Social Equity in Cannabis

Social Equity in Cannabis: Why It’s Important?

The cannabis industry is booming. However, many communities negatively impacted by the war on drugs and marijuana prohibition are not reaping the benefits. This needs to change.

Legislation allowing for the legalization of marijuana has primarily benefited white business owners, while people of color continue to face prosecution for cannabis. Thankfully, many social equity programs now give everyone a chance to participate in this new industry.

Here’s why inclusivity and social equity in cannabis are so important.

Meaningful Participation for All

The cannabis industry will grow significantly in the coming years. According to a Grand View Research report, the legal cannabis market was worth $17.8 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow 25.3% by 2030. However, most of this growth may only benefit those who are already affluent and white. Barriers into the cannabis industry, such as high application fees and lack of financial resources, make it difficult for minorities and those with lower incomes to get involved.

With this industry’s rapid growth, it’s more important than ever that people of color have a seat at the table. After all, they were the ones most harmed by the war on drugs and marijuana prohibition.

These social equity programs provide opportunities for those who have been historically disadvantaged to get involved in the cannabis industry. This can include people of color, women, and veterans. Not only does this create a more diverse and inclusive industry, but it also helps to ensure that all share the benefits of this rapidly growing industry.

Improved Access to Capital

One of the most significant barriers to entry in the cannabis industry is access to capital. This can be a hurdle for anyone, but it’s nearly impossible for many.

Social equity programs address this issue by providing access to capital and other resources that may be otherwise out of reach. This level playing field gives everyone a fair chance to succeed in the industry.

A More Diverse and Inclusive Industry

The cannabis industry remains fairly new, which means there’s a lot of room for growth. However, as the industry continues to flourish and progress, it must remain diverse and inclusive.

Social equity programs help to ensure that people of all backgrounds have a chance to participate in this rapidly growing industry. This not only benefits those who have been traditionally marginalized, but it also helps to make the industry stronger and more successful.

What’s Next for Social Equity in Cannabis?

Social equity programs will become increasingly important as the cannabis industry continues to grow. These programs allow those disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs to get involved in the industry. In addition, inclusivity ensures that all share the benefits of this rapidly rising industry.

In the future, we must continue to support these programs and push for even more inclusivity and equity in the cannabis industry. Only by working together will we create a cannabis industry that is truly inclusive and provides opportunities for everyone to succeed.

Sources:

https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/legal-cannabis-market#:~:text=The%20global%20legal%20cannabis%20market,25.3%25%20from%202022%20to%202030.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/roberthoban/2020/08/31/the-critical-importance-of-social-equity-in-the-cannabis-industry/?sh=c90440c1a6db

https://www.healthline.com/health/social-equity-in-cannabis#The-road-ahead