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Cannabis Interviews

The cannabis industry is facing increasing financial pressure as investors become more selective with their capital. With fewer opportunities for early-stage funding, companies are finding it harder to stand out and secure investment. As the market evolves, businesses must adapt and prove their long-term value.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Investor Priorities in Cannabis</h3>



Dai Truong, managing director at Arlington Capital Advisors and upcoming speaker at the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/cannabis-conference/">Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference</a> shared his perspective on the qualities currently attracting investor interest. According to Truong, only the top-performing companies are making the cut.



"The bar is still incredibly high, and investors are looking for companies that are market leaders in their segment, i.e., top 3 players or a chance to capture tremendous market share," Truong said. He explained that many cannabis investors are limited in available capital, making it essential for businesses to distinguish themselves as leaders.



See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/41070338/hemp-under-siege-state-bans-and-farm-bill-to-be-discussed-on-sept-30">Hemp Under Siege? State Bans And Farm Bill To Be Discussed On Sept. 30</a>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Looking Beyond Traditional Cannabis Investors</h3>



As the pool of cannabis-focused investors shrinks, Truong suggests that companies look beyond the usual funding sources. He points out that family offices, which are still exploring cannabis investments, present a promising opportunity for businesses seeking capital.



"Companies that are able to go outside of the obvious cannabis investors. For Family Offices that have yet to invest in Cannabis but are exploring) will have the best odds of raising capital in the near term," Truong said.



Truong also mentioned that businesses with substantial intellectual property or those that have expanded into other regulated industries, such as tech, are in a better position to attract investment. "For example, companies that have leading tech/IP that started in Cannabis but have expanded to other highly regulated industries are in an attractive position—where investors are actively chasing them," he explained.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Growing Interest from Other Industries</h3>



Another trend Truong highlighted is the growing overlap between the cannabis and beverage industries. Arlington Capital Advisors also works with beverage companies, and Truong noted that hemp beverage companies have been catching the attention of investors in that space, especially as regulations surrounding hemp evolve.



"This provides a new pool of investors that are still optimistic about the industry and do not have companies in their portfolio that have seen a valuation markdown," he said. Truong&#8217;s insights offer a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities in today's cannabis market as businesses look for new ways to secure funding and grow in an increasingly competitive environment.



Now Read: 



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/41067503/has-medical-marijuana-been-forgotten-in-cannabis-reform-its-therapeutic-benefits-are-critical">Has Medical Marijuana Been Forgotten In Cannabis Reform? &#8216;Its Therapeutic Benefits Are Critical&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>



Photo: Courtesy of Kindel Media via Pexels

The cannabis industry is facing increasing financial pressure as investors become more selective with their capital.

Cannabis Investors &#39;Actively Chasing&#39; Companies Expanding Beyond The Industry Says Expert

As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, one aspect of reform remains consistently overlooked: medical marijuana.



Despite being the foundation for cannabis legalization in the U.S., medical marijuana is increasingly overshadowed by the conversation surrounding adult-use cannabis. This ongoing shift in focus raises important questions about the future of medical cannabis and its role in broader regulatory changes.



Joseph Lustberg, CEO of Upwise Capital, discussed the issue in an exclusive interview with Benzinga before his appearance at the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/cannabis-conference/">&nbsp;Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference</a>. Lustberg pointed out that while the adult-use market draws more attention due to its revenue potential, medical marijuana still holds a critical place in the cannabis industry and should not be overlooked.



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Medical Marijuana Pioneered Cannabis Legalization</h1>



&#8220;Medical marijuana seems overlooked today since it truly led the way for cannabis legalization,&#8221; Lustberg noted. He explained that the adult-use market naturally draws more attention because of its size and profitability. 



Still, he stressed that medical cannabis is indispensable for the overall health of the industry. 



&#8220;The sizable recreational market gets more attention now from a revenue standpoint. Medical also faces barriers like insurance coverage challenges,&#8221; he added.



Lustberg highlighted the importance of maintaining medical marijuana&#8217;s place in future cannabis discussions, especially when it comes to patient access and the therapeutic benefits cannabis offers. &#8220;Its therapeutic benefits are critical, so medical marijuana should remain part of the conversation,&#8221; he emphasized.



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">The Role of Medical Marijuana in Future Cannabis Reform</h1>



Although it may not be at the forefront of current cannabis reform discussions, Lustberg believes medical marijuana still plays a key role in shaping the future of cannabis policy. He sees medical marijuana as a bridge between cannabis and the health and wellness market, which could shift perceptions as the laws continue to develop.



&#8220;It can help frame cannabis as a health and wellness product as laws evolve,&#8221; Lustberg said. He emphasized the need for regulators to protect patient access, promote research, and ensure diversity in product offerings. &#8220;Regulations must protect patient access, research and product diversity,&#8221; he added.



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Looking Ahead: Medical Marijuana&#8217;s Role in Responsible Reform</h1>



Lustberg concluded by stressing that medical marijuana remains vital to responsible cannabis reform, even as recreational use takes center stage. 



&#8220;Medical marijuana&#8217;s place at the table is indispensable to responsible reform,&#8221; he said, underlining the necessity of keeping medical cannabis in the broader conversation about cannabis policy.



As Lustberg prepares to speak at the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/cannabis-conference/">Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference</a>, his insights highlight the ongoing challenges and opportunities for medical marijuana within the cannabis reform landscape. Despite the attention given to adult-use legalization, medical cannabis continues to be a crucial part of the industry&#8217;s future.



Photo: Shutterstock

Medical marijuana&#39;s role in cannabis reform is overlooked despite pioneering legalization.

Has Medical Marijuana Been Forgotten In Cannabis Reform? &#39;Its Therapeutic Benefits Are Critical&#39;

As the cannabis industry matures, investors are rethinking what makes a company attractive for investment. Early-stage funding has slowed dramatically, forcing businesses to prove their financial stability and ability to grow in an increasingly competitive environment. 



These shifts come as key states continue to drive the market forward while others face hurdles that challenge growth.



Seth Yakatan, co-founder of Katan Associates, provided his perspective on what investors focus on when evaluating cannabis companies ahead of his speaking engagement at the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/cannabis-conference/">Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference</a>.



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Investors Focus on Cash Flow and Expansion</h1>



Yakatan pointed out that investors are zeroing in on two main areas when assessing cannabis companies: cash flow and growth potential. In an environment where early-stage capital is drying up, businesses with solid financial health and expansion plans are more likely to secure investment.



"Investors are seeking cash flow and growth," Yakatan said. "If companies are not looking for expansion capital to fuel growth into additional markets or to grow in core markets, it is very difficult to find dollars."



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Catalyst States Leading the Charge</h1>



According to Yakatan, the cannabis investment landscape is particularly active in a handful of states that are driving industry momentum. These "catalyst states," as he called them, offer opportunities for companies looking to expand or consolidate their presence.



"Catalyst states (Missouri/New Jersey/Pennsylvania/Ohio/Maryland) are hot and will continue to blaze — no pun intended," Yakatan said. These states are emerging as key players, attracting both businesses and investors eager to take advantage of their growing markets.



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">California Faces Investor Hesitation</h1>



While some states present growth opportunities, Yakatan noted California is challenging for cannabis companies seeking capital. He attributed this to many investors&#8217; negative sentiment toward the state, making it harder for companies operating there to access the funding they need.



"California companies will continue to find capital markets challenging as the anti-California sentiment continues," he said. 



Yakatan's insights reflect the complex and evolving nature of the cannabis investment landscape. As investors become more selective, companies must adjust their strategies to align with these shifting priorities.



Photo: Courtesy of Branding Pot via Shutterstock

As cannabis industry matures, investors focus on cash flow and growth potential.

&#39;Catalyst States Are Hot&#39;: What&#39;s Driving Cannabis Investments In Key Markets

As cannabis reform continues to make strides in the U.S. and globally, the role of medical marijuana remains a critical issue in policy discussions. Despite its foundational place in the cannabis movement, medical marijuana has often taken a backseat to adult-use legalization efforts.



Bryna Dahlin, a partner at Benesch Law and chair of the firm's cannabis industry group, shared her insights on this topic during an interview ahead of her speaking engagement at the upcoming <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/cannabis-conference/">Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference</a>.



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">The Overlooked Role of Medical Marijuana</h1>



Dahlin emphasized that medical marijuana has become somewhat overshadowed by the excitement around adult-use legalization. "So many people use cannabis for stress and anxiety, as well as for fun and social activities, that they have blended into one another," Dahlin explained. 



While recreational markets generate significant revenue, she says medical marijuana continues to serve an essential purpose for patients who rely on it for conditions like chronic pain, epilepsy and PTSD.



Dahlin pointed to tax incentives as a driver for medical marijuana use in states like Illinois. 



"In Illinois, a medical cannabis cardholder pays 1% tax on their purchases, whereas an adult-use customer can pay over 40% in taxes!" she said. 



This stark difference in tax rates is incentivizing cannabis users to apply for medical marijuana cards, even if they primarily use the product for recreational purposes.



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">The Localized Nature of Medical Cannabis Policy</h1>



According to Dahlin, the future of medical marijuana will likely be driven by state-level policy rather than national initiatives, barring any changes in federal cannabis scheduling. 



"I think the trend around medical cannabis will be driven locally and not on a national scale," she said. This can already be seen in states like Illinois, where access to the medical patient market is restricted to only 55 licensed dispensaries.



This dynamic has created competition between medical and adult-use dispensaries, with some adult-use dispensaries offering discounts to medical cardholders to attract their business. "Some dispensaries, like one of my favorites — Karma Club in Lincoln Park — currently offer a 30% discount for adult-use shoppers who have a medical card. That's great for me, but terrible for the dispensary because alleviating the tax burden for me so they can compete means they lose 30% of the revenue," Dahlin noted.



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">The Future of Medical Marijuana in Cannabis Policy</h1>



Looking ahead, Dahlin expects the tension between medical and adult-use cannabis markets to continue, particularly as states work to balance regulatory frameworks. 



The issue will likely be a hot topic in the upcoming legislative session in Illinois.



"In the last legislative session, there was some ‘drama' around this issue, and I expect it will be a hot topic in the November veto session if a bill is up again for consideration," Dahlin said.



As the cannabis industry evolves, the conversation around medical marijuana remains essential to shaping future regulations. At the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/cannabis-conference/">Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference</a>, leaders like Dahlin will continue to explore the balance between recreational and medical cannabis, offering insight into the industry&#8217;s next steps.



Photo: Courtesy of BestStockFoto on Shutterstock

Cannabis reform is moving forward, but medical marijuana is often overshadowed by recreational use. State-level policies and tax incentives play big roles.

&#39;Medical Marijuana is Still Critical&#39;: Balancing Act Between Recreational, Medicinal Markets

The cannabis industry is watching closely as California Governor Gavin Newsom implements emergency rules that could severely limit the sale of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/41012794/gov-newsoms-hemp-ban-goes-into-effect-consequences-for-industry-investors-patients">hemp-derived products</a>. 



The potential restrictions, aimed at controlling hemp's accessibility in the state, have sparked concern among operators and industry experts, who fear it could create ripple effects across the cannabis market.



Luna Stower, chief impact officer at Ispire, weighed in on the proposed regulations ahead of her participation in the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/cannabis-conference/">Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference</a>. Stower, who has worked in the cannabis industry for over a decade, highlighted how these rules could stifle innovation and reduce economic opportunities in a state that has long been at the forefront of cannabis reform.



See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/41009554/tilray-brands-launches-hemp-derived-delta-9-thc-drinks-in-key-u-s-markets">Tilray Brands Launches Hemp-Derived Delta-9 THC Drinks In Key US Markets</a>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Impact of Proposed Restrictions</h3>



Newsom's emergency rules would impose stricter limits on hemp-derived products, including those containing cannabinoids like CBD. 



Stower noted that this move could hurt the growth and development of hemp-related businesses, particularly in California.



"Governor Newsom's proposed restrictions could have significant ripple effects across the cannabis industry, particularly in how we approach hemp-derived products," Stower said. She stressed the potential economic consequences, adding, "Limiting access to these products risks undercutting innovation and economic opportunities within California, which has historically been a leader in cannabis reform."



One concern Stower raised is that California, often seen as a trendsetter in cannabis legislation, could influence other states to follow suit. If similar restrictions were adopted nationwide, it could have a far-reaching impact on access to hemp and its derivatives, which are widely used for their therapeutic benefits.



"Moreover, if California, as a trendsetter, adopts these emergency rules, it could inspire similar restrictions nationwide, stifling broader access to hemp's therapeutic benefits," Stower explained.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Need for Clarity Between Hemp and THC Regulations</h3>



Stower also called for a more unified regulatory approach between hemp and THC products, arguing that clearer policies are needed to balance consumer safety with the need for economic growth in the cannabis space.



"We need more clarity and cohesion between hemp and THC regulations to avoid overburdening operators while ensuring consumer safety," she emphasized. Stower's comments reflect a growing concern within the industry that the regulatory landscape for hemp is becoming increasingly fragmented, creating confusion for operators and consumers alike.



As California&#8217;s proposed restrictions continue to develop, industry leaders, including Stower, are calling for greater regulatory clarity to ensure that the hemp and cannabis markets can thrive without unnecessary barriers. These issues are expected to be part of the larger discussion at the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/cannabis-conference/"> Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference</a>, where industry leaders will share their views on the future of cannabis and hemp regulation.



Now Read: 



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/41049042/with-70-in-favor-could-nebraskas-cannabis-program-unlock-underserved-markets-local-expert-weighs">With 70% In Favor, Could Nebraska&#8217;s Cannabis Program Unlock Underserved Markets? Local Expert Weighs In</a></li>
</ul>



Image: Benzinga Edit and Bureau of Reclamation (Wikimedia Commons)

&#34;Governor Newsom&#39;s proposed restrictions could have significant ripple effects across the cannabis industry,&#34; Ispire&#39;s Luna Stower says.

California&#39;s Hemp Restrictions Could &#39;Stifle Broader Access&#39; To Therapeutic Products, Expert Warns

Nebraska, one of the last strongholds of cannabis prohibition, is approaching a critical moment with medical cannabis initiatives set to appear on the November 2024 ballot. In an exclusive interview with Benzinga Cannabis, Paula Savchenko, Esq., founding partner of Cannacore Group and PS Law Group, discussed the main obstacles, how the proposed program addresses patient needs and the potential opportunities for investors in this emerging market.



<ul>
<li>Get Benzinga's exclusive analysis and the top news about the cannabis industry and markets daily in your inbox for free. Subscribe to our newsletter&nbsp;<a href="https://newsletteremail.benzinga.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>. You can&#8217;t afford to miss out if you're serious about the business.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Legal Challenges Leading Up To The 2024 Election</h3>



There are two separate initiatives in Nebraska related to medical cannabis. While one initiative focuses on the legalization of medical cannabis for patients, the other addresses the regulation of the medical cannabis industry. This strategy was employed to avoid violating the single-subject rule, which had caused <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/22/09/28721599/another-setback-for-nebraska-cannabis-activists-federal-appeals-courts-ruling-is-not-in-their-fa">issues</a> during earlier attempts to get the initiative on the ballot​. 



The Nebraska Medical Cannabis initiatives are facing significant legal challenges. "The primary issues stem from questions about the validity of signatures and the violation of the single-subject rule," Savchenko explained.&nbsp;



Led by former Senator John Kuehn and Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM), these challenges seek to remove the initiative from the ballot. While fraudulent signatures in Hall County have raised concerns, Savchenko noted, "the petitions were still certified, meeting the threshold." She remains optimistic, given that polls show 70% of Nebraskans support medical cannabis legalization.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Patient Needs&nbsp;</h3>



The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/40884022/nebraska-medical-cannabis-legalization-heads-into-november-election-amid-signature-controversy">Nebraska Medical Cannabis Protection Act</a> aims to provide flexible access to medical cannabis for patients. "Rather than a restrictive list of qualifying conditions, it allows practitioners to recommend cannabis based on their judgment," Savchenko shared.&nbsp;



This opens the door to a wider range of patients and ensures they have access to various product forms, including flowers, topicals, and edibles.&nbsp;



"With over 17% of the state of Nebraska being rural, regulators will have to ensure patients can access cannabis throughout the state, which may be in the form of permitting delivery services and/or designating the number of dispensaries to be placed in specific areas," she noted.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Timeline&nbsp;</h3>



If the initiatives pass, Nebraska's medical cannabis program could begin as early as Summer 2026. "The Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission is expected to establish regulations by July 2025 and begin granting licenses by October 2025," Savchenko said. However, she warns that delays are possible due to rule-making, litigation, and licensing processes, which could affect the timeline.



Read Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/08/40665093/medical-marijuana-will-be-on-the-november-ballot-in-nebraska-officials-confirm"> Medical Marijuana Will Be On The November Ballot In Nebraska, Officials Confirm</a>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">How Big Is The Market?</h3>



Nebraska's medical cannabis market holds significant potential, particularly as one of the last states to legalize it. Drawing on the experience of similar states, Nebraska could see substantial growth if the program is patient-friendly and accessible.



Savchenko highlighted Mississippi, which legalized medical cannabis in 2022, as a point of comparison. "In Mississippi's first year, 32,000 patients registered, generating over $44 million in sales," she explained. The state also netted nearly $950,000 in excise tax and over $2 million in sales tax. With 393 medical cannabis establishments in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/08/39996488/cannabis-in-the-deep-south-this-mississippi-company-delivers-more-bud-for-the-buck-to-medical-mar">Mississippi</a> during the first year, job creation surged as the industry expanded.



"If Nebraska law maintains an inclusive list of qualifying conditions and ensures patient accessibility throughout the state, the state is poised to see similar numbers to that of Mississippi," Savchenko noted. Ensuring access through delivery services or strategically located dispensaries will be key, especially for rural patients. Additionally, a wide product range, including topicals, edibles, and flowers, will appeal to a broad patient base.



Nebraska's location next to restrictive states like Iowa and<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/04/38031750/medical-cannabis-bill-killed-in-kansas-total-ban-still-holds"> Kansas</a> opens further growth opportunities. Savchenko emphasizes that "operators in Nebraska could also serve underserved communities from neighboring states," adding another layer of market potential for businesses and investors.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Opportunities For Businesses Entering The Market</h3>



For businesses, early positioning in Nebraska's medical cannabis market could be key to long-term success. "Operators who enter early can capture substantial market share before competitors flood in," Savchenko emphasized.&nbsp;



Furthermore, being surrounded by states like Iowa and Kansas with restrictive cannabis laws creates an opportunity for Nebraska to serve underserved markets.&nbsp;



Savchenko advises companies to start preparing now by consulting experts, understanding regulations, and building local partnerships to ensure a successful application process. "Even though the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Regulation Act requires regulations to be finalized by July 1, 2025, prospective business operators should begin preparing now,"<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-savchenko-a251ab64/"> Savchenko </a>concluded.&nbsp;



Read Next:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/40859403/former-gop-senator-wants-to-stop-cannabis-ballot-in-nebraska-lawsuit-targets-secretary-of-state-"> Former GOP Senator Wants To Stop Cannabis Ballot In Nebraska: Lawsuit Targets Secretary Of State Over Medical Marijuana Petitions</a>

The Nebraska Medical Cannabis Protection Act aims to provide flexible access to cannabis. Paula Savchenko, Esq. weighs in from the ground.

With 70% In Favor, Could Nebraska&#39;s Cannabis Program Unlock Underserved Markets? Local Expert Weighs In

For NBA star turned cannabis entrepreneur Al Harrington, the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/41011619/it-takes-a-village-to-build-generational-wealth-nbas-al-harrington-on-his-full-circle-moment-and">opening of Village Dispensary in Hoboken</a>, New Jersey, represents much more than just business expansion. It&#8217;s part of a mission to rectify historical wrongs and empower the communities most affected by the <a href="https://drupal-cloudfront.benzinga.com/topic/war-on-drugs">War on Drugs</a>. Harrington's personal story and connection to the cannabis industry are intertwined with his desire to create generational wealth for marginalized communities.



Village Dispensary is part of Village Brands, Harrington's latest venture, and it brings a unique approach to the saturated cannabis market. With a philosophy rooted in community and empowerment, Harrington is determined to carve out a new path for the industry.



"When we were thinking about what to name the stores, we realized, Coca-Cola doesn't have Coca-Cola stores. And retailers might not like it if your brand is also the name of a dispensary,&#8221; Harrington explains in an exclusive interview with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/cannabis">Benzinga Cannabis</a>. This was the inspiration behind the name &#8220;Village,&#8221; which reflects unity, growth and collective progress. "We've been bringing people together for the last 13 years through this magnificent opportunity to work with the cannabis plant, and it takes a village to do anything great," he adds.



&#x2A; This is part 2 of a 3-article series with Al Harrington. Check out part 1 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/41011619/it-takes-a-village-to-build-generational-wealth-nbas-al-harrington-on-his-full-circle-moment-and">here</a> (<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/41011619/it-takes-a-village-to-build-generational-wealth-nbas-al-harrington-on-his-full-circle-moment-and">&#8216;It Takes A Village…To Build Generational Wealth&#8217;: NBA&#8217;s Al Harrington On His Full Circle Moment And Opening NJ Cannabis Dispensary</a>) and follow <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/cannabis">Benzinga Cannabis</a> to catch part 3.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Empowering Communities Hit By Prohibition</h3>



Village Dispensary's opening in Hoboken marks a key step in Harrington's larger plan to empower communities that have been disproportionately impacted by cannabis prohibition. The dispensary symbolizes progress and justice for people of color, especially those who have faced the harshest consequences of the drug war.



&#8220;This is a way for us to get generational wealth,&#8221; Harrington says, reflecting on the need to create opportunities for people of color to thrive in the cannabis space. His advocacy for inclusion goes far beyond typical business objectives, tapping into a desire for justice and fair representation in an industry that has long excluded those most affected by prohibition.



Harrington's passion for using the cannabis industry as a platform for change is personal, and it's evident in his approach to business. "We don't forget the people that were mostly harmed and negatively affected by it," he says. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Experience, Education, Empowerment</h3>



At the core of Harrington's ethos for Village Dispensary is the belief that the business should offer more than just cannabis products—it should provide an experience built on education and empowerment. He's keenly aware that the cannabis consumer base has diversified, from novices to seasoned veterans. That's why the dispensary places a heavy emphasis on educating both customers and staff.



"We require all of our budtenders to do vendor days, where the brands come in and explain exactly who they are, the ethos of their company, how they started it, and then give background on all of their products," Harrington told Benzinga. This emphasis on knowledge-sharing goes beyond typical retail training. It's about ensuring that staff can provide informed guidance to customers. "They [the budtenders] can really have real conversations with the customers to make sure that they're getting what they're looking for and what they actually need.&#8221; 



Harrington understands that the cannabis space can be intimidating for new consumers, particularly older customers or those who are unfamiliar with it the new industry. Village Dispensary aims to break down those barriers. Harrington shares stories of customers who have rediscovered cannabis as a medicinal alternative after decades of abstaining.



&#8220;Some of them say, ‘I haven't smoked a joint in 30 or 40 years,' or, ‘I'm so happy that I can actually use this instead of taking these pills because it makes me feel this way compared to when I use this.'" Harrington recounted stories that highlight the impact cannabis can have as a medical alternative.



These stories reflect the shifting perception of cannabis, one that Harrington has been a part of shaping. He doesn't just see cannabis as a product to sell but rather as a tool to address problems people have faced for decades. And as more consumers discover the benefits of cannabis, Harrington is confident that the stigmas attached to it will continue to fade.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">&#8216;Be Impactful First, Make Money Second&#8216;</h3>



While the Hoboken location is a significant milestone for Village Brands, it's just one piece of Harrington's broader vision. He&#8217;s already established a foothold on the West Coast with operations in California and Colorado and expanded to states like Illinois and Missouri. But New Jersey holds a special place in Harrington's heart, as it's where his journey with cannabis began.



&#8220;My grandmother is from Irvington. My other grandmother, they lived in East Orange. So I definitely have family and connection to a lot of different places in Jersey,&#8221; Harrington says. Opening a dispensary in his home state brings his career full circle, but he is far from finished.



Harrington is already looking toward expanding Village Brands into other states. New York, Virginia, Florida and Georgia are all on his radar. However, his expansion strategy goes beyond opening more stores. &#8220;The strategy is always to find something that can be impactful first and make money second," Harrington explains. 



Harrington's long-term vision for Village Brands is deeply rooted in empowerment, education, and creating lasting opportunities for communities that have been historically marginalized. As Village Dispensary continues to expand, Harrington remains committed to using his business as a vehicle for change, ensuring that the cannabis industry becomes more inclusive and accessible.



Photo courtesy of Village Brands

Al Harrington opens Village Dispensary in NJ, aiming to empower communities and reshape cannabis industry.

NBA&#39;s Al Harrington: &#39;We Don&#39;t Forget Those Harmed By Cannabis Prohibition,&#39; Our Mission Is Impact Before Profit

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Learn about the future of the cannabis industry at the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/cannabis-conference/">Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference</a> this October 8-9 in Chicago. 
Hear directly from key industry players and policymakers. Get your tickets now by following <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/benzinga-capital-conference-cannabis-fall-2024-tickets-858948065787?aff=oddtdtcreator/">this link</a>.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/cannabis-conference/">More info and tickets on bzcannabis.com – Prices will increase very soon!</a>

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The Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference is Coming to Chicago

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