Committee Blog: What is Craft Cannabis? Understanding Small-Batch Cultivation and Artisanal Products
What is Craft Cannabis?
Following state legalization and/or decriminalization, it doesn’t take long for dispensaries to be fully stocked with cannabis brands eager to get their products on shelves. Unfortunately, the flood of flower from cultivators that invest early into the new markets quickly turns into a creek as small independent farmers struggle to meet margins to remain profitable. The price per pound of cannabis quickly drops, and many of those hopeful farmers have no other alternative but to sell their business or close down.
Not unlike the alcohol and tobacco industries, some brands are creating a lane for themselves by differentiating their product as Craft or Artisanal.
Industry Comparison – Craft Beer
We can look to cannabis’ distant cousin, hops, to get a taste of what it means to have a successful craft market alongside thriving value products like domestic beer. According to the Brewer’s Association, a non-profit trade association of craft brewers, a brewer is considered craft if they meet the definitions for “small” and “independent” listed below:
Small: Annual production of 6 million barrels of beer or less (approximately 3 percent of U.S. annual sales). Beer production is attributed to a brewer according to rules of alternating proprietorships.
Independent: Less than 25 percent of the craft brewery is owned or controlled (or equivalent economic interest) by a beverage alcohol industry member that is not itself a craft brewer.
In short, craft brewers measure production throughput and ownership share to be considered craft. Some argue that the 25% ownership plays the biggest role in the success of a craft brand since even a smaller stake in ownership from a large corporation could give them enough capital to outcompete their non-corporate funded counterparts.
Can similar qualifiers be applied to cannabis cultivation and manufacturing?
Putting the Craft in Craft Cannabis
Unlike its distant alcoholic relative, cannabis is used to produce more than one type of product. While the most common craft product is flower, it can also be extended through the manufacturing process to make edibles, pre-rolls, tinctures, and more.
The process of cannabis cultivation and manufacturing is far more complex to narrow the craft definition to just the final weight of the yield. For flower alone, multiple variables are considered when defining craft—lot size, total yield, harvesting techniques, pest control solutions—just to name a few.
California has taken an impactful step forward by introducing the Cannabis Appellations Program to the cannabis industry. “An appellation of origin is a protected designation that identifies the geographical origin of a product and typically includes production requirements.” The most common use of appellations are in the wine (true Champagne must come from grapes grown in the province of Champagne, France) and coffee industries.
Craft Cannabis Webinar Series
Consumers play the largest role in the success of a cannabis brand and, with the help of small business advocates like NCIA, are now learning about the smaller craft cannabis brands available in their state. So then, what does it mean when your jar of fresh flower says “Craft Cannabis” on the label? What and who defines the craft? What does this new appellation program mean for craft cultivators? How can consumers and retailers support these specialized brands?
As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, staying informed about the latest trends and insights is crucial. To keep up with everything happening in the world of craft cannabis and beyond, we encourage you to follow us on LinkedIn for updates, event announcements, and industry discussions. Join our community on LinkedIn today!
Don’t miss out on valuable information—sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest news, resources, and event updates straight to your inbox. Stay ahead of the curve and be part of the growing cannabis community. Sign up for NCIA’s newsletter here!
We look forward to keeping you informed and engaged with the best in the cannabis industry!
Member Blog: Maximizing Success in the Cannabis Industry – Unpacking Market Maturity and Strategic Approaches
The cannabis industry is evolving faster than ever, with new markets opening up and existing ones maturing. But how do you know if your state is primed for growth or if you’re navigating an already saturated market? To thrive, it’s essential to understand where your state sits on the legalization journey and what strategic actions can drive success.
Join us for an insightful webinar hosted by the National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA) in collaboration with CannaSpyglass and featuring expert insights from Apex Trading and CannMenus. This session, titled “Service Solutions: Mastering Data-Driven Success in the Cannabis Industry,” will dive into key factors that shape success in emerging and mature cannabis markets. Below, you’ll get a sneak peek at what we’ll cover on November 13th, 2024, at 3:00 PM ET.
Key Market Phases: Understanding Your State’s Trajectory
Cannabis markets in the U.S. generally fall into three categories: Upcoming, Emerging, and Mature. Each stage comes with unique regulatory landscapes, market opportunities, and challenges. Let’s break down what each phase means and how it could impact your business:
Upcoming Markets These states are in the early stages of cannabis legalization, often focusing on medical use with limited licenses. Examples include Kentucky and Minnesota, where medical programs are being established, with retail sales anticipated by early 2025. In these states, early movers can seize vendor partnerships and establish consumer trust before the market becomes crowded.
Emerging Markets States like New Jersey and Ohio represent active markets where licenses are increasingly accessible. Businesses here benefit from expanding consumer bases and opportunities for new entrants, with regulated sales expected to soar—New Jersey alone anticipates over $1 billion in sales by the end of 2024. Emerging markets are excellent grounds for growth but demand a keen focus on compliance and adapting to evolving regulations.
Mature Markets In established states like California and Colorado, competition is fierce, and margins can be tight. While new licenses may be limited, these markets allow opportunities for mergers, acquisitions, and refined operations. Mature markets also provide a roadmap for price trends and consumer demand shifts, valuable lessons for businesses in newer markets.
Navigating the Hype Cycle: The Influential Role of Market Dynamics
Whether you’re in an upcoming or mature market, the factors that influence success go beyond the legalization timeline. During the webinar, our panel will address the critical elements of the cannabis hype cycle and discuss how they influence market dynamics:
License Caps & Moratoriums: Limited vs. unlimited license markets can dictate competition levels and growth rates.
Compliance Requirements: From rigorous inspections to video surveillance mandates, compliance can impact operational costs and scalability.
Municipal Guidelines: Local opt-outs and license restrictions affect market density and accessibility for consumers.
Social Equity Programs: Equity initiatives can provide critical opportunities or barriers, depending on your status and location.
Multi-State Operators (MSOs): In certain states, MSOs dominate, creating competitive challenges and setting high standards for new entrants.
Seizing Opportunities in Each Market Phase
For cannabis businesses, each market phase offers opportunities and hurdles. Here’s a quick look at how each stage requires tailored strategies:
Upcoming Markets: These markets present chances for early partnerships and brand establishment. Vendors here are in high demand as businesses prepare for retail launches.
Emerging Markets: Building a loyal customer base and securing real estate can be pivotal as more operators enter. For cultivators, planning for price declines is critical.
Mature Markets: Efficiency is paramount. Businesses must focus on lowering production costs and exploring niche segments to sustain profitability amidst tightening margins.
Webinar Takeaways: Empowering Cannabis Business Leaders with Data-Driven Insights
This session won’t be just an industry overview; it will provide you with a roadmap for actionable insights. Attendees will walk away with:
Understanding of Your Market’s Position in the Maturity Cycle: Learn where your state stands and what challenges or opportunities lie ahead.
Strategic Tips for Each Market Stage: Discover tailored approaches for upcoming, emerging, and mature markets.
Insights into Regulatory Impacts: Gain a thorough understanding of how license caps, compliance, and social equity affect the industry.
This is an unmissable opportunity for cannabis entrepreneurs and stakeholders to elevate their knowledge and drive data-driven success. Register nowto join NCIA, CannaSpyglass, Apex Trading, and CannMenus on November13th for a webinar that promises to reshape your approach to cannabis market strategy.
Breaking Down the Recent Cannabis Rescheduling Recommendation
For more than fifty years, the federal government has maintained that cannabis is a Schedule I drug, meaning that it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical value. That changed last week (somewhat) when the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recommended to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) that cannabis be placed in Schedule III, meaning that it has moderate to low abuse potential, a currently accepted medical use, and a low potential for psychological dependence.
Why now?
In October 2022, the Biden Administration announced that it would ask the Secretary of HHS and the Attorney General to initiate the administrative process to review expeditiously how marijuana is scheduled under federal law. As the Brookings Institute outlined years ago, the Executive process for rescheduling is much more complex than the Legislative path.
It’s no secret that the presidential election is barely more than a year away, and the President seems to be looking to make good on his campaign promise to reform the nation’s marijuana laws.
What does this mean?
First off, it’s critical to note that HHS’ recommendation to DEA is just that: a recommendation. It is non-binding. The DEA may come to the same conclusion that HHS did, but is not required to.
If cannabis is moved to Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act, one positive outcome would be that 280E would no longer apply to plant-touching businesses, removing an incredibly punitive and debilitating provision in the tax code.
According to NCIA’s board chair emeritus, Khurshid Khoja, Esq., “…it’s important to remember that rescheduling would not apply the federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act (FDCA) to marijuana for the first time—it applies right now, and like the federal Controlled Substances Act (CSA), would continue to apply after rescheduling. But absent any statutory authority permitting FDA to do otherwise, the FDCA would continue to apply after descheduling too, just as it does to hemp products.”
Others claim that the shift to Schedule III would have minimal impact on businesses and individuals. Here at NCIA, we’re cautiously optimistic but recognize that moving cannabis to schedule III could have some limited benefit but does nothing to align federal law with the 38 U.S. states which have already effectively regulated cannabis for medical or adult use.
What now?
Now that HHS has made their recommendation, the DEA will begin its scheduling review process.
Many are divided about what a move to Schedule III would actually look like. Yes, there would be the elimination of 280E, but what about enforcement priorities? Interstate commerce? Criminal penalties? There are so many unknowns.
NCIA has previously produced a common sense, workable roadmap for that federal comprehensive reform and provided detailed feedback on legislative efforts. It is time for Congress to follow the will of the American people. Don’t get me wrong, there’s no doubt that this recommendation is a step in the right direction and is long overdue. But we can’t lose sight of the ultimate goal: removing cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act entirely.
Have questions?
Join NCIA on September 14 at 1 pm ET for an engaging webinar where we will unpack all your questions! Register today and don’t miss your chance to hear more about what this means for the cannabis industry and your business.
Adapting to New Economic Realities | 8.1.23 | Service Solutions
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, August 1, 2023 we were joined by Jason Laronde of Vitalis Extraction Technology and special guest Mark Webb (passionate chemist, educator, and extraction specialist better known as The Aroma Science Guy and ) for a session about one of today’s most impactful, yet often misunderstood, solutions for rising production costs: cosolvent extraction using CO₂ and small, metered volumes of ethanol.
Making cannabis products is basically like printing money, right? Well… Maybe in the past. Today, cannabis is bound by the fundamentals of business. The old ways of processing are often too expensive amid rising competition and price compression. In this more mature market, every penny matters. So with extraction and downstream refinement being among the highest operating costs producers face, it’s vital to get things right.
Learn how this novel application of a time-tested process can streamline your operation, improve your profitability, and help you maintain the consistent product quality your customers expect.
Learning Objectives:
• Summarize the economic evolution of the legal cannabis manufacturing industry and the resulting impacts on today’s producers.
• Explain the drawbacks of different solvent extraction methodologies as they relate to a cannabis manufacturer’s operation and bottom line.
• Describe the advantages of using CO₂ extraction with small amounts of ethanol as a cosolvent in cannabis manufacturing.
Panelists:
Jason Laronde
Sales Manager
Vitalis Extraction Technology Inc.
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
Safeguarding Consumers in the Cannabinoid Product Landscape (Part III):
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 | 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.
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: 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)
NCIA Deputy 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 Friday here on Facebook for NCIA Today Live.
Announcing The Top 8 Finalists | Best of 4/20 Marketing Campaigns
In a year that has tested everyone’s resilience, our industry found new legitimacy as cannabis was deemed “essential” by lawmakers and regulators during the pandemic. As we slowly emerge from a shut down, the members of the Marketing & Advertising Committee (MAC) all agreed that 4/20 celebrations have brought a new meaning in 2021.
We celebrate that we have survived, and grieve for those who have lost so much.
We celebrate that cannabis legalization has moved forward – and rapidly – in several more states.
We celebrate that our industry continues to adapt so well, as it has throughout the last few decades.
Part of that celebration was reflected in clever and innovative 4/20 promotions. Of course, they were executed under CDC and county health guidelines because we know compliance, don’t we? Several NCIA member retailers, brands, and companies rose to the occasion, and we as marketers wanted to recognize that creativity and ingenuity. So, this year NCIA’s MAC committee asked for nominations for the best 420 Marketing Campaigns…and our members did not fail to deliver!
On Tuesday, May 5th, 2021 at 3:00PM EDT, NCIA’S MAC committee will recognize and showcase several of those marketing successes in our #IndustryEssentials Best Of 4/20 Marketing Campaigns celebration webinar. And, in a twist, we’re letting YOU decide who is the best of the best!
We’ve collected dozens of incredible entries and have boiled it down to EIGHT finalists to showcase during the broadcast. Congratulations to our finalists!
NCIA members will vote live to determine the top three. You won’t want to miss this interactive program featuring the best and brightest minds in the marketing space sharing each other’s most successful strategies surrounding the biggest retail day (and year) for our industry.
Here is a quick overview of the finalists (in no particular order):
Rebelle’s 4/20 Series began with a campaign to petition Governor Cuomo in New York to legalize cannabis. CGP ran a series of billboards around New York in high traffic areas and another at the entrance of the Lincoln tunnel. Finally, CGP conspicuously placed a billboard in Albany with the hopes of gaining attention from the Governor. This campaign was done with the help of Verdes, a design agency who has worked with the likes of Nike and Target. The messaging was loud and clear: “Legalize Loud, Legalize New York, Legalize Now”, “New York Wants All The Smoke”, “I (Pot Leaf) NY”. Their team banded together with the creation of personal Instagram accounts that coordinated messages daily, highlighting the inequities and harm done by the prior war on drugs. Billboards were highlighted on news channels in Brooklyn and Albany.
The loud billboards must have worked. Once legalization passed in New York, messaging shifted gears. The next round of ads debuted April 20th on the NASDAQ Billboard in Times Square. This time, it’s a message of celebration: “Happy 420”, “Let’s Get Loud”, “Let’s Rebelle”. After their 420 moment, Rebelle celebrated NY legalization 4/20 it’s first ever Rebelle 420 party at an outdoor restaurant patio location, Ten Hope in Brooklyn.
Golden State Greens was back at it again with it’s first in-person event since Covid labeled “4/20 Social.” Just like an ice cream social, attendees were able to mingle and munch safely distanced outside while listening to their favorite local and international artists. A list of top vendors displayed and gave away products to the lucky guests meeting friends in various hospitality areas. A series of social media posts leading up to the event encouraged followers to share with their friends by rewarding customers with in-store incentives. A group of media teams documented, captured, streamed and produced a recap of the event. A series of well known influencers hosted on stage and in front of the camera to guide guests/digital viewers through the experience. Massive discounts were given storewide and a percentage of all the proceeds for the day were donated to the charity our social following determined through their voice in voting.
In 2020, the year when 4/20 was an entire month, Higher Celebrations, an ancillary cannabis gifting company introduced the Dabvent Calendar, an epic month-long countdown to the most recognized cannabis holiday of the year. The Dabvent Calendar gathered 20 brands and 20 Instagram cannabis influencers to partake in a collaborative giveaway that honors every day in April as we do in December while counting down the days until Christmas. A nod to the classic Advent Calendar, the Dabvent Calendar contained daily elements of surprise and delight revealed by popular cannabis influencers such as @Chronicalewinsky (46K Followers) and @Bettykrockerbakes (21K Followers) leading up to the 20th. The physical calendars were gifted to influencers, including small products or swag items representing each major 420 Daily Giveaway that was announced by Higher Celebrations every day at 4:20 MST.
Edibles manufacturer WANA planned a series of activities that incorporate fun, pandemic-safe celebrations as well as opportunities to support the social justice causes brought to the forefront during last summer’s consciousness-raising demonstrations. #4ward20 reflects on the challenges of the past year while embracing the optimism on the horizon. In addition to consumer activities, #4ward20 honored dispensary partners by sharing special gifts with the essential workers who have kept the industry going throughout the pandemic.
Leading up to April 20, Wana Brands released a daily #4ward20 Challenge, providing ideas on ways individuals can celebrate each and every day. Ideas ranged from the silly (“get dressed up, even if it is just to feel good at home”) to the socially minded (“go on a distanced walk with a friend”) to the philanthropic (“donate money or time to a social equity organization”). Consumers were encouraged to share their activities by posting photos and videos to social media sites with the hashtag #4ward20 and tagging Wana Brands for a chance to win limited-edition #4ward20 swag.
This year on 4/20, the brand hosted Glass House Fest, a socially distanced hybrid digital-and-in-person music festival held at a secret location in LA featuring critically acclaimed rapper and producer, Flying Lotus along with supporting performers including Duckwrth and comedian Mike E Winfield.
The event included a fully immersive, virtual cannabis greenhouse experience, featuring interactive elements and a discount easter egg redeemable in the store’s merch shop. Glass House Fest was hosted live and in accordance with CDC guidelines, as well as virtually through the event livestream. Live music and cannabis experiences have historically gone hand in hand. Glass House Fest was developed to bring back a sense of normalcy to their customers’ everyday lives, and the hybrid event could serve as a blueprint for future industry activations.
Green Thumb Industries and its Rise dispensaries celebrated with their “Year of Essential” 4/20 campaign full of in-store activations, promotions, giveaways and paid media.
Each location was highly decorated with posters, 180 feet of pennant strings, flags, welcome mats, floor decals to help maintain social distancing and large wrapped bongs. There were price promotions in every market the entire month of April.
Traditionally, paper is the first wedding anniversary gift. To celebrate the first “year of essential”, Rise locations in Illinois, Maryland, Nevada and Florida gifted customers with rolling paper and copies of Lizzie Post’s “Higher Etiquette” and Lizzie hosted a GTI/Rise livestream event on April 19 at 4:20pm. Lizzie Post is the great-great granddaughter of etiquette legend Emily Post who 100 years ago wrote the book “Modern Manners”. The discussion centered on respect for cannabis culture to help usher in a new 4/20, and Lizzie shared tips on “canna-courtesy.” There were prizes and incentives for staff as well. The “Year of Essential” is a positive reminder that self-care and well-being are of utmost importance.
To kick off the week of 4/20, PLUS hosted “Waking + Baking: Cannabis Cooking Class and Dance Party,” a free virtual cannabis cooking class and dance party featuring a one-on-one interview with PLUS Chief Science Officer, Ari Mackler. The live cannabis brunch party was hosted and produced by Michelle Lhooq (@MichelleLhooq), a popular and respected LA-based cannabis journalist and author.
Viewers started off their lazy Sunday morning with a cooking class led by PLUS’ Research and Design team learning how to bake hash-infused scones and marmalades using PLUS’ Hash Gummies as the main ingredient. Registration for the event came with a discount code on PLUS gummies to entice viewers to purchase Hash Gummies for use in the cooking class.
Considering 4/20 landed on a Tuesday, PLUS chose a Sunday to offer those who may not be able to celebrate cannabis mid-week the chance to honor its history on the quietest day of the week. It brought together the community for some lighthearted fun after a year of pandemic-related stress.
As a fun way to celebrate 4/20 at home, Nugg Club engaged cannabis enthusiasts through a virtual and immersive experience that was accessed via nuggclub.com/420 (which started live on 4/15). Along with their 4/20 Home Edition Nugg Club box, members were invited to the site to enjoy curated selections of cannabis inspired by music, art, and deals from local restaurants to curb the munchies.
Nugg Club is a subscription cannabis club and helps anyone explore the world of cannabis at a discount. The company surprises consumers each month with a box of full-sized, premium cannabis products that are carefully curated and personalized for each customer and delivered at a wholesale price. The 4/20 box was a specialized tailored edition of that box.
All of the entries were terrific, and it was challenging to narrow the field to only eight (8). Your input and votes will determine the “People’s Choice” winners of the best of 4/20.
We are a resilient industry, and about to emerge into a new post-pandemic environment.
Please join us to celebrate epic marketing in a year of uncertainty and change. Register now and join us on May 5th!
We would also like to extend a big THANK YOU to everyone who submitted entries, and offer Honorable Mentions to all of these companies for their efforts!
Webinar Recording: NCIA Committee Insights – What’s Going On With Social Equity In Illinois?
In case you missed it, watch the recording of this webinar from Wednesday, July 15, 2020.
NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinars are our weekly educational series featuring a variety of programs allowing us to provide you timely, engaging and essential education when & where you need it most. The NCIA Committee Insights series showcases content produced in partnership with one of our 15 member-led committees.
? What has taken Illinois so long to announce its first round of Social Equity license winners?
? When Illinois legalized Adult Use on January 1st of this year, it announced itself as a national leader in the fight for Social Equity.
? Is it making the impact it set out to in communities Disproportionately Impacted by the War on Drugs?
Find out directly from stakeholders in Illinois how the program has or hasn’t been working. How will the failings and successes in Illinois thus far impact other Social Equity programs around the nation?
Members of NCIA’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and Special Guests from the Chicago Community spoke on the subject, including:
⭐️ Tahir Johnson, Business Development Manager, National Cannabis Industry Association (Moderator)
⭐️ Christine de la Rosa, CEO & National Co-Founder, The People’s Dispensary
⭐️ Mike Lomuto, Co-Founder, Boost
⭐️ Mark Slaugh, Founder, iComply
⭐️ Rev. Anibal Vega, Social Equity Partner, The People Dispensary Chicago
⭐️ Ron Holmes, Co-Founder, Majority-Minority Group
⭐️ Kay Villamin, Co-founder & Creative Marketing Director, Hush Chicago
⭐️ Michael Malcolm, Founder & Cannabis Consultant, WTF Media; Social Equity Applicant – Chicago
#IndustryEssentials Webinar Recording – Policy Council Conversations: Interstate Commerce – Environmental, Economic, and Social Equity Implications
In this edition of our Policy Council Conversations series originally aired on Wednesday, August 12, 2020 panelists discuss the findings of NCIA’s white paper on interstate commerce.
What happens when a state like New York decides to legalize? New York has traditionally imported its cannabis from the west coast through the illicit market, and with a population of nearly 20 million people, it’s unclear how the state could grow all the cannabis it would need to supply a legal market without massive infrastructure and environmental costs.
NCIA’s Policy Council and State Regulations Committee have just wrapped up a blog series and white paper around interstate commerce. This webinar will discuss what the participants in that effort learned from their work. We’ll examine the movement to begin legal cannabis commerce between states, starting with the 2019 bill passed in Oregon followed shortly after by the The State Cannabis Commerce Act of 2019 introduced in Congress. We’ll also discuss how allowing interstate commerce will be better for the environment and patients/consumers, will undercut the illicit market, and will boost an industry that struggles to survive within the confines of state borders.
Learning objectives: • Why interstate commerce makes sense environmentally and economically • How patients/consumers would benefit from interstate commerce • Ways that interstate commerce could potentially be used in a social equity model • How to successfully lobby for an interstate commerce bill in your state
Panelists:
Rachel Kurtz-McAlaine
Deputy Director of Public Policy
National Cannabis Industry Association
Adam Smith
Founder and Director
Craft Cannabis Alliance
Gabe Cross
Odyssey Distribution
Shanita Penny
Odyssey Distribution
#IndustryEssentials Webinar Recording – Service Solutions: Get Connected – Exploring the newest NCIA Member Benefit
In this edition of our Service Solutions series originally aired on Wednesday, August 5, 2020 NCIA staff gave an overview of our online community, NCIA Connect.
In Summer 2020 NCIA rolled out an exciting new member benefit: NCIA Connect! NCIA Connect is an online community for NCIA members to engage in thoughtful discussion and learn from other cannabis industry professionals while enjoying exclusive access to important industry resources and members-only content. This webinar includes a guided walk through some of the key features of the platform from members of NCIA’s Business Development, Events, and Marketing teams. Learn more about this new member benefit and find out how it can positively impact your business!
#IndustryEssentials Webinar Recording – NCIA Committee Insights: What are Standards Development Organizations and How Will They Shape Federal and Global Cannabis Policy?
In this edition of our NCIA Committee Insights series originally aired on Wednesday, July 22, 2020 we were joined by members of NCIA’s Scientific Advisory Committee as well as representatives from ASTM International, AOAC, and USP for a discussion on standard development organizations as they relate to cannabis policy.
Up until 1942, the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) published a monograph (a standard specification) for cannabis which was used by physicians across America. The USP is a nonprofit organization that develops compendial quality standards for medicines, food ingredients, and dietary supplements and is recognized by the under law as an official source for standards of drugs. The USP formed a Cannabis Expert Panel in 2016 and they recently published recommendations for quality attributes for cannabis flower. ASTM International and AOAC International have also formed volunteer committees to develop consensus quality standards for cannabis for several years. Certain USP standards are recognized under the Federal Food Drug & Cosmetic Act. Additionally, in accordance with OMB Circular A-119, under certain circumstances the federal government must use voluntary consensus standards, such as those developed by AOAC and ASTM, in lieu of government-unique standards. Therefore, depending on the legal landscape for cannabis, regulators may rely on these standards-development organizations for quality standards for the cannabis industry. In this panel, leaders from relevant standards-development organizations will give updates on the work being done in their cannabis working groups. They will also explain how their work compliments and how you can get involved.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand what standards-development organizations are, and who are the key players in creating quality standards for cannabis. • Learn about the cannabis standards that have been published or are in production. • Learn how to contribute to a standard organization, and what is involved. • Understand the work being done by NCIA, USP, ASTM, AOAC, and other similar groups.
Panelists:
Alena Rodriguez
Managing Director
RM3 Labs
Robert Morgan
Director of Technical Committee Operations
ASTM International
Scott Coates
Senior Director of AOAC Research Institute
Project Lead for AOAC’s CASP Program
Dr. Nandu (Nandakumara) Sarma
Director of Dietary Supplements and Herbal Medicines
USP
Webinar Recording: NCIA Committee Insights – How Can You Get More Engaged With NCIA? Let’s Talk Committees!
Applications for NCIA committees are now open through August 1, 2020!
Committees are the heart of NCIA, and one of the best ways to take advantage of your membership and be an active participant.
As an active committee member you be able to:
Network with other professionals in your issue area
Influence policy
Create content promoted throughout our networks
Raise your visibility
But don’t just take our word for it — hear first hand from the chairs of some of our committees about their experience being on the committee and highlights from this last term.
#IndustryEssentials Webinar Recording – Fireside Chats with NCIA’s Government Relations Team: SAFE Banking – What Will It Take?
In this edition of our Fireside Chats with NCIA’s Government Relations Team originally aired on Wednesday, June 24, 2020 we hosted a conversation surrounding the progress of the SAFE Banking Act with special guest Congressman Ed Perlmutter (D-CO).
The SAFE Banking Act passed the House of Representatives in September 2019 in an overwhelmingly bi-partisan vote of 321-103. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the cannabis industry’s need for financial certainty has become even more pronounced, as cash transactions should be minimized to limit possible exposure to the virus. Although the House of Representatives included SAFE Banking language in its recently passed coronavirus relief package (the HEROES Act), the bill’s fate in the Senate is still uncertain. That leaves many of us asking: what’s the hold up? What will it take to get SAFE over the finish line? Join us as we discuss various options moving forward and what it will take to get this legislation signed into law.
Panelists:
Congressman Ed Perlmutter (D-CO) U.S. House of Representatives
Tanner Daniel Vice President American Bankers Association
Jack Jacobson Advisor Thompson & Coburn LLP
Michael Correia Director of Government Relations National Cannabis Industry Association
Michelle Rutter Friberg Deputy Director of Government Relations National Cannabis Industry Association
#IndustryEssentials Webinar Recording – Policy Council Conversations: Just Say No – Keep the DEA out of Cannabis Research
In this edition of our Policy Council Conversations series originally aired on Wednesday, June 3, 2020 we hosted a conversation surrounding our public comments submitted to the the Drug Enforcement Administration regarding proposed rulemaking on cannabis research.
The Drug Enforcement Administration issued a notice of proposed rulemaking on cannabis research in 2020. If adopted, this rule would fundamentally change how cannabis research is conducted. NCIA submitted public comments, rejecting the DEA’s power grab and strongly suggesting that a public health agency (i.e. Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, etc.) lead on cannabis research. Simultaneously, lawyers at Yetter Coleman filed a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit against DOJ, demanding the release of an OLC memo relied upon by DEA in their rulemaking. That successful suit was brought on behalf of Scottsdale Research Institute. This panel discussed the critical importance of cannabis research, the DEA rulemaking and NCIA’s numerous objections, and the lawsuit against DEA and the resulting disclosure of the DOJ policy memo.
Panelists:
Andrew Kline
Director of Public Policy
National Cannabis Industry Association
Jodi Avergun
Chair, White Collar and Criminal Defense and Investigations Group, Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP
Former Chief of Staff, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
Sue Sisley, MD
Principal Investigator
Scottsdale Research Institute
In this edition of our NCIA Committee Insights series originally aired on Wednesday June 3, 2020 we were joined by members of NCIA’s Scientific Advisory Committee for a thorough discussion on label claims.
Panelists discussed how label claims came to be, what they look like in sister industries, and why label claims are important for cannabis products. Attendees will leave with a thorough understanding of what drug labels look like, what food labels look like, and why cannabis labels are different. A review of state based regulatory requirements and why they matter was also provided.
Panelists:
Tiffany Coleman Director of Quality Copperstate Farms Management
In this edition of our NCIA Committee Insights series originally aired on Monday, June 1 we were joined by members of NCIA’s Retail Committee for a discussion highlighting best practices in cannabis retail.
According to a recent Gallup poll, 66% of Americans support the federal legalization of recreational marijuana and with that comes an ever-expanding retail footprint. This session is designed to address the unique challenges faced by cannabis retail leaders and entrepreneurs in planning their operations for success in a modern retail environment. The panel will take a look at Talent, Brand, and Compliance strategies with real-life case studies to help provide valuable take-aways for the implementation of a Retail 2.0 strategy.
Panelists:
Liz Stahura
President & Co-Founder
BDSA
Ryan Rapaport
Managing Partner
Digital Venture Partners
Melissa Stapley
Founder
MJ Hybrid Solutions
Larina Scofield
Director of Operations
Lucy Sky Cannabis Boutique
Webinar Recording: Managing Novel Risks During The COVID-19 Crisis (Part 2)
Watch this webinar recording to learn more about managing novel risks during the COVID-19 Crisis.
A conversation with industry legal and financial experts discussing how cannabis operators can mitigate the financial risks presented by coronavirus.
Get actionable advice and insights regarding how to manage your financial risk and avoid pitfalls.
Topics addressed include:
Managing finances in a business deemed “essential”.
Navigating the legal, financial nuances of assistance programs.
Federal and State Financial assistance programs.
What aspects of these programs can cannabis businesses utilize?
Legal ramifications and implications of applying for assistance.
CARES Act, upcoming changes to SAFE Banking, and what they mean to you.
Frequently misinterpreted language in 280E.
What coronavirus teaches us about the import of proactive financial risk management.
The panel:
Summer Jenkins, CLCS, Senior Product Manager of Cannasure Insurance Services, LLC (Moderator)
Christopher Davis, Executive Director of the International Cannabis Bar Association (INCBA)
Michelle Rutter Friberg, Deputy Director of Government Relations at NCIA
Kevin Haller, CPA, Principal of Akene Consulting LLC
Webinar Recording: NCIA Committee Insights – Managing Novel Risks During the COVID-19 Crisis
In case you missed it, watch the recording of this webinar from April 27, 2020. NCIA’s Risk Management and Insurance Committee presents a conversation regarding how cannabis operators can mitigate the risks that the coronavirus presents to their customers, their employees, and their businesses. Get actionable advice and expert insights regarding how to manage your risk and avoid potential liability while keeping your essential business open.
Topics addressed include:
Identifying all novel risks presented by COVID-19
Addressing the availability for insurance coverage for COVID-related losses
Creating SOPs around employee and customer safety
Increased delivery exposure and SOPs around fleet management, driver safety/protection
Managing increased cyber security risks through insurance and strong SOPs
What coronavirus teaches us about the import of proactive risk management
Speakers include:
Jason Horst, Principal
Horst Legal Counsel
Stephanie Bozzuto, Co-Founder & President
Marketing Cannabis Connect Insurance Services
Summer Jenkins, CLCS, Senior Product Development Manager
Cannasure Insurance Services
Eric Rahn, Managing Partner
S2S Insurance Specialists
Wes Gilbreath, CFO
Continental Heritage Insurance Company
Eduardo Provencio, General Council
Mary’s Medicinals
#IndustryEssentials Webinar Recording – Fireside Chats with NCIA’s Government Relations Team: Highlighting Advocacy
In this edition of our Fireside Chats with NCIA’s Government Relations Team originally aired on Wednesday, May 27th, Mike and Michelle chatted with other industry association lobbyists from the Marijuana Policy Project, the Drug Policy Alliance, and NORML for a discussion on the importance of advocacy.
For decades, cannabis activism, advocacy, and lobbying have been intertwined. Sometimes, it’s portrayed that “advocacy” groups and “industry” associations are at odds, however, you’ll be surprised to learn that while we may have differing opinions or strategies occasionally, we all still work incredibly closely together and consider one another friends. We hope you can join us for a discussion about how cannabis advocacy has changed over the years, an inside look at what’s next in state and federal policy, and learn more about why cannabis legalization can’t (and won’t) pass without addressing the harms of the war on drugs.
Panelists:
Michael Correia
Director of Government Relations
National Cannabis Industry Association
Michelle Rutter Friberg
Deputy Director of Government Relations
National Cannabis Industry Association
Chris Lindsey
Director of Government Relations
Marijuana Policy Project
Maritza Perez
Director of National Affairs
Drug Policy Alliance
Justin Strekal
Political Director
NORML
Webinar Recording: All Gave Some, Some Gave All – A Policy Discussion on the Veterans Cannabis Conundrum
In case you missed this webinar on Memorial Day, watch this recording.
Especially around Memorial Day, it’s important to remember the reason for the holiday: our veterans. Unfortunately, though all gave some and some gave all, the vast majority of our veterans are still unable to access safe, regulated cannabis. Many individuals in the veteran community struggle under unique health burdens stemming from their honorable service, and have experienced little success in managing their conditions with available pharmaceuticals. Through cannabis, veterans of all generations and with various conditions have experienced improvements in their quality of life by using cannabis.
In Congress, two bills aimed at tackling this issue have already passed out of the House Veterans Affairs Committee — H.R. 712: the VA Medicinal Cannabis Research Act of 2019, sponsored by Congressman Lou Correa (D-CA) and H.R. 1647: the Veterans Equal Access Act, sponsored by Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-OR). In March, the Congressional Budget Office scored H.R. 1647 and found that passing the bill into law would cost the federal government exactly $0.
Enjoy this webinar focused on cannabis, health, and our armed services members. NCIA’s Government Relations team is joined by none other than the lead sponsors of the VA Medicinal Cannabis Research Act of 2019 and H.R. 1647: the Veterans Equal Access Act, Congressmen Lou Correa and Earl Blumenauer, respectively. Our panel also includes the cofounders of the Veterans Cannabis Coalition, Eric Goepel and Bill Ferguson. This unique opportunity will allow you to hear from the lead sponsors of legislation designed to give our veterans the best quality of life possible, interact with member(s) of Congress, and learn more about the prospects of these bills passing into law.
Webinar: NCIA Committee Insights – Cannabis Retail Success and Strategies
NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinars are our new weekly educational series featuring a variety of programs allowing us to provide you timely, engaging and essential education when you need it most.
The NCIA Committee Insights series showcases content produced in partnership with one of our 15 member-led committees.
According to a recent Gallup poll, 66% of Americans support the federal legalization of recreational marijuana and with that comes an ever-expanding retail footprint. This session is designed to address the unique challenges faced by cannabis retail leaders and entrepreneurs in planning their operations for success in a modern retail environment. The panel will take a look at Talent, Brand, and Compliance strategies with real-life case studies to help provide valuable take-aways for the implementation of a Retail 2.0 strategy.
Register now to join us on Monday, June 1 at 1:00 PM MT.
Ryan Rapaport
Managing Partner
Digital Venture Partners
Melissa Stapley
Founder
MJ Hybrid Solutions
Larina Scofield
Director of Operations
Lucy Sky Cannabis Boutique
Webinar: Policy Council Conversations: Just Say No – Keep the DEA out of Cannabis Research
NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials educational webinar series is our new digital platform featuring a variety of programs to provide you timely, engaging, and essential education when & where you need it most!
The Policy Council Conversations series features insights & invaluable content directly from members of NCIA’s Policy Council, the preeminent “Think Tank” for the cannabis industry.
The Drug Enforcement Administration recently issued a notice of proposed rulemaking on cannabis research. If adopted, this rule would fundamentally change how cannabis research is conducted. NCIA recently submitted public comments, rejecting the DEA’s power grab and strongly suggesting that a public health agency (i.e. Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, etc.) lead on cannabis research. Simultaneously, lawyers at Yetter Coleman filed a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit against DOJ, demanding the release of an OLC memo relied upon by DEA in their rulemaking. That successful suit was brought on behalf of Scottsdale Research Institute.
This panel will discuss the critical importance of cannabis research, the DEA rulemaking and NCIA’s numerous objections, and the lawsuit against DEA and the resulting disclosure of the DOJ policy memo.
Register now to join us on Wednesday, June 3 at 12:00 PM MT.
Jodi Avergun
Chair, White Collar and Criminal Defense and Investigations Group
Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP
&
Former Chief of Staff
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
Andrew Kline
Director of Public Policy
National Cannabis Industry Association
Sue Sisley, MD
Principal Investigator
Scottsdale Research Institute
Matt Zorn
Associate
Yetter Coleman
Shane Pennington
Associate
Yetter Coleman
Webinar Recording: Good Manufacturing Practices in the Age of COVID-19
Tune in to this webinar recording from Wednesday, April 15, 2020. As the realizations of the Coronavirus sink in, one thing is certain – cannabis companies need to be leveraging good manufacturing practices, otherwise known as GMPs. GMPs are the practices required in order to conform to the guidelines recommended by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA is the public health agency in the United States that controls the authorization and licensing of the manufacture and sale of food and beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceutical products, dietary supplements, and medical devices. While many companies in cannabis are already following these guidelines, some are not.
This panel explores the GMPs themselves, how companies can become compliant, how GMPs can be amplified to make certain that we are preventing the spread of COVID-19, and whether there are extra precautions that should be taken to keep cannabis consumers safe.
Panelists:
Andrew Kline, Director of Public Policy National Cannabis Industry Association
Haley Brandsgard, Senior Quality and Compliance Manager Mary’s Brands
Alena Rodriguez, Managing Director Rm3 Labs
Trevor Morones, Founder Control Point
Jen Komerda, Quality Assurance Manager Wana Brands
NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinars are our new weekly educational series featuring a variety of programs allowing us to provide you timely, engaging and essential education when you need it most. The NCIA Committee Insights series showcases content produced in partnership with one of our 15 member-led committees.
Members of NCIA’s Scientific Advisory Committee will discuss how label claims came to be, what they look like in sister industries, and why label claims are important for cannabis products. Attendees will leave with a thorough understanding of what drug labels look like, what food labels look like, and why cannabis labels are different. A review of state based regulatory requirements and why they matter will also be provided.
Register now to join us on Wednesday, June3 at 10:00 AM MT.
