Business
by Ahsan Washington
The growing cannabis legalization movement in the United States is enabling Black entrepreneurs to establish businesses in an industry where they were previously underrepresented.
The growing cannabis legalization movement in the United States is enabling Black entrepreneurs to establish businesses in an industry where they were previously underrepresented. These dispensaries, led by legacy operators and social equity pioneers, are transforming ownership and reinvesting resources into their communities.
According to reports from The Emerald Magazine and industry advocates, these founders are bridging the gap between restorative justice and the multibillion-dollar cannabis market.
1. Gorilla Rx Wellness (California)
Key benefit: A mission of restorative justice that brings economic opportunities to areas disproportionately affected by the War on Drugs.
2. Simply Pure (Colorado)
Key benefit: Focus on ownership equality and selling clean, premium products in regulated markets.
3. Mary & Main (Maryland)
Key benefit: Reinvesting in the community through educational programs and workforce development.
4. ButACake (New Jersey)
Founded by Matha Figaro, ButACake is a prominent cannabis-infused baked goods brand. While it operates through dispensary partnerships rather than a standalone storefront, it is a vital part of New Jersey’s manufacturing sector.
Key benefit: Creating culturally relevant edibles and expanding opportunities for Black women in cannabis retail and manufacturing.
5. Smacked Village (New York)
Key benefit: Promoting economic development and second chances through community-focused ownership.
6. LOWD (Oregon)
Based in Portland, LOWD was established by Jesce Horton, who also founded the Minority Cannabis Business Association. The brand is known for premium cultivation and its commitment to environmentally and socially equitable practices.
Key benefit: Delivering top-tier cannabis while driving policy changes to diversify the industry.
RELATED CONTENT: Despite The Odds, These Black Women Are Blazing The Cannabis Business
dispensaries
Mary & Main
Gorilla Rx Wellness
ButACake
Smacked Village
black entrepreneurs
LOWD
Cannabis
Source: Black Enterprise
