When it comes to the cannabis industry, the combined number of cannabis related businesses owned by African-Americans is miniscule when compared to those that are White own.
Being few in numbers doesn’t mean the brands that exist are silent. There are many Black-owned brands that are setting the standard for excellence in the cannabis industry and show no signs of slowing down.
For Black History Month, let’s take a look at 10 inspiring Black-owned cannabis brands that are raising the bar for excellence in cannabis.
Blunts + Moore
Based in Oakland Blunts + Moore is Oaklands first equity dispensary. With hopes of starting a franchise, Blunts + Moore could be coming to a city near you very soon.
Lowd
Talk about makin a dream come true. From growing in his basement to now providing craft bud for over 28 dispensaries, Jesce Horton’s Lowd can really become a gamechanger in the industry. With his expertise in growing, expect only the best bud to come from his is a 7,500-square-foot facility in Portland.
Gas House Brand
Gashouse or no house! The Gas House Brand name is already on par with the likes of Cookies when it comes to brand awareness. Strains like Runtz and Pluto have become some of the most sought after strains.
As the industry continues to grow, watch for Gas House to become even more of a household name.
The Green Toad Hemp Co.
Georgia took the national spotlight in 2020 thanks to the election. Expect Georgia to to also jump into the national cannabis spotlight sooner than later. When that does happen, The Green Toad Hemp Company will be ready to take the stage. Reginald Resse and Dwayne Hirsch, own the 17.5 acre farm outside of Metter Georgia where they produce and source CBD and CBG strains.
We spoke with the two last year about the farm and their aspirations to grow the brand past Georgia. So far, so good for the two.
Gipp Goodies
Who would ever think that we would see a mutant in the cannabis industry? Big Gipp, member of the legendary hip-hop collective Goodie Mob, has found a second life in cannabis. Inspired by his love of bud and wanting to find alternative medicines to help those around him, he launched his Gipp Goodies line.
Comprised of CBD pre-rolls, gummies and tinctures, Gipp recently opened a store in Columbus Georgia where you can purchase all products
Posh Green Boutique
Owned and operated by Reese Benton in the Bayview neighborhood in San Francisco, Posh Green began as a delivery service and opened their brick and mortar last year. It’s the city’s first dispensary owned by a Black woman.
UNOIA
Meaning “beautiful thinking”, Unoia is the brainchild of Danielle Gray and Brande Elise.
Established in Atlanta, Georgia May 2018, the company grew rapidly once the city got hold of their signature CBD honey and CBD agave products. In April 2020, Unoia has expanded its product line to include CBD oral drops, CBD Muscle Relief, CBD Soothing Salve, CBD Pet Treats and Tinctures.
SF Roots
SF Roots is a premium cannabis company producing a line of flower, pre-rolls, and oil. Founded by San Francisco native Morris Kelly, SF Roots is farmed with the cleanest ingredients and harvested in the fields of Mendocino County.
Viola
At one point, we really might argue which was better Al Harrington’s NBA career or the career he carved out in cannabis? Since jumping into cannabis with his company, Viola, Harrington has used his brands name to help other Black-owned cannabis brands. Everything from funding and collaboration to mentorship, Al has become a big name in cannabis. Expect to see Viola continue to grow its cannabis brand as it already has products available on the West Coast and in Michigan.
Ball Family Farms
Founded by Chris Ball, Ball Family Farms is growing to become one bigger names in the cannabis game.
Like many, Chris started out on the legacy market but has taken his skills learned and used them to thrive in the traditional market. 100% Black-owned, vertically integrated brand, Chris is on the verge of creating generation wealth off a plant that would’ve once landed him behind bars.