The Healey-Driscoll Administration has launched the Cannabis Social Equity Grant Program, a new program through the state's Cannabis Social Equity Trust Fund within the Executive Office of Economic Development designed to support Massachusetts cannabis entrepreneurs from communities that have been disproportionately harmed by marijuana prohibition and enforcement.
The program will make available up to $25 million in grants to eligible marijuana establishments, medical marijuana treatment centers, and pre-licensed cannabis businesses.
"Today we are taking an important step toward growing our economy and addressing the harm inflicted on communities impacted by the War and Drugs," said Governor Maura Healey. "The Cannabis Social Equity Grant Program will provide vital funding to Massachusetts entrepreneurs and advance our commitment to building an economy that is accessible to all."
"This program will provide important resources to help cannabis entrepreneurs across Massachusetts start, scale, and succeed," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "We are excited to launch this program to support those who have been affected by past marijuana prohibition and remove barriers to entry for cannabis entrepreneurs."
"From day one, our administration has been committed to ensuring all our residents benefit from our economic growth and opportunity," said Secretary of Economic Development Yvonne Hao. "The Cannabis Social Equity Grant Program will play a crucial role in opening doors to fair access to our thriving economy."
The grant program is available to economic empowerment priority applicants or social equity program participants, including establishments with a provisional or final license issued by the Cannabis Control Commission, as well as cannabis businesses that intend to apply for licensure shortly. Grant award sizes will range from $25,000 to $500,000 and funding opportunities will be offered in four tiers based on license status and supporting the following goals:
- Tier 1: Entry into the regulated cannabis industry,
- Tier 2: Imminent or outstanding expenses essential to the operation of the business,
- Tier 3: Support for the acquisition of final licensure and commencement of business operations, or
- Tier 4: Funds to improve and expand the business.
The deadline to apply is October 17, 11:59 p.m. ET. If you wish to apply, click here.
Source: Mass.gov