As one of only two minority-owned cultivation facilities in Massachusetts, we’ve witnessed firsthand the complex evolution of cannabis equity in our state. Since recreational legalization in 2016, Massachusetts has attempted to create opportunities for those most impacted by the War on Drugs – a mission that deeply resonates with our team’s journey and values. When Massachusetts voters approved adult-use cannabis, they made history not just by being the first East Coast state to legalize, but by demanding social justice be part of the industry’s framework. The legislation mandated participation by communities disproportionately harmed by cannabis prohibition, though implementation of these goals has faced numerous challenges. The Massachusetts Social Equity Program (SEP) exists through several initiatives. The Economic Empowerment Priority review process and Social Equity Program were designed to provide assistance and expedited review for qualifying candidates from 29 designated Areas of Disproportionate Impact – communities that faced higher rates of cannabis-related arrests before legalization. Our journey as a minority-owned cultivation facility has given us unique insights into both the opportunities and substantial challenges of entering this industry. While equity programs exist on paper, significant barriers remain in practice. Access to capital continues to be a major hurdle, with traditional banking largely unavailable due to federal prohibition. Real estate costs in compliant zones can be prohibitive, and many municipalities have been slow to embrace equity initiatives. The fact that only two minority-owned cultivation facilities exist in Massachusetts highlights how much work remains to be done. Our presence, along with our fellow minority-owned cultivator, represents just the beginning of what true industry diversity should look like. We believe diverse ownership across the cannabis supply chain isn’t just possible – it’s crucial for the industry’s future. Looking ahead, Massachusetts’ equity programs continue to evolve. New initiatives claim to focus on increasing access to capital, expanding municipal participation, and streamlining the application process. As pioneers in cultivation equity, we remain committed to genuine industry change and supporting others on similar paths. For those interested in Massachusetts’ equity programs, particularly in cultivation, we understand the unique challenges you face. We’ve navigated the complex regulatory landscape and overcome numerous obstacles to establish our presence in this industry. Massachusetts’ cannabis equity journey represents more than just business opportunities – it’s about creating lasting positive change in communities that bore the brunt of prohibition. While the path forward isn’t always clear, we continue to advocate for and contribute to building a more inclusive and diverse cannabis industry.