What’s the biggest challenge facing the cannabis industry right now, and how are you and/or your company addressing it?
The lack of compassionate cannabis programs is one of the biggest challenges facing the industry right now. Regulated cannabis is available in states across the country because of patients, yet I’m afraid we’re losing sight of them. Donation programs should be the norm, not one-off events. Patient advocacy is the foundation of legal cannabis, after all.
To address it, This is Jane Project has expanded our compassion work from California and Colorado to include emerging markets like Illinois and New Jersey. Together with partners across the supply chain, TIJP has facilitated the donation of over 100k units of compliant cannabis for women and non-binary trauma survivors. And, we’re just getting started!
Interested in how your brand can participate? Contact hello@thisisjaneproject.org.
Where do you see the most exciting opportunity for growth and innovation in cannabis?
The most exciting opportunity for growth builds upon an industry-wide commitment to compassion and corporate social responsibility. Brands are currently destroying thousands, if not millions of close to expiring units. And, there’s a patient-centered solution that has added cause-marketing value! Instead of spending valuable resources to destroy products, brands can partner with TIJP to host compassion events that support the women and non-binary trauma survivors, increase brand awareness, and make an impact in the lives of low-income consumers.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone looking to break into the cannabis industry?
My first piece of advice for someone looking to break into the cannabis industry is to remain elevated! It’s definitely going to be a wild ride. You’re probably going to meet some interesting characters along the way. So, I’d recommend seeking out and aligning with like-minded people, brands, and organizations. Secondly, take your time. Do your research. Who’s done what, why, and how are all important. Does the company you’re looking to work for or with have a Corporate Social Responsibility program? Do they support organizations like This is Jane Project? Do they have diverse leadership? Do they have a history of mismanagement? Choosing who you align with based on answers to questions like these can help you find your people faster and create a more fulfilling career in the industry.
What is the most important thing you have learned from your experiences in the cannabis industry?
The most important thing I’ve learned is that it is not only an honor, but a responsibility to work in this exciting and often elusive industry. Being on the ground floor of legalization invites us to take more responsibility. Responsibility for repairing the harm caused by the War on Drugs. Responsibility to advocate for decriminalization. Responsibility to demand safe and affordable access, product testing requirements, fair taxation, and more. We are the ones writing the future of this industry. What we do now will influence legal cannabis for decades to come and it’s a responsibility many of us take seriously.
What do you want your legacy to be as it relates to the cannabis industry?
Do you have a comment for Shannon?
