Collective Works

Marijuana Matters has always harnessed the principle of unity to drive its mission, emphasizing the collective power of shared goals and communal resources. This philosophy is reflected in its programming initiatives, particularly evident in the launch of the M2 Boot Camp. The initiative captivated a wide audience, receiving applications from over 40 organizations and entrepreneurs who share Marijuana Matters' vision. Five finalists were selected out of these for their diversity and potential to contribute to and thrive within a supportive community. This selection process highlights the organization's commitment to fostering a collaborative environment where success is viewed as a collective achievement. The continuous support provided to these entrepreneurs showcases Marijuana Matters' dedication to cultivating success within the cannabis industry, affirming the notion that achievements are amplified when celebrated as shared victories.

Keisha J. Reed is the founder of Explore Maryland Cannabis , the Connected Ecosystem a full-service agency that specializes in sustainable community building, digital strategy, and talent management. Launched in 2018, Explore Maryland Cannabis, a membership community, provides pathways to the cannabis ecosystem in Maryland through access and education.

This collaborative ethos extends to all members of the Marijuana Matters community, including companies like 40 Tons Brand and Bouqé Rolling Paper who are on this shared journey of challenges and milestones, thereby enriching the collective experience.

Marijuana Matters champions cooperative economics as a vital strategy for empowering underrepresented founders within the cannabis sector. By leveraging the strength of collective action and shared resources, the organization offers a blueprint for success that is particularly advantageous for those traditionally marginalized in business. This M2 #cannabiscooperative model promotes economic solidarity, wherein the financial and professional growth of one member reinforces the collective well-being, creating a cycle of mutual upliftment and resilience. The model has been implemented in states like Connecticut by Patrik Jonsson who was introduced to the model during our time together in Massachusetts. We know it works.

Furthermore, Marijuana Matters' village approach is a powerful demonstration of how underrepresented founders can excel through community support. It epitomizes the belief that enduring change in the cannabis ecosystem is achieved not in isolation but through the concerted efforts of a united community. Other members of the M2 bootcamp include Sederia Gray Founder of LunaSol who successfully opened her first dispensary in Olive Branch, Mississippi through a franchise deal with Maryland-based Far & Dotter.

This strategy underscores the importance of building networks that offer access to mentorship, resources, and collaborative opportunities, which are crucial for navigating the complexities of the cannabis industry and achieving lasting success. Amber Norwood is known for her licensing application expertise and is unmatched in the industry – having won over 70 licenses for clients. Her implementational oversight and legal training allow her to leverage her legal background in this highly regulated industry to analyze statutes, regulations, and ordinances for cannabis markets across the country to create compliant and competitive applications and operations. She is the founder of

At its core, Marijuana Matters' mission and methodologies testify to the transformative power of collective action and cooperative economics, especially for underrepresented entrepreneurs in the cannabis space. Through fostering an inclusive, supportive, and collaborative environment, the organization not only aids individual successes but also contributes to the broader goal of achieving equity and empowerment within the industry. Ashley Jelks is a self-described black herbalist, engineer, educator, yogi + wellness advocate, and founder of one of the most exciting brands to hit the market, High Priestess. The company is celebrated for its curated high-quality, small-batch herbal botanicals that address the mental, physical, + sexual wellness needs of the many diverse communities. Rounding out the M2's starting line-up is New York own's Stacey St.Louis who has successfully submitted her application to the OCM and patiently waiting. In the meantime, her company Compact Comforts has identified a niche opportunity to create digital and in-person opportunities to fill the funding gap for small business owners in cannabis..

In conclusion, the stories of Ashley, Stacey, Keisha, Amber, and Sederia exemplify the transformative potential of collective action and cooperative economics in the cannabis industry. These founders are shining examples of how underrepresented entrepreneurs can thrive when supported by the tribe. By fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment, Marijuana Matters not only champions individual successes but also contributes to the broader goal of achieving equity and empowerment within the industry. Through its dedication to nurturing a small but thriving circular economy, Marijuana Matters will transition program support to other organizations with shared values and vision. To pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future for all participants in the cannabis space we must harness the power of collective works and build stronger connective tissue. #CannabisCommunity #Equity #CollectiveAction #MarijuanaMatters ??????