO) | Black Cannabis Week
Jeremy Schwartz
Deputy Director
Office of Cannabis for the City and County of San Francisco
J Dawgert Carlin (they/them)
Dean of the School of Social Sciences, Behavioral Sciences, Ethnic Studies, and Social Justice
City College of San Francisco
Kevin Greene
Vice President
Cleveland School of Cannabis
Mike Lomuto (Moderator)
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Manager
NCIA
Committee Insights | Meet the Minors (Novel, Minor, Synthetic Cannabinoids – Part II)
In this edition of our NCIA Committee Insights series, originally aired on May 11, 2023, we were joined by members of NCIA’s Cannabis Manufacturing, Scientific Advisory and Hemp Committees for an in-depth discussion of the most talked about minor, novel, and synthetic cannabinoids.
What scientific publications exist for each compound? What do we know about each molecule’s physiological, psychoactive, and therapeutic effects?
You’ll find out during this informative session featuring leading chemical experts, manufacturers and product development specialists. Along with audience members they explored these compounds from various perspectives to examine their implications for consumers, medical practitioners, patients, producers and regulators.
Learning Objectives:
• Molecular Structures and Identification of novel, minor, and synthetic compounds
• Published Physiological and Psychoactive effects of these compounds
• Perceived therapeutic effects
• Opportunity to ask about other new compounds not in presentation.
From Lab to Label: Safeguarding Consumers in the Cannabinoid Product Landscape (Part III): https://bit.ly/3Xc9Lx6
Know Your Hazards – Occupational Health and Safety Considerations in Cannabinoid Ingredient Manufacturing (Part IV): https://bit.ly/3rEUeKP
Concepts for Regulatory Consideration – Shifting the Conversation from “Cannabis vs. Hemp” to “The Cannabinoids” (Part V): https://bit.ly/3P3r5AW
Catalyst Conversation | 2.22.23 | What’s Hot for 2023?
NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinar series is our premier digital educational series featuring a variety of interactive programs allowing us to provide you timely, engaging and essential education when you need it most.
NCIA’s Catalyst Conversations series is an advanced webinar series curated to give enrollees in our Social Equity Scholarship program the opportunity to network and gain access to valuable knowledge that will help them excel in the cannabis industry.
Another year, another set of opportunities! Interested in learning more about up and coming opportunities within the cannabis industry?
In this edition of our Catalyst Conversations series originally aired on Wednesday, February 22, you’ll hear from a great panel of industry veterans, as they provide their seasoned take on where they see the industry headed. The purpose of this conversation is to catalyze thought and provide insights into where things are going over the coming months, so that you can:
• Identify potential opportunities that your business can capitalize on
• Expand your understanding of the current state of the cannabis industry
• Refine your business strategy for the year, and beyond
Whether you’re new to the industry, or have been at it for awhile, join us for this great discussion to level up your staying power in the industry.
Speakers:
Mike Lomuto
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager
NCIA
Catalyst Conversations | 2.21.23 | Gain an Edge and Make an Impact – Community Benefit Agreements
NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinar series is our premier digital educational series featuring a variety of interactive programs allowing us to provide you timely, engaging and essential education when you need it most.
NCIA’s Catalyst Conversations series is an advanced webinar series curated to give enrollees in our Social Equity Scholarship program the opportunity to network and gain access to valuable knowledge that will help them excel in the cannabis industry.
In this edition of our Catalyst Conversations series originally aired on Tuesday, February 21, we hosted a dynamic and practical conversation with members of NCIA’s Retail Committee, alongside cannabis industry leaders based in Chicago – Doug and Gary – surrounding the importance of businesses collaborating with community members, and how to create mutually beneficial partnerships between communities & businesses through community benefit agreements.
Going through the licensing or permitting process? Trying to figure out how to launch your business model in a municipality that isn’t set up for it yet? Are you operating already, and looking for insights as to how to keep your license or strengthen your business model?
You’re in luck as you’ll leave this conversation with a better understanding of what Community Benefit Agreements (CBA) are, and how they are a necessary component of the licensing and license retention process.
On top of gaining insights into how to develop a CBA that works for your business’ bottom line while also creating community impact you’ll also learn about existing CBA’s and the success we’ve already seen in these early stages.
Panelists:
Mike Lomuto
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager
NCIA
NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinar series is our premier digital educational series featuring a variety of interactive programs allowing us to provide you timely, engaging and essential education when you need it most.
In this edition of our NCIA Committee Insights series, originally aired on December 14 and produced in collaboration by NCIA’s Cannabis Manufacturing Committee, Scientific Advisory Committee and Hemp Committee we introduced and framed the myriad regulatory, scientific, linguistic, and ethical issues that come with the rise of minor, novel, and synthetic cannabinoids.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the role of minor, novel, and synthetic cannabinoids in the cannabis industry and the unique issues relating to their current status.
At the conclusion of the discussion our panel hosted a lengthy moderated Q&A session so our network could get all their burning questions answered by these leading manufacturing, biochemical, and legal professionals from the hemp and cannabis industries.
Panelists:
Scott Seeley
Biochemist and Patent/TM Attorney @Eastgate IP
Cassin Coleman
Founder
Cassin Consulting
Keith Butler
CEO
OP Innovates / Hemp Mellow
Paul Coble
Intellectual Property Attorney
Harris Bricken Sliwoski LLP
There is more to cannabis than THC and CBD. As our understanding (and commercialization) of cannabis evolves, new compounds like CBG, delta-8-THC, THCv, and others are coming onto the scene. These various “minor” cannabinoids, however, bring with them a host of new issues.
Over the next few months this collaboration will continue to explore these issues with various subjects ranging from basic and advanced overviews of these molecules, regulatory recommendations, risk management and compliance concerns all the way to consumer and manufacturer safety. Stay up to date and be the first to know when additional follow-up sessions are scheduled by signing up via the form below.
From Lab to Label: Safeguarding Consumers in the Cannabinoid Product Landscape (Part III): https://bit.ly/3Xc9Lx6
Know Your Hazards – Occupational Health and Safety Considerations in Cannabinoid Ingredient Manufacturing (Part IV): https://bit.ly/3rEUeKP
Concepts for Regulatory Consideration – Shifting the Conversation from “Cannabis vs. Hemp” to “The Cannabinoids” (Part V): https://bit.ly/3P3r5AW
Committee Insights | 11.29 | The Pathway to Greater Equity in New York’s Adult Use Cannabis Market
In this edition of our NCIA Committee Insights series, originally aired on November 29 and produced NCIA’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee, we held a lively discussion to present the official recommendations jointly submitted to the New York Office of Cannabis Management in Fall 2022.
Since early 2022, NCIA and our DEI Committee has been conducting an ongoing roundtable discussion consisting of multiple national and New York based cannabis social equity and industry organizations to assess and provide feedback regarding rules and regulations. We also covered the PIES Program, which is an innovative program that draws on the lessons learned from other states to create a streamlined solution with true DEI front and center.We also covered the PIES Program, which is an innovative program that draws on the lessons learned from other states to create a streamlined solution with true DEI front and center.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn about NCIA’s New York Social Equity Roundtable, a collaboration of multiple National and New York based cannabis social equity and industry organizations
• Gain insights into how New York is rolling out its Adult Use Cannabis market with regards to Social Equity and Justice Involved individuals
• Understand how our recommendations would impact New York’s market if implemented, and Identify opportunities for organizations and the state agency to work collaboratively
Panelists:
Frederika McClary Easley
Director of Strategic Initiatives
The People’s Ecosystem
Scheril Murray Powell, Esq.
Chief Operating Officer
The JUSTÜS Foundation
Maur Stringer
Founder, Owner, CEO
The Magi Tree LLC
Cynthia L. Mompoint
Black and Brown Economic Power in Cannabis
Adrian Adams, Ed.D.
CEO
Ontogen Botanicals
Mike Lomuto (Moderator)
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager
National Cannabis Industry Association
Sponsored By:
Video: NCIA Today – Thursday, January 12, 2023
NCIA Director of Communications Bethany Moore checks in with what’s going on across the country with the National Cannabis Industry Association’s membership, board, allies, and staff. Join us every other Thursday here on Facebook for NCIA Today Live.
Reach thousands of leading cannabis businesses while supporting NCIA’s advocacy work to protect and expand the industry by securing the right sponsorship package for your marketing needs. Contact us at Sponsorship@TheCannabisIndustry.org to learn more
Committee Insights | 12.7.22 | How To Use A Marketing Mindset To Raise Capital For Your Cannabis Company
NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinar series is our premier digital educational series featuring a variety of interactive programs allowing us to provide you timely, engaging and essential education when you need it most.
In this edition of our NCIA Committee Insights series, originally aired on December 7 and produced by NCIA’s Marketing & Advertising Committee, our panel of cannabis finance specialists, leading operators and capital raising experts will guide you through best marketing practices and considerations to deploy when fundraising in the cannabis industry from a marketing perspective.
Learn tips and tricks and do’s and don’ts from marketing pro’s and industry insiders to best position your company to get the attention of investors in the current market conditions just as you’ve done when targeting consumers.
Committee Insights | 6.28.22 | Meet the Cannabis Influencers: Everything You Need to Know About Influencer Marketing
NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinar series is our premier digital educational series featuring a variety of interactive programs allowing us to provide you timely, engaging and essential education when you need it most.
Got questions about how influencer marketing can help your cannabis brand? Interested in working with a cannabis influencer but don’t know how?
You’ll get all your questions answered in this edition of our NCIA Committee Insights series originally aired on Tuesday, June 28, 2022 in which members of NCIA’s Marketing & Advertising Committee convened an all-star panel of innovative influencers who’ve worked with the cannabis industry’s leading brands.
Tune in to the conversation featuring moderator Allison Disney as she speaks with the amazing Alice Moon, Shayda Torabi, and Monica Lo to discuss how to reach and engage cannabis users with original branded content.
What You’ll Learn:
WHY influencer marketing should be in your marketing mix
WHO is most influential in cannabis conversations online
WHAT a successful influencer marketing partnership looks like
HOW to engage the right influencer partner(s) for your brand
Committee Insights | Setting the Stage: Minor, Novel, and Synthetic Cannabinoids
There is more to cannabis than THC and CBD. As our understanding (and commercialization) of cannabis evolves, new compounds like CBG, delta-8-THC, THCv, and others are coming onto the scene. These various “minor” cannabinoids, however, bring with them a host of new issues.
NCIA’s Cannabis Manufacturing Committee, Scientific Advisory Committee and Hemp Committee are all collaborating on a series of #IndustryEssentials webinars over the next few months which will explore these issues with various subjects ranging from basic and advanced overviews of these molecules, regulatory recommendations, risk management and compliance concerns all the way to consumer and manufacturer safety.
To kick off this series we’re showcasing an initial session taking place on Wednesday, December, 14th at 3PM ET / 12PM PT introducing and framing the myriad regulatory, scientific, linguistic, and ethical issues that come with the rise of minor, novel, and synthetic cannabinoids.
But before we get started … Acquire the foundational knowledge needed to dive deep into this session by watching this introductory video on Minor, Novel and Synthetic Cannabinoids.
During this brief 15-minute presentation our panelists Scott Seeley of Eastgate IP and James Granger of Clear Cannabis Inc, both members of NCIA’s Cannabis Manufacturing Committee, will walk you through the categories of compounds, outside of the commonly known big two – THC and CBD, and explain what is known about these compounds along with what the industry can do to move forward to provide safe products to consumers.
Service Solutions | 10.26.22 | Show Me the Money – The Current State of Cannabis Lending
NCIA’s Service Solutions series is our sponsored content webinar program which allows business owners the opportunity to learn more about premier products, services and industry solutions directly from our network of established suppliers, providers and thought leaders.
In this edition originally aired on Wednesday, October 26, 2022 we were joined by the experts from cannabis-focused financial institutions FundCanna, Safe Harbor Financial, and AVANA Companies to dive deep into the current state of cannabis lending with leading industry journalist John Schroyer of Green Market Report.
A decade after California and Colorado became the first adult use states, the regulated U.S. cannabis market encompasses over 70,000 cannabis-related businesses. Shockingly, most of those businesses still lack easy access to debt and other forms of growth and operating capital. From federal prohibitions and the impact of IRS regulation 280e, to state and local taxation issues, the costs of operating a regulated cannabis company continue to remain nearly unendurable.
Learn what may change in the coming six to 12 months so you’ll know how to access debt capital most cost-effectively in this ever evolving environment. No matter your place in the industry or the supply chain from cultivators, manufacturers, vendors, suppliers, distributors and retailers this conversation will provide the insights to meet your financial needs.
At the conclusion of the discussion our panel hosted a moderated Q&A session to provide NCIA members an opportunity to interact with leading minds from the financial services space, join today to contribute to future conversations!
Panelists:
Adam Stettner
Founder & CEO
FundCanna
Sundie Seefried
Founder and CEO
Safe Harbor Financial
02:13 – Equity vs. Debt: With equity dried up, should cannabis companies be looking at debt financing to grow now?
07:28 – Equity vs. Debt: What do borrowers need to do before approaching a debt provider (vs. an equity provider)?
13:25 – Equity vs. Debt: What can cannabis companies or entrepreneurs do to improve their overall credit worthiness prior to seeking capital?
17:16 – How has the interest rate increases by the Federal Reserve impacted capital markets (and the industry at large) in 2022?
26:07 – Audience Q&A: “If there’s “no reason not to have banking” for your cannabis business how can I easily (and inexpensively) establish and maintain a compliant bank account?”
28:56 – Lending: What significant lending challenges are your clients currently facing within the industry?
33:56 – Lending: What advice can you provide business owners for evaluating lenders that you should (or shouldn’t) work with and tips for avoiding predatory lending practices?
39:05 – Cannabis Reform: What impact do you expect President Biden’s recent announcement will have on the industry?
49:32 – Audience Q&A: “Are your financial institutions planning to offer lending and banking services in New York, New Jersey and other new markets?”
51:42 – Audience Q&A: “With the mindset of “Investors are betting on the Jockey not the Horse.” What type of CEO or founding team would be a red flag or not a viable investment?”
55:19 – Audience Q&A: “How can I start to shift my retail company from being primarily a cash-only business?”
1:05:03 – NCIA Member Appreciation Credit Sequence
Sponsored By:
Service Solutions | 9.27.22 | The Devil is in the Details: Claiming Your Employee Retention Credit as a Cannabis Business
NCIA’s Service Solutions series is our sponsored content webinar program which allows business owners the opportunity to learn more about premier products, services and industry solutions directly from our network of established suppliers, providers and thought leaders.
In this edition originally aired on Tuesday, September 27, 2022 we were joined by the experts from ERT Credit for an exclusive webinar outlining how cannabis businesses can take advantage of The Employee Tax Credit (or ERC) which has currently only been claimed by a small fraction of cannabis businesses, and most importantly, as a payroll tax credit is not subject to Section 280E.
Think your cannabis-related business does not qualify for COVID-19 relief funds worth up to $26,000 per employee.? You’ll leave the session with a roadmap for next steps to determine eligibility and maximize your claim so you don’t miss out on a potentially guaranteed refund worth hundreds of thousands of dollars and in some cases millions.
At the conclusion of the discussion our panel hosted a moderated Q&A session to provide NCIA members an opportunity to interact with leading minds from the cannabis accounting and technology space, join today to contribute to future conversations!
40:46 – Audience Q&A (If your business is still operating – what are the taxes due on the tax credit?)
42:04 – Audience Q&A (I was told that ERC money is not available for the cannabis industry due to 280e. How are you navigating that compared to others trying to provide the same services?)
44:31 – Audience Q&A (Does this apply to cultivation facilities also?)
46:42 – Audience Q&A (What if we apply and don’t receive our money or we are denied the credit?)
48:09 – Audience Q&A (What if my accountant/lawyer says I don’t qualify?)
49:41 – Audience Q&A (How can I find more details on how to navigate the 280e concerns?)
50:58 – Audience Q&A (So if you went out of business before or soon after getting the tax credit you would not have any (or minimal) tax impact from taking the tax credit?)
53:24 – Audience Q&A (Do I have to spend the money on my payroll? Or can I use it towards my other business expenses? Any other restrictions?) 54:26 – Audience Q&A (So is this a credit for my company towards next year or do I get an actual check like a refund?)
01:05:28 – NCIA Lobby Days 2023 Member Appreciation
Sponsored By:
Committee Insights | 9.28.22 | Cannabis Ballot Initiatives in the November 2022 Election
In this edition of our NCIA Committee Insights series originally aired on Wednesday, September 28, 2022 members of NCIA’s State Regulations Committee convened a panel of government affairs, business development and licensing experts for an in-depth discussion focusing on cannabis ballot initiatives up for a vote this coming November.
They provided a detailed overview on the status of each campaign so that you’ll learn how best to position yourself for success and what you can do to help push these efforts across the finish line. If you’re considering business Arkansas, Maryland, Missouri either of the Dakotas then this session is specifically geared for you.
At the conclusion of the discussion they hosted a moderated Q&A session to provide NCIA members an opportunity to interact with leading minds from the cannabis regulatory and licensing space, join today to contribute to future conversations!
Learning Objectives:
• Provide practical information to NCIA members about the cannabis ballot initiatives and potential new business opportunities.
Sumer Thomas
Director of Regulatory Operations
Canna Advisor
Nicola Batten
CEO & Founder
koLaB Consulting
Larry Luksha
Government Relations & Business Development
Veritec Solutions
Joseph Smith
Senior Managing Associate
Thompson Hine LLP
Service Solutions | 9.21.22 | Does Your Video Surveillance Monitoring Method Put Your Business at Risk?
NCIA’s Service Solutions series is our sponsored content webinar program which allows business owners the opportunity to learn more about premier products, services and industry solutions directly from our network of established suppliers, providers and thought leaders.
In this edition originally aired on Wednesday, September 21, 2022 we were joined by the experts from Netwatch North America and Sapphire Risk Advisory Group to discuss the stark differences between the most common methods businesses choose for video monitoring to clear up the confusion about the best method for your type of business.
Every business needs a video surveillance system to guarantee the security of its premises and improve business operations. As a high-risk industry, cannabis businesses have an even greater need for these systems. Cultivation facilities, processing labs, and dispensaries are high-value targets for potential criminals due to the large amounts of currency and cannabis products stored on-site.
In addition, these systems are necessary to remain compliant with local or state law. However, while regulations require cannabis businesses to equip their facilities with a functioning video surveillance system, regulations can be less restrictive about how these systems are monitored. Yet, the method of video monitoring chosen can determine how effective the business can be at reducing and preventing criminal activity.
You’ll leave the program with a roadmap for next steps to take to evaluate the methods currently in place, how best to conduct an assessment and implement new systems to ensure the security of your business AND the safety of your employees.
In this session, you will learn:
• What are the most common video monitoring methods for cannabis businesses?
• How does each method monitor, detect unauthorized activity, and comply with canna regulations?
• What is the best option for your type of business?
41:30 – Audience Q&A (When should I reach out to a PVM company during the cannabis business planning process?)
43:29 – Audience Q&A (What VMS systems does Netwatch currently integrate with?)
44:45 – Audience Q&A (Do insurance companies reward operators for proactive video? Is activity reporting for proactive surveillance a regulatory requirement in MA or other jurisdictions?)
46:42 – Audience Q&A (How does working with a security company like Sapphire help to save my company money?)
48:26 – Audience Q&A (How important and common are camera analytics in the industry?)
52:09 – Audience Q&A (Should I choose the security integrator/manufacturer to work with first or my video monitoring method?)
54:39 – Audience Q&A (How do you get in touch with a risk consultant?)
55:50 – Final Thoughts & Upcoming Events w/ Netwatch & Sapphire Risk Advisory Group
Committee Insights | 8.16.22 | Cannabis Consumption Lounges & the Next Wave of Hospitality Disruption
In this edition of our NCIA Committee Insights series originally aired on Tuesday, August 23, 2022 members of Risk Management & Insurance Committee convened a panel of cannabis regulators and legal experts alongside leading event and hospitality operators to provide cannabusiness professionals the inside scoop on new regulations being adopted to manage/establish cannabis consumption establishments.
Dive deep into the ins & outs of Michigan’s cutting edge regulatory structure and learn from those operating in the space across the country with our panel of experts.
Learning Objectives
• Review of leading edge regulatory framework providing a model for MI consumption lounges
• Highlight the license structure for temporary events – how do consumption, sales and/or both formats function within this framework?
• How have these regulations evolved since first adoption?
• Review dram shop liability and offer an educationally lensed analysis
• Discuss how that may or may not be a good framework to apply to cannabis?
Service Solutions: Taking Your Profits Higher – Navigating the Maze of Cannabis Marketing
NCIA’s Service Solutions series is our sponsored content webinar program which allows business owners the opportunity to learn more about premier products, services and industry solutions directly from our network of established suppliers, providers and thought leaders.
In this edition originally aired on Wednesday, July 20, 2022 we were joined by Fox Rothschild LLP whose national cannabis team discussed discussed how agencies and companies can comply when marketing products.
A successful business relies on marketing and advertising to grow and bring in new customers. But what happens when those promotional efforts are heavily regulated or even restricted? These are questions and hurdles cannabis businesses face, but there are ways to navigate this maze.
04:04 – How is marketing & advertising cannabis different than other industries?
07:45 – How is marketing & advertising for cannabis different from state to state?
13:40 – Are these state restrictions for cannabis OK under the First Amendment and do similar state constitutional free speech protections exist or apply here?
15:25 – Virginia State Board of Pharmacy & Thompson Case
16:26 – Central Hudson Case & The Four-Part Test for Commercial Speech
19:57 – Equal Protection Challenges on the Horizon
26:00 – California Cannabis Consumption Event Permitting Process
31:39 – How is marketing & advertising for hemp-based CBD products different than other industries?
37:28 – What is a curative healthcare claim and how can cannabis (or CBD-based) companies develop creative methods to comply while still distinguishing themselves?
41:40 – What trends and challenges do you see on how cannabis products are being advertised and sold?
Service Solutions | 7.13.22 | Scarcity Shouldn’t be Scary – How to Fund Your Growth
NCIA’s Service Solutions series is our sponsored content webinar program which allows business owners the opportunity to learn more about premier products, services and industry solutions directly from our network of established suppliers, providers and thought leaders.
In this edition originally aired on Wednesday, July 13, 2022 we were joined by e2b Teknologies whose team of leading integration & technology experts discussed some easy steps to prepare your business for funding and accelerated growth. As you all know, competition was stiff for funding prior to 2022 but with the current economy and rising interest rates, capital is much harder to acquire today. You should be taking steps get noticed and get the MONEY you need to grow your business now.
After viewing you’ll walk away with a better understanding of:
• How to leverage a team properly
• What’s most important – It may not be what you think.
• What’s necessary in terms of reporting, compliance, and record-keeping
• Evaluating potential technology partners
Sit back and settle in for an informative and timely program outlining the challenges facing operators and how you can position yourself for success with the right tools to help succeed at scale.
Service Solutions | 6.22.22 | Enforcing Cannabis Contracts with Alternative Dispute Resolution
NCIA’s Service Solutions series is our sponsored content webinar program which allows business owners the opportunity to learn more about premier products, services and industry solutions directly from our network of established suppliers, providers and thought leaders.
In this edition originally aired on Wednesday, June 28, 2022 we were joined by the International Institute for Conflict Prevention and Resolution (CPR) to discuss the benefits of using alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods (including arbitration and mediation) in cannabis contracts, thus bypassing the courts.
The cannabis industry continues to grow rapidly, both in the United States and globally. However, cannabis companies face issues when entering into contracts that they hope to enforce. Because the federal Controlled Substances Act prohibits cannabis sales as a matter of federal law, many courts will not enforce a contract between cannabis companies, even if state law permits the legal sale of cannabis. Therefore, cannabis investors, businesses, and those who do business with them need a tool that makes their contracts enforceable.
Benefits of using ADR methods include greater enforceability plus faster speed to a decision, decision-makers with industry expertise, privacy and confidentiality, and the parties’ ability to create a process to fit specific needs and timelines. Participants will also learn how to include an ADR clause in their contracts, so they can take advantage of these benefits.
Panelists:
Mia Levi
Vice President of Global Development for Dispute Resolution
International Institute for Conflict Prevention and Resolution (CPR)
