Maximizing Cannabis Marketing ROI: Key Insights from NCIA’s Latest Webinar
In an increasingly competitive cannabis market, understanding how to measure and maximize your marketing and PR efforts is essential. Our latest Industry Essentials webinar brought together top industry experts from NCIA’s Marketing & Advertising Committee to break down effective strategies for increasing visibility, proving ROI, and aligning marketing efforts with business growth.
Key takeaways from the discussion included:
PR isn’t just about press—it’s about measurable business impact. Understanding how earned media translates to sales and brand credibility is crucial.
Data-driven marketing decisions lead to stronger ROI. Identifying the right KPIs ensures you’re focusing on what truly moves the needle.
A strong brand strategy outperforms disconnected tactics. Thoughtful, integrated campaigns create long-term success rather than short-term spikes.
Stay ahead of industry trends and ensure your marketing efforts deliver real results. Catch the replay now and level up your strategy!
Policy Matters: Charting the Course – Examining Michigan’s Cannabis Regulations
Policy Matters is our new insightful #IndustryEssentials webinar series dedicated to unraveling the intricate world of regulatory and policy dynamics within the cannabis industry. Each episode will feature 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.
As we continue our journey through the enlightening “Policy Matters” series, we’re thrilled to bring you the third installment, featuring Brian Hanna, Executive Director of Michigan’s Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA). Building on the success of our previous episodes, where we delved into the strategic aspects of cannabis market design and explored the potential implications of federal cannabis reform, this session promises to provide even more insights into the dynamic world of cannabis regulation.
In this episode, we sit down with Brian Hanna to unravel his unique pathway to the helm of Michigan’s Cannabis Regulatory Agency. Join us for a candid conversation that not only explores Brian’s background but also dives deep into his experiences overseeing the evolution of cannabis regulation as markets mature. Drawing lessons from his extensive journey, Brian will share invaluable advice for fellow cannabis markets and shed light on the priorities and initiatives at the CRA.
This episode isn’t just about regulations; it’s about people. Discover the personalities behind the policies, gain strategic advice for navigating complex regulatory landscapes, and understand the nuances of enforcing change in the cannabis industry. As part of the Cannabis Regulators Association (CANNRA), Brian brings a wealth of knowledge and perspectives that will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the ever-changing regulatory landscape.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this engaging conversation. Join us for Episode 3 of “Policy Matters” as we continue to demystify the intricate world of cannabis policy and empower you with the knowledge to thrive in this dynamic industry.
Reserve your spot today, stay informed, and stay ahead in the conversation that’s shaping the future of cannabis policy. The journey continues, and your participation matters.
Member Blog: Where Is Delta-8 THC Legal and Where Is It Banned? CBD Oracle’s Map Has the Answers
Delta-8 THC is probably the most controversial cannabinoid on the planet right now. With the 2018 Farm Bill being widely considered to have removed the THC isomer from the federal list of controlled substances, hemp and CBD companies quickly found a use for their excess CBD isolate. But if you’re considering selling delta-8 THC,federal law is only a part of the picture, and at state level, you have a patchwork of different laws and regulatory schemes to contend with.
This is why CBD Oracle, working alongsideNeil Willner co-chair of the Cannabis Group at Royer Cooper Cohen Braunfeld, has produced astate-by-state map of delta-8 THC’s legality based on extensive reviews of state law. If you want to know what’s going on with delta-8 THC in a specific state, this is one of the best resources around to get the answer you’re looking for.
Delta-8 THC Is Legal in 22 States and 1 District With Limited Regulation
Despite the controversy surrounding delta-8 THC, it remains legal in 22 states and 1 district, with only limited regulation. This covers the following states:
Alabama*
Arizona
Arkansas
Florida*
Georgia (?)
Illinois
Indiana (?)
Kentucky*
Maine
Maryland* (?)
Missouri
Nebraska
New Jersey
New Mexico
North Carolina
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania (?)
South Carolina (?)
Texas (?)
Washington D.C.
Wisconsin
Wyoming*
Here, a * beside the state’s name means they’ve instituted age restrictions, preventing anybody aged 21 or under from buying delta-8 THC. States marked with (?) are currently involved in legal action about the status of delta-8 THC.
In the majority of these cases, state law basically follows the blueprint laid down by the 2018 Farm Bill with few or no additional rules. In fact, only a handful of states (Alabama, Florida, Kentucky, Maryland and Wyoming) have even passed laws preventing youth from buying delta-8 THC.
Legal actions are ongoing in several states, with the situation being slightly different in each. For instance, in Maryland, thehemp industry won a temporary injunction against the state, preventing the state from enforcing the provisions of House Bill (HB) 556 which relate to hemp until the action is resolved. The bill originally made it so that delta-8 THC products (and most CBD) could only be sold in licensed marijuana dispensaries, but this was deemed by the court to create a monopoly.
Delta-8 THC Is Banned in 17 States and Severely Restricted in 7 More
For every state where delta-8 THC is de facto legal, there is another state which has either banned or severely restricted the cannabinoid. In total, CBD Oracle’s analysis shows that delta-8 THC is banned in 17 states and severely restricted in 7 more. The states with bans are:
Alaska
Colorado
Delaware
Hawaii
Idaho
Massachusetts
Mississippi
Montana
Nevada (technically could be approved for marijuana industry)
New York (isomerization banned, could theoretically be sold in adult use)
North Dakota
Oregon
Rhode Island
Utah (possible in medical industry)
Vermont
Washington
West Virginia
And there are severe restrictions – limiting all THCs to be under 0.3% for hemp products, unless otherwise noted – in the following seven states:
Iowa
Kansas
Louisiana (all THCs must be under 8 mg per serving and 1% by dry weight)
Michigan (all THCs under 0.3% and only marijuana-derived delta-8 allowed)
Minnesota (all THCs under 0.3% and less than 5 mg per serving)
New Hampshire
Virginia (2 mg serving limit or >25:1 CBD:THC ratio)
Exactly how delta-8 THC is banned or restricted varies by state. For instance, while Coloradobans the “isomerization” process used to make delta-8 from CBD, Idahobasically bansanything that contains THC at all, even if it’s just CBD with trace, federally-acceptable levels of delta-9 THC. For the restricted states, most require that all THCs total to under 0.3% by dry weight, which is technically possible for a delta-8 THC product to meet, but essentially none do.
The analysis also revealed that – just like with marijuana – making delta-8 THC illegal doesn’t automatically remove it from a community. In Hawaii and Mississippi, for instance, despite state law banning delta-8 THC, it is still openly sold.
Only Three States Have Substantial Regulations on Delta-8 THC
In California, Connecticut and Tennessee, delta-8 THC is legal but has substantial regulations in place. In California and Connecticut, delta-8 THC is treated as marijuana and is sold as part of the adult use industry. This automatically institutes a wide range of requirements on the cannabinoid, including rules on testing and labeling to ensure safety and transparency for consumers.
Tennessee is the unique case here, where delta-8 THC is regulated as a “hemp-derived cannabinoid” and is legal to sell to adults aged 21 and over.Senate Bill (SB) 378 includes requirements for testing for contaminants, informative labeling and marketing which does not target youths, as well as a 25 mg serving size limit.
The Patchwork of Laws and the Future of Delta-8 THC
The key take-away for sellers of delta-8 THC is that current state regulations are a patchwork, making it very difficult to navigate for even the most responsible of companies. The product you can sell in Arizona without issues is probably not legal in Kansas, and would require batch testing and more to be sold in Tennessee.
This uncertainty may be resolved by the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill, but even this isn’t a sure thing. While the 2018 Farm Bill opened the door to a whole host of products and simply assumed (incorrectly) that the FDA would step up to regulate finished products, the new version might offer the clarity that was lacking. However, it’s just as likely that the bill will redefine “hemp” in a way that excludes delta-8 THC by default.
Pretty much the only thing you can depend on is that you’ll need to keep a close eye on state laws in the coming year. CBD Oracle’s map will be continuously revised to reflect the current legal reality and help responsible hemp companies remain compliant. ______________________________________________________________________________________
Lee Johnson is the senior editor at CBD Oracle, and has been covering science, vaping and cannabis for over a decade. He focuses on research-driven deep dives into topics ranging from medical uses for CBD to industry and user statistics, as well as general guides and explainers for consumers.
CBD Oracle is a cannabis consumer research company working to improve the safety and transparency of cannabis and hemp products, which publishes in-depth scientific, legal and consumer analyses on cannabis and cannabinoids.
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.
Policy Matters: Navigating the New Normal – A Regulator’s Outlook on Federal Momentum
Join us for the October edition of our new illuminating “Policy Matters” webinar series! In this dynamic session, we’ll dive into the intricacies of cannabis policy from two critical angles. For this month’s episode, we’re shifting the spotlight to the thriving adult-use cannabis marketplace in Maine, featuring our special guest, John Hudak, the Director of the Office of Cannabis Policy at the Maine Department of Administrative and Financial Services.
Discover the unique dynamics of Maine’s cannabis industry, from its regulatory framework to market trends and the challenges faced by industry stakeholders. Gain valuable insights into managing a successful adult-use market while adhering to rigorous regulatory standards. Then, we’ll explore the policy implications of descheduling or rescheduling cannabis, a topic that gained momentum following President Biden’s directive to review its federal classification.
Join our hosts, NCIA Policy Co-Chairs Khurshid Khoja and Michael Cooper and guest speakers, NCIA’s Director of Government Relations Michelle Rutter Friberg and John Hudak, Ph.D, the Director of the Maine Office of Cannabis Policy, as they discuss the potential shifts in cannabis policy, what the process may look like, and what to expect in the coming months.
Needless to say, with multiple federal agencies involved, an election year nearing, and Congress in disarray, this is a complex topic – but policy matters. Stay informed, stay ahead, and be part of the conversation that’s shaping the future of cannabis policy.
Tune in and empower yourself with the knowledge to thrive in this dynamic industry! Reserve your spot today and join us as we continue to unravel the complexities of cannabis policy and regulation.
Panelists:
John Hudak
Director | Maine Office of Cannabis Policy
Committee Insights: Where Risk Assessment Integrity Meets Policy
Join us for Episode 3 of the vape-focused #IndustryEssentials webinar series, brought to you by NCIA’s Cannabis Manufacturing Committee. In this informative session, we will delve into the critical intersection of Risk Assessment Integrity and Policy within the cannabis and hemp industries.
As the cannabis and hemp sectors continue to experience rapid growth, ensuring product safety and integrity is paramount. This webinar will provide industry professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders with the knowledge and insights needed to navigate the complex landscape of risk assessment, compliance, and policy development.
Learning Objectives
• Ingredient Risk Assessment Exploration
• Discuss the Balance of Regulations vs. Innovation
• Gain Insights on Due Diligence for New Products
• Impact of Counterfeiting and Effectiveness of Track & Trace on Authenticity
• Overview of the Global Cannabinoid Containing Product Landscape
• Explore Evolving Advertising and Marketing Regulations
• Precautions for Cross-State Shipping and Product Integrity
• Discover Strategies for Youth Prevention and Emerging Technologies
Panelists:
Gillian Schauer
Executive Director
Cannabis Regulator’s Association
Raza Lawrence
Counsel
Zuber Lawler Group
Shawna Vreeke
Head of Research
True Terpenes
Josh Borodin
Head of Product
GREENTANK
James Granger
Chief Political Officer
Cliintel Capital
Darwin Millard (Moderator)
The GMP Collective
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.
—
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!
Unlocking Social Equity in Legal Cannabis Delivery | 9.21.23 | NCIA #IndustryEssentials Webinar
Welcome to the National Cannabis Industry Association’s (NCIA) latest webinar recording, “Committee Insights: Balancing the Scales – Social Equity in Legal Cannabis Delivery.” NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinar series is your gateway to timely, engaging, and essential education in the dynamic world of cannabis. In this insightful session we partnered with NCIA’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee (one of our 14 member-led committees) to explore the pressing need to address historical inequities in the legal cannabis industry.
As the cannabis industry experiences exponential growth, it’s crucial to provide a platform for individuals adversely affected by past cannabis laws. Our esteemed panel of experts shed light on the importance of social equity in cannabis delivery regulations and offered actionable solutions for a more inclusive industry.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the historical context of cannabis-related offenses and their disproportionate impacts.
• Recognize the crucial importance of social equity provisions in cannabis regulations.
• Identify best practices for implementing social equity in cannabis delivery.
• Engage stakeholders in constructive dialogues for industry-wide change.
Our target audience for this webinar included cannabis industry professionals and regulators, entrepreneurs interested in cannabis delivery services, social justice advocates, and policymakers, as well as legal professionals.
Whether you’re an industry insider or a passionate advocate, this webinar recording is a valuable resource to deepen your understanding of social equity in the cannabis industry. Join us as we work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive future.
Member Blog: 5 Things You Need to Do Before You Launch Your Cannabusiness in New York
Cannabis was legalized in New York in 2021, and now the market is starting to fully open up for all types of cannabusinesses across the state. Despite a rocky start to rolling out new licenses, it’s almost time for the general public to dip their toes in and start their own dispensaries.
New York’s legal cannabis market is projected to be worth $4.2 billion by 2027, making it the country’s second-largest recreational cannabis state. It won’t be long before cannabis businesses have hundreds of locations across New York.
Curious about how to open a New York dispensary? Here are five things you need to do to get ready for your blossoming cannabusiness.
Conduct Market Research & Choose a Location
Since many cannabusinesses will be opening up in New York in the next few years, you need to ensure that yours is set up for success from the start. The best way to secure success is by selecting a high-demand area with minimal competition. You can identify lucrative locations by exploring different neighborhoods and conducting market research.
Visit prospective spots in person, instead of just looking at them on a map. You’ll get a much better sense of the feel of the area, the type of people walking through, the surrounding businesses, and more. And if feasible, talking to residents and local business owners will help you to really understand the market.
It is also important to be mindful of the New York zoning laws before securing a location. According to statewide zoning restrictions, a cannabis dispensary can’t be on the same road or within 500 feet of a school and 200 feet from a house of worship. Cities may have additional restrictions to limit the number of cannabis dispensaries in a certain location. Do your research before you get married to a location that won’t work out for logistical reasons.
Apply for a License
You’ll need a license to open a cannabusiness in the state of New York. However, as of October 2023, the path to applying and receiving a cannabis license in the state is a little up in the air.
When applications for the first licenses opened up, New York legislators wanted to ensure that people who were negatively impacted by the state’s previous criminalization of cannabis could apply first. This included people who were convicted of a cannabis offense in New York or were affected by a loved one’s conviction.
Now, starting on October 4, 2023, New York will start accepting license applications from a much broader pool of entrepreneurs. Applications are open to everyone over the age of 21 who does not already have three licenses. This is exciting news for many aspiring cannabusiness owners who were not eligible the first time around.
However, these licenses may not be issued as soon as prospective owners hope. When the state legalized cannabis, its goal was to award half of the retail licenses to people with previous cannabis convictions, racial minorities, women, and veterans disabled during service. Several veterans have filed a lawsuit stating that veterans were unfairly passed over for the early licenses. The judge in the case ordered that the state wait to award any new dispensary licenses until the case continues.
Opening a dispensary in New York will be expensive. While profits will likely be high once you open, you need to find a way to secure the funding needed to get your cannabusiness operational — which experts say could cost between $500,000 to $2 million.
This figure accounts for a variety of expenses for your cannabusiness, including:
Licensing and application fees
Lawyers and consultants
Real estate
Dispensary design and construction
Staffing
Business equipment
Surveillance and security system
Marketing and advertising
Products and inventory
Many cannabis entrepreneurs take out loans to cover these up-front costs, either from credit unions or cannabis-friendly banks. Some are able to partner with others or enlist investors to start their businesses. However, you should do your due diligence and research before taking on a loan or going into business with an investor. Unfortunately, there has been some predatory lending occurring in the market because of the inability to lend from large banks. Make sure that you do this research before you get too far in the process of creating your cannabusiness.
Understand Cannabis Laws & Regulations in New York
There are hundreds of laws and regulations that apply to cannabusinesses in New York. While this can feel overwhelming, it’s important to follow them carefully, especially when you’re setting up your dispensary.
There are some regulations that apply to your customers that you’ll need to adhere to, including:
Customers must be over the age of 21
Customers can only buy 3 ounces of cannabis flower per day
Customers can only buy 24 grams of cannabis concentrates per day
Others regulations apply to your business location, including:
Installing a 24-hour commercial-grade security system
Installing a perimeter alarm
Conducting video surveillance in every part of the store with cannabis products
Products cannot be visible from outside of the store
Maintaining minimum staffing levels (depends on business plan submitted with application)
Training staff on local ordinances, laws, and cannabis safety
It’s vital to take these rules seriously from the beginning. Neglecting even a single law could result in your dispensary getting shut down. You can consult an extensive overview of the New York cannabis laws and regulations here.
Invest in the Right Team
You need to hire a team of high-quality employees who will help your business succeed from the very first day. Your budtenders can make or break your entire business model, so you need to vet them carefully and train them well.
Your budtenders will be interacting directly with clients. They’ll answer their questions, suggest products, and upsell items. Hire these employees carefully, and make sure they’re happy in their positions by offering great pay and benefits.
To streamline training, create training manuals and SOPs (standard operating procedures) so that every employee is trained in the same way. This will limit mistakes and increase efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Final Thoughts on Launching Your New York Cannabusiness
Cannabis is expected to become a booming industry in New York. If you’ve always dreamed of opening a cannabusiness, now’s your chance to get in as early as possible and make your impact on the market!
Committee Insights: Balancing the Scales – Social Equity in Legal Cannabis Delivery
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. The NCIA Committee Insights series showcases content produced in partnership with one of our 15 member-led committees.
As the legal cannabis industry grows exponentially, there remains a pressing need to address historical inequities and provide a platform for individuals adversely affected by past cannabis laws. This webinar aims to shed light on theimportance of social equity in cannabis delivery regulations and offer actionable solutions for a more inclusive industry.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the historical context of cannabis-related offenses and their disproportionate impacts.
• Recognize the importance of social equity provisions in cannabis regulations.
• Identify best practices for implementing social equity in cannabis delivery.
• Engage stakeholders in constructive dialogues for industry-wide change.
Target Audience:
• Cannabis industry professionals and regulators.
• Entrepreneurs interested in cannabis delivery services.
• Social justice advocates and policymakers.
• Legal professionals.
Panelists:
Mark Slaugh
iComply
Michael Diaz-Riviera
Better Days Delivery Service
Bryce Fluellen
Euphorium
Tee Tee Brown
Euphorium
Moderator:
Kenya Alexander
Green to Green Solutions
HHS Recommends Rescheduling: Now What? | 9.14.23 | Fireside Chats with NCIA’s Government Relations Team
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. The Fireside Chat series of NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinars are an opportunity for industry professionals to hear from our government relations team and guests about the latest developments in federal policy LIVE.
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 recently changed 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.
There’s no doubt this move was an historic one– but what does it mean? What’s next? How will it impact your business? Join NCIA’s Aaron Smith and Michelle Rutter Friberg as they unpack all these questions surrounding cannabis rescheduling impact and more!
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?
Member Blog: How to Avoid the 4 Most Common Payroll Mistakes
To achieve your goals in business, your payroll system must be flawless. It is an aspect in which you must strive for perfection whenever possible. Avoiding payroll mistakes in the cannabis industry is especially crucial due to the highly regulated nature of the industry. Compliance with payroll regulations is essential to avoid legal repercussions and penalties from governing agencies. Additionally, accurate and timely payroll ensures proper compensation for employees, and maintaining precise payroll records promotes transparency and accountability, building trust with employees and stakeholders in an industry where transparency is vital.
It is better to be safe by managing your payroll as thoroughly as possible, if not you would be sorry you didn’t. Most people have most likely made these mistakes and have had minor consequences accompanying them. If these mistakes persist, the business owner often pays dearly for them. These common payroll mistakes have cost some their business.
Having Multiple Records for a Certain Payroll
It pays to have all your payroll information in a single database. This enhances security and ensures that you know where to look for your payroll information. If this has been your practice and your business uses tools like HCM software that helps you manage your employees and other business information, then this shouldn’t be much of a problem.
All you’ll have to do is use that same software to manage and process payroll information. If your business documents are disorganized, be sure to have them all in one place.
Not Updating Needed Information
Ensure that you are not complacent by relying on automated software to do everything. The system is not aware that your employee would be changing addresses therefore such info should be entered manually.
That error could lead to mistakes in filling that employee’s taxes as the bills might arrive at the wrong address. As much as simplifying a process is great, you still need to play your path in getting things done.
It would help you to set timely reminders in the system that should help you avoid the mistake of not keeping up with the latest information.
Weak Security System
Confidential information should remain so. To avoid your system being compromised, you should be using a payroll processing system with strong cybersecurity.
This has got to be the costliest mistake common to payroll processing. Every information concerning your business that is not available on your website and to your customers, is most likely not public information. Private information about your business should remain private.
Information in payroll systems is as sensitive as can be. There’s almost every piece of information you need to know about a person, and as such strict rules should apply to keeping them safe. A weak security measure means a weak business and a weak business means trouble.
Inaccurate or Delayed Tax Payments
In calculating taxes absolute precaution is required. If you are not a tax accountant you are probably not so proficient in this calculation. Your tax accountant (if your business has one) should learn how to adequately use the system to avoid delay or inaccuracy.
Bear in mind that inaccurate tax payment makes your business a tax defaulter. Your business as a taxpayer has the duty of tax calculations assigned to an accountant. Note that taxes ought to be paid within the required time bracket. The systems are programmed to make the tax payments when due.
The human capital management system does not only process payroll information but can also tell when employees qualify for federal or state tax credits.
In Conclusion
To maintain payroll accuracy and timeliness in the cannabis industry, it is crucial to avoid payroll mistakes. By opting for a third-party payroll provider like Tesseon you can benefit from our expertise and ensure that your payroll is consistently accurate and delivered on time, regardless of any industry-specific challenges. The Cannabis industry is both very young and extremely regulated, it is imperative that businesses stay vigilant and proactive to avoid costly mistakes.
Committee Insights: Cracking the Code – Unraveling the Challenge of Coverage for Novel Cannabinoids
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.
We’ve seen so much interest and had so much fun exploring these topics that we couldn’t wrap it up just quite yet! Next month, NCIA’s Risk Management & Insurance Committee explores why insurance for novel cannabinoids can be such a challenging code to crack…
In this session you’ll learn from our panel of leading risk management, insurance and compliance experts how to navigate liability and legislative loopholes so you’ll better understand exposure alongside a patchwork of federal and state requirements.
You’ll leave this webinar with a better understanding of how novel cannabinoids are defined in various insurance policies, why they’re difficult to insure and the science behind this novel cannabinoid coverage conundrum.
Join us for this insightful webinar as we strive to unravel the complexities of insuring novel cannabinoids and equip you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions regarding your insurance coverage. Reserve your spot today and 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.
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
Committee Insights: Concepts for Regulatory Consideration – Shifting the Conversation from “Cannabis vs. Hemp” to “The Cannabinoids”
Our minor, novel & synthetic cannabinoid series concludes with Part V looking at different approaches to regulating consumer products containing cannabinoids across the US and provide perspectives from cannabinoid product manufacturers on the impact these varying regulations have on their business.
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.
Panelists will conclude by discussing what harmonized regulations for consumer products containing cannabinoids might look like in the future.
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
Panelists
Chris Hope (Moderator)
Founder and Consultant
Sequoia Management Group
James Granger
Chief Political Officer
Cliintel Capital Group
Darwin Millard
Chief Scientific OfficerCanada
Final Bell
Keith Butler
CEO
OP Innovates / Naturia+
Cassin Coleman
Founder
Cassin Consulting
Gillian Schauer
Executive Director
Cannabis Regulators Association
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
The cannabis industry has experienced rapid growth in recent years, with more and more states legalizing its use for medical and recreational purposes. As a result, cannabis dispensaries are becoming increasingly popular, with many people visiting them for the first time. For dispensary owners, managers, and budtenders, it’s essential to provide a positive customer experience to build brand loyalty and attract repeat business. This blog will discuss the importance of focusing on the customer experience at cannabis dispensaries and how understanding terpenes, cannabinoids, and THC percentages can improve the overall experience for both new and experienced users.
Understanding the Customer Experience
What makes a great customer experience at a cannabis dispensary? A positive experience can be characterized by:
Knowledgeable Staff:
Budtenders and other staff members should be well-trained and able to provide accurate and easily digestible information on various cannabis products, including their effects and appropriate dosages.
Welcoming Atmosphere:
Dispensaries should be clean, well-organized, and aesthetically pleasing, making customers feel comfortable and at ease during their visit.
Product Selection:
A wide variety of high-quality cannabis products should be available to cater to the diverse preferences and needs of customers.
Personalized Recommendations:
Budtenders should be able to make personalized recommendations based on the customer’s preferences, desired effects, and level of experience with cannabis.
Terpenes, Cannabinoids, and THC: Key Components of Cannabis
To provide an exceptional customer experience, it’s essential for dispensary staff to understand the key components of cannabis, including terpenes, cannabinoids, and THC percentages. These components play a significant role in the overall effects of cannabis and can help staff make tailored recommendations for customers.
Terpenes:
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They give each strain its unique aroma and taste, and they can also have therapeutic effects. There are over 100 different terpenes in cannabis, with some of the most common ones being myrcene, limonene, and pinene. Understanding the terpene profile of a specific strain can help staff recommend products based on the desired flavor and aroma, as well as the potential therapeutic benefits.
Cannabinoids:
Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds found in cannabis that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, producing various effects. Many Cannabis products advertise “full-spectrum” CBD, meaning that the product not only contains CBD, but can also contain the other cannabinoids as well as terpenes, essential oils, and up to 0.3% THC. There are over 100 different cannabinoids in cannabis, with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) being the most well-known. THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, while CBD has various therapeutic effects without causing a “high.” Dispensary staff should be familiar with the different cannabinoids and their effects to help customers choose products based on their desired experience.
THC Percentages:
The THC percentage of a cannabis product indicates the concentration of THC, which largely determines the psychoactive effects of the product. Generally, higher THC percentages lead to more potent effects. However, it’s important to note that the overall effects of a cannabis product are influenced by other factors, such as the terpene profile and the presence of other cannabinoids. Dispensary staff should be able to explain the significance of THC percentages and guide customers in selecting products with appropriate potency levels.
Educating Customers and Tailoring Recommendations
Dispensary staff should prioritize educating customers about terpenes, cannabinoids, and THC percentages to help them make informed decisions about their purchases. By understanding these components, customers can better tailor their cannabis experience to their preferences and needs.
For example, a customer looking for a relaxing experience may be interested in a strain high in myrcene, a terpene known for its sedative and relaxing effects. In contrast, someone seeking a more uplifting and energizing experience might prefer a strain with a higher concentration of limonene, which is associated with elevated mood and increased energy. Additionally, customers with little to no experience with cannabis may prefer strains with lower THC percentages to avoid overwhelming psychoactive effects.
When assisting customers, dispensary staff should ask about their preferences, desired effects, and experience level with cannabis. Based on this information, they can recommend strains and products that align with the customer’s goals while considering the terpene profile, cannabinoid content, and THC percentage. This personalized approach can help customers feel more confident in their purchases and lead to a more satisfying experience.
For HR Professionals: Training and Development
To ensure that dispensary staff can effectively educate customers and provide tailored recommendations, it’s crucial for HR professionals to invest in comprehensive training and development programs. Training should cover a wide range of topics, including:
Cannabis Fundamentals:
Staff should have a solid understanding of cannabis basics, such as the differences between indica, sativa, and hybrid strains, and the various forms of cannabis product, methods of ingestion and their varying timing of effects (e.g., flower, edibles, concentrates, tinctures, and topicals, vaping, eating, and drinking).
Terpenes, Cannabinoids, and THC:
As discussed earlier, staff should be well-versed in the role of terpenes, cannabinoids, and THC percentages in determining the effects of cannabis products.
Customer Service Skills:
Staff should be trained in effective communication, active listening, and empathy to better understand and serve their customers.
Compliance and Regulations:
Dispensary staff should be knowledgeable about state and local regulations regarding cannabis sales, as well as safety protocols and best practices for handling cannabis products.
By providing thorough training and development opportunities, HR professionals can ensure that dispensary staff are equipped to deliver an exceptional customer experience.
The Role of Technology in Enhancing the Customer Experience
As the cannabis industry continues to grow and evolve, technology is playing an increasingly important role in enhancing the customer experience at dispensaries. In this section, we’ll explore several innovative technologies and tools that can help dispensary owners, managers, and staff provide an even better experience for their customers.
Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems:
Modern POS systems designed specifically for cannabis dispensaries can streamline the sales process and improve the customer experience. These systems can track customer preferences, manage inventory, calculate taxes, and ensure compliance with state and local regulations. By investing in a robust POS system, dispensaries can provide a more efficient and personalized service for their customers.
Digital Menus:
Instead of relying on printed menus that can quickly become outdated, dispensaries can use digital menus to display their product offerings. These menus can be easily updated to reflect current inventory, and they can also include detailed information about each product, such as terpene profiles, cannabinoid content, and THC percentages. By providing customers with easy access to this information, digital menus can help them make more informed decisions about their purchases.
Online Resources and Mobile Apps:
Dispensaries can enhance the customer experience by offering online resources and mobile apps that provide valuable information and tools related to cannabis consumption. For example, they can develop educational content about terpenes, cannabinoids, and THC percentages or create interactive tools that help customers determine their ideal dosage based on their preferences and experience level. By providing customers with access to these resources, dispensaries can support them in their cannabis journey and help them make more informed decisions.
Customer Engagement and Community Building
Another crucial aspect of providing an exceptional customer experience at cannabis dispensaries is fostering a sense of community and engagement among customers.
Events:
Hosting events such as product launches, tastings, and guest speaker sessions can provide customers with an opportunity to learn more about cannabis, sample new products, and connect with other like-minded individuals. These events can also help establish a dispensary as a trusted source of information and a hub for the local cannabis community.
Educational Workshops:
Dispensaries can offer workshops that focus on various aspects of cannabis, such as understanding terpenes, cannabinoids, and THC percentages, cooking with cannabis, or cultivating cannabis at home. These workshops can help customers gain a deeper understanding of cannabis and its various uses, ultimately improving their overall experience.
Social Media:
Actively engaging with customers on social media platforms can help dispensaries stay connected with their audience, provide real-time updates on products and promotions, and gather valuable feedback. Dispensaries can also use social media to share educational content, answer customer questions, and participate in industry-related conversations.
Loyalty Programs:
Dispensaries can implement loyalty programs that reward customers for their repeat business, encouraging them to return and further engage with the dispensary. Loyalty programs can include discounts, exclusive promotions, or early access to new products, and can be an effective way to strengthen the customer-dispensary relationship.
Focusing on the customer experience at cannabis dispensaries is crucial for building brand loyalty, attracting repeat business, and maintaining a competitive edge in the growing cannabis industry. Dispensary owners, managers, and budtenders must prioritize educating customers about terpenes, cannabinoids, and THC percentages to help them make informed decisions and tailor their cannabis experience to their preferences and needs. HR professionals play a key role in ensuring that staff receive comprehensive training and development, enabling them to provide exceptional service and create a positive customer experience. By investing in the customer experience, dispensaries can set themselves apart and thrive in the competitive cannabis market.
Committee Insights | 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
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 | 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.
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: Meet the Minors (Novel, Minor, Synthetic Cannabinoids – Part II)
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. The NCIA Committee Insights series showcases content produced in partnership with one of our 15 member-led committees.
Our multi-part series on Novel, Minor, and Synthetic Cannabinoids continues! Join 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 LIVE from leading chemical experts, manufacturers and product development specialists as they explore 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.
Panelists
Cassin Coleman
Founder
Cassin Consulting
James Granger
Chief Political Officer
Clintel Capital Group
John Murray
President
Sustainable Innovations
Scott Seeley
Patent Attorney & Intellectual Property Lawyer
Eastgate IP
Committee Insights: NCIA Mythbusters – Is Cannabis Safer Than Alcohol?
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. The NCIA Committee Insights series showcases content produced in partnership with one of our 15 member-led committees.
It is estimated that more than 140,000 people die from alcohol-related causes annually, making alcohol the fourth-leading preventable cause of death in the United States. How does cannabis compare? Find out in this special edition of Mythbusters brought to you by members of NCIA’s Scientific Advisory Committee and State Regulatory Committee. As more and more states move towards adult use, business owners must learn about safe access best practices and ways to reduce harm when it comes to their consumers.
Learning Objectives
• Learn what a contraindication is
• Learn which physiological and mental health conditions should avoid THC and CBD
• Familiarize yourself with State Regulations to Avoid Harm and Increase Safe Access
• Policy Recommendations to Avoid Harm
Panelists
Paloma Lehfeldt, M.D.
Senior Director of Clinical Science and Partnerships
Vireo Health
David Vaillencourt
CEO and Founder
The GMP Collective
Cynthia Shelby-Lane
MD/CEO
ShelbyLaneMD PC
Paul Muchowski, Ph.D.
CEO & CSO
Defined Research
Cassin Coleman
Founder
Cassin Consulting
NCIA Best of 420 CLIO Cannabis Award Returns for 2023
The cannabis industry’s most accessible award program returns in 2023. A coveted award by brands and creatives alike, NCIA Best of 420 Award sets the standard for top creative work highlighting this important holiday and the biggest day in cannabis.
When launched in 2021, the NCIA Best of 420 Awards was a digital event for NCIA members highlighting each brands marketing efforts in a very challenging year. In 2022, the Best of 420 Awards partnered with the prestigious Clio Cannabis Awards – live in Las Vegas. What a thrill to showcase the NCIA Best of 420 winners alongside the industry’s most prestigious creative work.
For the cannabis community, by the cannabis community, the award program, wholly conceived and executed by the NCIA’s Marketing and Advertising Committee volunteers, is a labor of love that celebrates the most impactful 420 marketing work in the industry.
seen at Clio Cannabis Awards at Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022, in Las Vegas. (Photo by David Becker/Invision for Clio Cannabis Awards/AP Images)
“The Clio Cannabis Awards presentation during MJ Unpacked was a 2022 highlight for Claybourne Co., it made the sweet success of our 420 campaign even more special. The award brought the internal team together, made our external partnerships stronger, and created free awareness! It’s a great cannabis industry event, and we’re proud to be a recipient.” said Jonathan Griffith, VP of Marketing for Claybourne Co.
Any brand with a 2023 420 campaign is eligible, so now is a great time to start planning for success! Entries will be judged on the following criteria:
Community Impact: How did your campaign bring your community together? How did it highlight the best of the cannabis community to others? Did it support an advocacy campaign such as DEI, or sustainability?
Creativity: How creative was your overall 420 campaign?
Results: Was it an effective campaign for your own goals and KPIs?
It’s never too early to start planning your 420 campaign! Stay tuned for more information about how to enter the NCIA Best of 420 Award program!
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Cannabis Community Marketers – as you form your Best of 420 Campaigns, the NCIA Marketing & Advertising Committee provides these: 10 Tips for Winning Campaigns.
Tip #1: Build campaigns with end goals and metrics in mind. What gets measured gets done. Be ready to report on metrics for your submissions even before you start your campaign.
Tip#2: Be authentic and personable. The most successful cannabis brands show their authenticity and personality. Campaigns celebrating the audience /community as much as they do the brand tend to resonate best!
Tip #3: Collaborate and be creative. Campaigns are great opportunities to collaborate within or outside the cannabis community and gain exposure in each other’s networks.
Tip #4: Think beyond the campaign date. You can start a campaign anytime they can be tied to the 4/20 event, before or after.
Tip #5: Apply a 360-degree approach. Where possible and where budget allows, include as many channels and assets as possible for the best ROI and impact.
Tip #6: Engage your community. Great cannabis brands are constantly looking forat ways to engage in deep, lasting relationships with their communities.
Tip #7: Success at all budgets. A campaign does not have to have a big budget, and often the best campaigns are executed on smaller budgets. Focus on 1-2 applications of your campaigns that are better for your KPIs.
Tip #8: Tap into customer passions. Don’t be myopic and see this as an opportunity to tap into the full range of your customers’ interests and what is meaningful to them. This is about relationship building, and you want to see the customer’s lifetime value improve year after year.
Tip #9: Remember those regulations. A reminder that it is not just the general cannabis federal and state regulations but also the marketing and communications regulations in states and across the country that provide guidelines. Be creative within the legal boundaries.
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:
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.
Member Blog: Trends in Cannabis Technology – Data Mining And Compliance
Cannabis businesses are looking for the best practices to enhance operations, with a primary focus on optimization and growth. So whether you are in the cultivation, production, manufacturing, or selling and marketing section of the cannabis industry, you need technology to steer your business into the future.
The cannabis industry is still growing, albeit faster than anticipated, with an increasing demand for products that continue propelling innovation. Data is driving this innovation because it’s the differentiating factor for long-term success and sustainability.
Today, cannabis is a $25 billion business in the U.S. In fact, the 2022 Leafly Jobs Report found the legal cannabis industry supports 428,059 right now, a 33% increase over the 280 new jobs created per day, on average, last year.
We know all of this because of data, and it’s a critical decision-making factor in this industry. Without access to real-time information, cannabis companies can’t know where to invest or improve to remain competitive and compliant.
Here are the top 4 data and technology trends transforming the cannabis industry to keep in mind.
Laws and Regulations Software
Cannabis compliance is one of the most challenging yet vital factors to consider in the cannabis industry. Government mandates demand that cannabis companies provide cultivation, production, shipping, and sales information to help monitor the entire distribution process.
This makes sense because lack of transparency in other industries has caused several crises, likethe vaping crisis or theromaine lettuce E.coli outbreak of 2019. But collecting, tracking, and monitoring data is challenging for businesses, so is understanding the government regulations and ramifications.
With the emergence of cloud-based cannabis software, cannabis companies remain updated with these tight data restrictions. This software collects the appropriate data and analyzes business operations by checking the right boxes to ensure compliance.
With these industry-specific software solutions, cannabis businesses can establish and implement a standard of operations that comply with cannabis regulations. As an added benefit, these solutions offer convenient avenues for cannabis employees and business owners alike to understand the rules and regulations of the industry. Some also provide security against potential threats like cybersecurity threats.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
Cannabis plants usually require significant attention and fixed schedules because of their temperamental nature. As such, AI and ML are taking effect in the cannabis industry. Machine learning gathers data and provides suggestions on what farmers can change in the growing process.
The detail in machine learning makes it possible to collect, monitor, and track the growing cycle every hour, meaning cannabis farms use machine learning to improve these plants’ growing environment significantly.
For instance, farmers are using agricultural sensors to manipulate the growing environment to suit the needs of the cannabis plants. This is achieved by connecting the environment to growing systems with humidity sensors and controls, thermostats, and temperature controls.
These sensors ensure that cannabis is continually growing in optimal conditions. As such, the products cultivated continue to be of high quality.
Also, the machine learning sensors and tracking IDs make it easier to track cannabis products from seed to sale.
Artificial intelligence then automates these processes to make the entire growing experience easy for cannabis farmers. For instance, AI helps to automatically control the humidity levels as per the settings given by the farm moderator.
AI also automatically changes the light in the growing room since it affects the temperature needed for the plants to grow optimally. This continued innovation and adoption of AI and machine learning in the cannabis industry will lead to increased crop production and reduced manual labor.
Hybrid Cloud-Based Storage
Video data is a significant investment in the cannabis industry right now. Some government regulations outline the need for cannabis companies to have immediate access to video surveillance footage and on-demand. This need is driving the demand for storage spaces for the video footage.
While many cannabis businesses store data on-site, it is unpredictable and expensive. This is where hybrid cloud-based storage technology comes in. The technology is enough to hold video data until it is needed, like in the case of a cyberattack and the subsequent investigation.
It also gives cannabis businesses the choice to store data on-site and in the cloud. This enhances the flexibility, accessibility, and security of business files. Cloud platforms also make it easier to access business information from any location.
Blockchain Technology
Traditionally, the cannabis industry is a cash transaction industry, especially in dispensaries where the majority of the cannabis sales take place. Additionally, many cannabis businesses find it challenging to work with banks since most aren’t legally allowed to work with companies in the industry.
There is also the matter of making secure payments and tracking transactions successfully. In a word, the cannabis industry is adopting blockchain technology for cryptocurrency payments and transaction tracking.
Blockchain is secure, and it has processes that make it easy to track and monitor transactions. But because using blockchain as an alternative to traditional payments methods is a relatively new trend, there is still the challenge of getting cannabis companies to agree on solutions that can standardize the trend.
In conclusion
Every business industry is now leveraging data by defining connections between the different data points and gathering actionable insights on processes. As such, you can optimize, strategize, plan, report, and identify problems using business data.
You can also better understand the consumer using data insights like your consumer consumption preferences. As such, data is crucial for determining where to invest, improve, and remain competitive and compliant in the cannabis industry.
FAQs
What is the future of the cannabis industry?
The future of the cannabis industry is very bright… The cannabis industry is expected to grow by about 20 to 30 percent every year to a value of $50 billion by 2026.
How is technology influencing the cannabis industry?
Technology is propelling the growth of the cannabis industry quickly. Cannabis businesses use innovation and technology to identify downtime in workflows, streamline processes, and identify opportunities for success and growth.
What is the role of data in cannabis manufacturing?
Data is critical for improving all the cannabis processes from seed to sale. Decisions driven by data significantly improve the quality of the cannabis operations from cultivation through to marketing, sales, and customer satisfaction. As such, data is now an integral part of cannabis manufacturing.
Joshua Gilstrap is the Marketing Manager for e2b teknologies, in addition to his marketing responsibilities Joshua leads business development for e2b teknologies emerging Canna Suite product line. A business graduate with a focus in marketing from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, he joined the e2b team in the Fall of 2019. Josh brought with him a wide array of business and practical experience in planning and execution. Since coming aboard he has led multiple project’s including website hosting and theme standardization company wide, marketing automation streamlining the efficiency of the customer journey, and sales automation where he is changing the conversation from promotion to education, from pitching to catching, and from push to pull in order to keep up with the shifting tides of a digital transformation.
U.S. Cannabis Business Conditions Survey Report Reveals Critical Concerns for the Cannabis Industry in 2022
by Beau Whitney, NCIA’s Chief Economist
As the largest national trade association of the cannabis industry, NCIA works to advocate for and advance the interests of hundreds of member businesses. The recent publication of the Whitney Economics U.S. Cannabis Business Conditions Survey Report offers a granular look at how respondents are feeling, and what they are worried about.
Survey description
There were a total of 396 respondents to the Whitney Economics U.S. Cannabis Business Conditions Survey. Respondents were either licensed cannabis businesses or ancillary businesses to the cannabis industry, and were from 20 states across the country. According to the report, the objective of the survey was to “establish a baseline of data, and identify the successes and the challenges that operators in the industry are facing.”
The survey examined policy, regulatory issues, industry successes, and overall industry sentiment using questions around demographics, questions intended to definitively answer a specific question, and questions with the opportunity to offer multiple responses or comments. We are pleased that NCIA members participated in the survey. Because this survey is intended to be conducted on a quarterly basis moving forward, we expect that a growing number of the NCIA membership will want to participate.
Key Takeaways From the Survey
Only 42% of respondents are turning a profit. Further, in terms of profitability, female respondents and non-white respondents are faring much worse than white, male respondents.
While 58% of businesses overall are not making a profit (either breaking even or losing money), 62.5% of female-run businesses are not turning a profit and 67.8% of BIPOC businesses are not turning a profit.
Lack of banking, market volatility, and state & federal taxation are the key issues facing cannabis operators.
72% of respondents stated that access to banking and other financial services was the top issue facing them.
Smaller operators are struggling by being pulled in two different directions. On one side is the competition from the illicit market that competes for the same customers as the smaller operators and the other side is the ever presence of big businesses looking to consolidate the market.
Taxation is an issue that impacts all businesses regardless of size. Cannabis operators run the risk of being taxed out of business. State policymakers are focused on state issues without considering the impact of federal policy and federal policymakers are not considering the state policy. This lack of a unified tax policy is creating strain on business operators.
The concerns of the industry are weighing heavier on the minds of operators than are the successes, and this is impacting industry sentiment.
Business owners are quite proud of their accomplishments over the past year, from increasing opportunities for women and minorities, to doing more for their workers and educating an ever-increasing clientele.
Despite this success though, cannabis operators’ concerns far outweigh their feeling of success and this is impacting the overall sentiment.
The word cloud on the successes tells a compelling story.
We are very excited that we have now established a baseline of new data that reflects operator sentiment and business conditions. This can help support the narratives with data when having policy discussions at the state and federal levels and to help shape strategy for operators in this space.
“We are delighted on how this initial survey turned out and look forward to surveying the cannabis landscape regularly in the future. We really appreciate the support we received from leading national cannabis organizations such as NCIA.” – Beau Whitney
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Joshua Gilstrap
As the largest national trade association of the cannabis industry, NCIA works to advocate for and advance the interests of hundreds of member businesses. The recent publication of the Whitney Economics