Prices of groceries stayed the same and fuel prices as well, but there was one thing that President Trump did do on his first day. From the minute he stepped into office, he kept his promise to wage war on D.E.I. That includes hiring, wording, and any messaging implying diversity.

As soon as he made that mention, Amazon, Target, and many other companies followed suit and removed any mention of D.E.I. initiatives from their websites. The move could be a huge blow to big and small businesses. How will it affect an already struggling industry like cannabis? In a space where black-owned brands occupying dispensary shelves are sparse and black faces in c-suite positions are few and far between, there are many questions to ask as we move forward.

CashColorCannabis spoke to with Director of Events at On The Revel Saki Fenderson, Monko CEO Terrance White, and Little Beach Harvest GM Cory Williams about their feelings on D.E.I. reversals, how it can impact cannabis and what black entrepreneurs can do to brave these new waters.

How have DEI initiatives impacted Black entrepreneurs, employees, and advocates in the cannabis industry?

“There has been very little long-term success for cannabis businesses through equity initiatives from private and government agencies. Most of these initiatives lack all the elements for, or at least pathways to, lasting success like cannabis business specifics, strategic partnerships, accessible funding, entrepreneurship, and small business training.” – Saki Fenderson, On The Revel

“To understand the impact of DEI, we first have to acknowledge why these initiatives were necessary in the first place. Historically, Black Americans have been systematically denied access to education, financial resources, and business opportunities. DEI was introduced to correct these disparities by creating pathways for inclusion.

As an Afro-Indigenous man, I’ve personally experienced the reality of working three times as hard to exceed expectations, while others could do the bare minimum and still have an advantage. DEI efforts, when implemented correctly, provide opportunities not just for Black professionals but also for veterans and individuals with prior cannabis convictions who are trying to rebuild their lives in the legal industry.

Without DEI, how do we create equitable access? How does someone with a cannabis-related conviction, who has served time for something now deemed legal, find a way into the industry? We see Black individuals disproportionately incarcerated for cannabis offenses, while the legal market has historically been dominated by white men. I started cultivating in 2007, and saw firsthand how certain groups had easier access to capital, licensing, and distribution. While DEI is important in cannabis, I also believe its absence is felt just as strongly in agriculture—a sector that could have an even greater impact on Black economic mobility.” Cory White, Little Beach Harvest

How do DEI cutbacks affect existing social equity programs in cannabis?

“The full impact of DEI cutbacks on social equity programs in cannabis remains to be seen, but the warning signs are clear. Many states claim to support social equity, yet fail to provide the funding, infrastructure, or enforcement necessary to ensure these programs deliver real justice. Without financial appropriations, technical assistance, and policy enforcement, social equity becomes an empty promise rather than a pathway to real ownership and industry participation. In D.C., for example, social equity is often discussed, but without true accountability, it lacks the justice needed to make a meaningful difference. If states begin rolling back their commitments to social equity altogether, the already limited opportunities for Black entrepreneurs and communities most impacted by prohibition will diminish even further.” TW, Monko

“Honestly, equity programs in cannabis have been on the decline for almost two years. The current political climate has had little to do with it. Private funds, like the Parent Co. which lost over $575 million in cannabis, stopped offering equity funding in early 2024. New York’s social equity fund and relationship with DASNY was riddled last year with accusations of predatory lending, impossible interest rates, and problematic pro formats. ” SF, OTR

How are state and local cannabis policies addressing (or failing to address) racial disparities in the industry?

“Addressing racial disparities in the cannabis industry ultimately falls on state regulators, but the reality is, they pay attention only when it’s convenient. Most of the time, these issues are overlooked or deprioritized. When people of color do push for change, it’s often after policies have already been set—making it even harder to gain meaningful traction.

Many Black entrepreneurs feel disenfranchised by this system, and as a returned citizen, I understand that firsthand. There’s always a glass ceiling, an unspoken barrier that dictates who gets access to resources, opportunities, and decision-making power. Without intentional policy reform, equitable access to licensing, funding, and business support will continue to be an uphill battle.

Policies exist, but execution is the real issue. Social equity programs were designed to provide licensing advantages, funding opportunities, and business development support for those disproportionately impacted by the War on Drugs. 

However, many of these programs are poorly structured, underfunded, or delayed. In states like New York, social equity licenses were granted, but bureaucratic red tape and slow loan disbursement have made it difficult for many to open their doors. The biggest failure is that policies often acknowledge the disparities but fail to implement solutions that truly empower Black entrepreneurs in the space.” TW, Monko

What can be done to ensure Black voices remain a priority in cannabis, even as DEI funding is reduced?

“Ensuring Black voices remain a priority in cannabis—even as DEI funding is reduced—requires collective action. It’s not just about Black and Brown entrepreneurs; it’s about women, disabled individuals, patients, Native Americans, and all marginalized communities that have been historically excluded. We have to stand together, amplify our voices, and demand representation.” TW, Monko

“It starts with accountability. Consumers can be intentional about supporting Black-owned cannabis brands and dispensaries. Policymakers must ensure that social equity programs are properly funded and effectively implemented. Black cannabis entrepreneurs need to continue building strong networks, collaborating, and demanding a seat at the table. Visibility is also key—media and industry events should prioritize Black voices, not just during Black History Month, but year-round.” CW, LBH

How can consumers, policymakers, and industry leaders support Black-owned cannabis businesses?

“Buy Black! Support Small Business! Those seem like cute catchphrases, but it’s how communities survive. This isn’t just a message for consumers. This is for the business owners, too. Keep your business dollars in your community. Use your local contractors, local growers, and smaller distributors. The large companies do not get our children to college. And people want to shop near their homes or jobs. Black-owned businesses are usually small businesses, so keep those dollars in your cities and towns.” SF, OTR

What advice do you have for Black entrepreneurs entering the cannabis space today?

“Don’t rely on state or local governments for funding—secure your capital independently. Whether through private investors, community crowdfunding, or personal savings, financial preparedness is key to survival in this industry. 

Beyond funding, make sure you have access to the right resources and a strong support system. Mentorship is invaluable—connect with people who have navigated this space before you, whether they succeeded or failed because every experience holds lessons. In cannabis, knowledge is wealth. Understanding the legal landscape, business operations, and market trends will put you in a stronger position to not just enter the industry, but thrive in it.” – TW, Monko

“This is one of the hardest jobs you will ever have. You cannot do it alone. Find partners you trust. Learn as much as you can about the plant and the industry—all parts of it. And build your community inside and outside of the business.” SF, OTR

What advice do you have for Black entrepreneurs entering the cannabis space today?

“Understand that this is a long game. The cannabis industry is competitive, and success requires patience, persistence, and strategy. Build a strong network, align yourself with mentors who have experience in the industry, and be adaptable. Focus on what makes your business unique and don’t wait for permission—create your opportunities. Also, stay educated on policy changes and licensing requirements; knowing the laws can help you navigate challenges more effectively. And most importantly, collaborate. The more we work together, the stronger we are as a community in this industry.” – CW, LBH