Humboldt Family Farms is more than just a cannabis brand — it’s a testament to the legacy, innovation, and passion that define the heart of California’s cannabis culture. The company embraces the essence of sustainable living and regenerative practices, producing premium Sungrown cannabis that celebrates Humboldt County’s rich heritage.

From crafting unparalleled terpene profiles using a traditional wood fire curing method to curating their Private Reserve Program showcasing exceptional strains like Maui Waui and Sour Diesel, Humboldt Family Farms stays true to its mission: to preserve the craft of small family farms while delivering cannabis that connects people to nature and tradition.

We recently spoke with Scott Vasterling, the founder and owner of Humboldt Family Farms, to learn more about his personal cannabis journey and vision for the industry’s future. Here are excerpts from our conversation …

Can you share your experience in the cannabis industry?

In many ways, I feel the industry chose me. I’ve been using cannabis as medicine since high school in the late ‘80s. In 2002, I moved to the Sungrown cannabis mecca of Humboldt County to work for a Fortune 100 health and wellness company. That’s where I met my wife, whose family was involved in cultivation under California’s Proposition 215. Over the past 20+ years, I’ve seen firsthand the benefits of regenerative Sungrown cannabis and committed myself to promoting these family farms through policy, community, and now business via the Humboldt Family Farms collaborative brand.

What unique perspectives do you think athletes, entertainers, brands, and creators bring to the industry?

I believe authentic passion and commitment to one’s craft drives innovation and success. The perspectives of these professionals, who have spent tens of thousands of hours practicing, testing different algorithms, and visualizing outcomes, bring a positive influence to the cannabis industry.

What were the biggest highlights and most positive changes for you, and for the cannabis industry at large, in 2024?

2024 was a great year in the normalization of cannabis in California and across the U.S. In Sacramento, Humboldt Family Farms was one of the first cannabis brands to conduct on-site sales and consumption at a sanctioned state fair with our retail partner, Embarc. Corndogs, cotton candy, cannabis, and roller coasters — it was a highlight for us and a significant step forward for the industry.

On a personal level, being elected Chair of the Cannabis Advisory Committee under the California Department of Cannabis Control was a tremendous honor and opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

What are your predictions for how the cannabis industry will evolve over the next 2-3 years? What are you most excited about? What are you most concerned about?

Over the next 2-3 years, cannabis will continue to grow and become more normalized with greater access to markets. I’m most excited that consumers are becoming more educated about their cannabis, paying attention to where, how, and why their flower is being cultivated. They’re realizing it’s not all about the highest THC per dollar.

One of my biggest concerns is that we don’t fix Section 280E. Cannabis professionals and businesses should be treated fairly, and the vast majority of Americans support federal legalization. Without tax reform, small businesses will continue to struggle unnecessarily.

What are your top goals in this industry as we move into 2025 and beyond?

My goal is to continue creating solutions, both in business and policy, that help Sungrown craft family farms gain access and support with consumers at retail. Ensuring these farms have a viable path forward is essential for the industry’s sustainability and growth.

Learn More About Humboldt Family Farms

Discover how Humboldt Family Farms is championing regenerative farming practices and supporting family-run cannabis operations. Visit humboldtfamilyfarms.com to learn more about their mission, products, and vision for the future of cannabis.

Explore the Cannabis 50 List

Check out the top innovators, advocates, and trailblazers shaping the cannabis industry. Download the complete Cannabis 50 list now.

The post Q&A with the Founder of California’s Humboldt Family Farms appeared first on MGO CPA | Tax, Audit, and Consulting Services.

House of Puff is a women-owned, Latina-led brand transforming the cannabis landscape with stylish, design-forward products that blend art, fashion, and functionality. Based in New York City, the company champions a lifestyle where cannabis is seamlessly integrated into creativity and sophistication.

One of this year’s Cannabis 50 honorees, we asked House of Puff Co-Founder and CEO Kristina Lopez about the evolution and innovation of the industry — and the exciting future of cannabis as an everyday luxury. Here are her responses:

What are your predictions for how the cannabis industry will evolve over the next year? What are you most excited about?

The cannabis industry is at a pivotal moment, especially here in New York, where the market is still finding its footing post-legalization. Over the next year, I predict we’ll see a shift toward more consumer-focused products as brands work to demystify cannabis and meet demand for convenient, discreet options. We’re likely to see innovation in form factors like low-dose edibles, beverages, and sprays’ products that appeal to a broader audience beyond traditional consumers.

At House of Puff, we’re most excited about being at the forefront of this evolution. As a New York-based brand, we have a unique opportunity to shape how cannabis integrates into people’s everyday lives, from luxury lifestyle experiences to wellness routines. Products like our spritz and pre-rolls are designed with these new consumers in mind, and I’m excited to see how they resonate as the market matures.

What new innovations, trends, and products are you tracking and using or do you intend to use in your business?

At House of Puff, we’re closely tracking trends that reflect the evolving preferences of modern cannabis consumers — particularly those looking for discretion, low-dose options, and elevated experiences. We’ve noticed a growing demand for products that fit seamlessly into a consumer’s lifestyle, much like alcohol alternatives, and this is shaping our product strategy.

One innovation we’re excited to leverage is the development of mimic water solubility technology, which allows for faster onset and more predictable dosing in cannabis products. Our spritz, for example, uses this approach to deliver a discreet and consistent experience, making it perfect for microdosing and social settings.

Learn More About House of Puff

Discover how House of Puff is redefining cannabis and creating a space for art, culture, and social impact at houseofpuff.com.

Explore the Cannabis 50 List

See other up-and-comers in the cannabis industry who, like House of Puff, are leading the way in innovation, inclusion, and positive change. Download the Cannabis 50 list here.

The post Q&A with House of Puff: Redefining Cannabis Through Art and Culture appeared first on MGO CPA | Tax, Audit, and Consulting Services.

• Cannabis retailers are transforming dispensaries into immersive destinations, while celebrities and Tribal enterprises are reshaping industry influence.

• The rise of intoxicating hemp and global market expansion is unlocking new revenue streams.

• As regulations evolve, businesses that innovate — whether through experiential retail, brand authenticity, or strategic market entry — will define the industry’s future.

—

Each year, the Cannabis 50 highlights the individuals, companies, and organizations making a meaningful impact on the cannabis industry. This year’s list confirmed key trends prevalent in the industry that emerged as common throughlines among multiple honorees.

From creating memorable and engaging customer experiences to expanding into international markets, here are five notable trends driving the industry forward.

1. The Continued Prevalence of Intoxicating Hemp

Intoxicating hemp products have surged in popularity, with an increasing number of cannabis companies taking advantage of new revenue streams outside the traditional cannabis business model. These products can be sold in convenience stores, online, and through other mainstream distribution channels. Companies ranging from Curaleaf and Tilray to Uncle Arnie’s and Wyld have already capitalized on this trend. As regulatory frameworks continue to evolve, intoxicating hemp provides an avenue for brands to diversify offerings and reach new consumers beyond the confines of state-regulated cannabis markets.

2. Celebrity Cannabis Brands

From actors to athletes, celebrities are making their mark in cannabis, transforming what was once a career risk into a powerful branding tool. Names like Jim Belushi (Belushi’s Farm), Wiz Khalifa (Khalifa Kush), Snoop Dogg (Death Row Cannabis), and Cheech & Chong (Cheech & Chong’s Cannabis Co.) have launched cannabis brands that leverage their personal connections to the plant. Celebrities like Willie Nelson (Willie’s Reserve) and Ricky Williams (Highsman) bring authenticity and advocacy to their businesses, building brands that align seamlessly with their public personas. As celebrity-backed brands continue to gain traction, they help break down stigma and introduce cannabis to broader audiences.

3. Expansion Into Emerging Markets

As U.S. cannabis markets mature and the industry awaits rescheduling news, companies are looking to newly legal states and international markets for growth. Missouri and Ohio have seen rapid expansion in adult-use sales, with Good Day Farm and Cresco Labs securing strong positions. Meanwhile, global markets are opening up, with Curaleaf International acquiring Cann4Med in Poland and Khalifa Kush preparing to launch in Germany’s medical market in 2025. While expansion offers opportunities, it also brings challenges such as regulatory complexity and financial constraints. Companies that succeed in emerging markets are those with strategic planning and adaptability to shifting legal and consumer landscapes.

4. Tribal Cannabis

An increasing number of Tribes are solidifying their place in the cannabis industry, leveraging historical connections and economic opportunities. The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe established New York’s first Tribal licensing program, while the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians launched operations in North Carolina. In California, Redding Rancheria entered the market through state-issued license purchases. Organizations like the Indigenous Cannabis Coalition are playing a crucial role in supporting these initiatives by advocating for education, policy development, and economic empowerment within Tribal communities. Tribal cannabis businesses are not only expanding market access but also ensuring Indigenous representation in the industry’s growth.

5. Experiential Cannabis Retail

Cannabis retailers are transforming dispensaries into immersive destinations that blend entertainment, luxury, and community. In Las Vegas, Planet 13, the world’s largest dispensary, which already offered a restaurant and bar, recently launched the new DAZED! consumption lounge. Jardín, another Vegas hotspot, provides an upscale shopping experience, while West Hollywood’s The Studio Cannabis Smoking Lounge offers tableside ordering and live events. Meanwhile, The Woods, co-founded by Woody Harrelson, features private cabana-style rooms and a lush garden lounge. These experiential retail spaces are redefining the cannabis shopping experience, making it more social and engaging.

Looking Ahead: Cannabis Opportunities and Challenges

The cannabis industry continues to evolve, with new opportunities and challenges shaping its future. Whether through immersive retail experiences, Tribal-led enterprises, celebrity-backed brands, intoxicating hemp products, or global expansion, businesses that innovate and adapt will thrive.

How MGO Can Help

A top-50 CPA firm in the U.S., MGO was one of the first national accounting firms to develop and provide targeted accounting, audit, tax, and consulting services to the cannabis and hemp industries. We have helped numerous cannabis companies with their go-public and liquidity transactions.

Today, we provide industry-leading tax, accounting and consulting experience and a suite of solutions to help operators, regulators, institutional investors, and brands navigate the complexities of the cannabis and hemp industries.

Reach out to our team today to learn more about our Cannabis services.

The post 5 Key Trends Shaping the Cannabis Industry appeared first on MGO CPA | Tax, Audit, and Consulting Services.

Under Snoop Dogg’s visionary leadership, Death Row Records has evolved from a legendary music label into a groundbreaking cannabis brand, perfectly blending hip-hop history with premium cannabis products. With the launch of Death Row Records Cannabis (DRRC) and Snoop’s innovative dispensary, Smoke Weed Every Day (S.W.E.D.), the brand is redefining the intersection of culture and cannabis. 

To celebrate its roots and honor one of its most iconic artists, DRRC recently released a limited-edition collection inspired by 2Pac — a tribute to the deep connection between two hip-hop legends. Now available at the flagship S.W.E.D. Store LAX, the brand continues to make waves with its high-quality strains and packaging that proudly features the classic Death Row logo. 

We recently asked Tiffany Chin, CEO of DRRC, a few questions about the brand’s unique position in the cannabis space, the vision behind its expansion, and where she sees the industry heading in the coming years. 

What inspired the launch of Death Row Records Cannabis? 

Cannabis consumption is synonymous with music, and what better label to represent vibing with cannabis consumption than Death Row Records? Purchased and revitalized by Snoop Dogg back in early 2022, Snoop wanted to bring an easily accessible and high-quality brand of cannabis to all his fans and fans of music.   

What unique perspectives do you think athletes, entertainers, and creators bring to the industry?   

The different methods of access are always interesting to hear from megastars like Snoop Dogg. He brings an interesting perspective due to his longevity representing his love of the plant, as well as his global recognition around everything he does.   

What are your predictions for how the cannabis industry will evolve over the next 2-3 years? 

More and more consolidation and potential closures; from the ashes, rises the phoenix … hopefully with the history of the industry, new players can learn from any mistakes and side-step pitfalls that have been common for previous brands and operators.   

What are your top goals in this industry as we move into 2025 and beyond? 

Expanding the DRRC and S.W.E.D. brands nationwide, as well as internationally.   

Learn More About Death Row Cannabis 

Discover how Snoop Dogg is bringing the spirit of Death Row Records to cannabis culture. Visit deathrowcannabis.co or check out the S.W.E.D. Store LAX to experience the brand firsthand. 

Explore More Leaders in Cannabis 

Want to see how other innovators are shaping the industry? Check out the latest trends, top brands, and rising stars in cannabis today. Download the sixth annual Cannabis 50 now.

The post Q&A with Death Row Records Cannabis CEO Tiffany Chin appeared first on MGO CPA | Tax, Audit, and Consulting Services.

Since its debut in May 2020, Uncle Arnie’s has been revolutionizing the cannabis beverage market. Renowned for its eye-catching, retro-inspired branding and bold, vibrant flavors, this California-based brand has rapidly grown from its origins in the Golden State to reach markets across the country — including Nevada, Minnesota, Ohio, Connecticut, New Jersey, and more.

With its more recent venture into hemp-derived beverages, available for online purchase nationwide, Uncle Arnie’s is solidifying its reputation as a leader in the cannabis beverage space across the U.S.

We recently sat down with Theo Terris, CEO of Uncle Arnie’s, to explore the dynamic cannabis beverage industry and the exciting developments shaping its future. Here are highlights from our conversation …

Can you share your experience in the cannabis industry?

In general, it’s been a roller coaster. We’ve had our ups and downs as a business, and I never in a million years thought it would be this challenging, but I wouldn’t change this experience for anything. I’ve learned so much along the way, and I’m truly lucky to have the best partners, team, and family to help support me throughout this journey. The exciting part is that we’ve never been in as good a spot as we are right now. It’s crazy to think about how far we’ve come, but even more than five years in, it still feels like the first inning for cannabis beverages.

What were the biggest highlights and most positive changes for you, and for the cannabis industry at large, in 2024?

Drinking cannabis has become the buzz of the year! States like Minnesota, which have fully regulated THC beverages, have demonstrated the enormous potential of this category. Cannabis drinks are no longer just a niche product — they’re proving to be a significant and growing trend.

What are your predictions for how the cannabis industry will evolve over the next 2-3 years? What excites you most?

THC beverages are poised to go mainstream. Expect to see them featured in more bars, restaurants, wine and liquor stores, music venues, stadiums, and beyond. With such widespread accessibility, the stigma surrounding cannabis will gradually diminish, paving the way for broader acceptance and integration into everyday social settings.

What are your top goals in this industry as we move into 2025 and beyond?

As we move into 2025 and beyond, our top goals are to solidify our position as a leader in the cannabis beverage category, while also becoming pioneers in educating the market about the unique benefits and experiences cannabis can offer. We are committed to continuing to bring out the fun in cannabis, creating products and experiences that are welcoming, enjoyable, and approachable for all.

Learn More About Uncle Arnie’s

Find out how Uncle Arnie’s is working to reinvent recreational beverages. Visit unclearnies.com to learn more about their products, story, and vision for the future of cannabis.

Discover More Leaders Shaping the Cannabis Industry

Check out this year’s top movers, innovators, and trendsetters making waves in cannabis. Download the full Cannabis 50 list here.

The post Q&A with Cannabis Beverage Leader Uncle Arnie’s appeared first on MGO CPA | Tax, Audit, and Consulting Services.

Recently honored in the Cannabis 50, our annual list of businesses, individuals, and trends making a positive impact on the cannabis industry, Happy Munkey is redefining cannabis culture in New York City with legendary events and multimedia platforms like the Happy Munkey Podcast and Munkey Magazine.

What began as a private lounge has evolved into a legal dispensary, with founders Ramon Reyes and Vladimir Bautista marking a significant milestone this year by opening flagship locations in Brooklyn and Upper Manhattan. These spaces reflect their mission to blend art, advocacy, and community, while championing diversity and inclusion to ensure cannabis legalization uplifts those once marginalized by prohibition.

We recently talked with Happy Munkey marketing director Joe Pearce about topics ranging from rescheduling to innovation and what’s next for the company and the market in the coming years. Here are some excerpts from that conversation …

What are your thoughts on rescheduling and how it will impact your business in the near term?

Having two CAURD licensed dispensaries in New York currently operating, we’re glad to see the state of New York rolling out an equitable program. As far as rescheduling on a federal level is concerned, we’d love to see other states roll out a similar program — and would like the opportunity to work with out-of-state suppliers and brands. If rescheduling would allow us to advertise on more platforms and accept easier payment methods, that would be a huge plus.

Are you planning international expansion in the next three years?

We’re just getting our feet on the ground in NYC — our brand and story is built around this city — so we’d probably focus on opening more regional locations in the coming years.

What new innovations, trends, and products are you tracking and using/intend to use in your business?

From a consumer standpoint, some New York brands are really pushing out high quality and innovative products that are resonating with local customers and out-of-state visitors alike. From the marketing side, we’re finding a lot of vendors who offer solutions such as gift cards, compliant messaging, and out-of-home advertising opportunities.

Please share your predictions for capital markets in 2025.   

Inflation and possible stagflation [slow growth, high unemployment, and rising prices] are on a lot of people’s minds. The technology sector will continue to grow rapidly.

Learn more about Happy Munkey and their locations, products, and services at happymunkey.com.

Check Out the Full 6th Annual Cannabis 50 List Now

See what other movers and shakers, up-and-comers, and culture shapers were honored alongside Happy Munkey for their contributions to the cannabis industry over the past year. Download the Cannabis 50 list here.

The post Q&A with New York City Cannabis Company Happy Munkey appeared first on MGO CPA | Tax, Audit, and Consulting Services.

So, what’s next for the cannabis industry?

We asked some of the dynamic organizations on the 6^th Annual Cannabis 50 list to share insights on what they think the future of cannabis holds. Below are their responses.

How Will the Cannabis Industry Evolve Over the Next Year?

Tiffany Chin, CEO, Death Row Records Cannabis:

“More and more consolidation and potential closures; from the ashes, rises the phoenix … hopefully with the history of the industry, new players can learn from any mistakes and sidestep pitfalls that have been common for previous brands and operators.”

Joe Pearce, Marketing Director, Happy Munkey:

“I see the legal NYC market becoming saturated as more licenses get rolled out and illicit vendors are closed down. Brands will have to be creative with how they set themselves apart and provide an excellent customer experience.”

Kristina Lopez, Founder and CEO, House of Puff:

“The cannabis industry is at a pivotal moment, especially here in New York, where the market is still finding its footing post-legalization. Over the next year, I predict we’ll see a shift toward more consumer-focused products as brands work to demystify cannabis and meet demand for convenient, discreet options. We’re likely to see innovation in form factors like low-dose edibles, beverages, and sprays — products that appeal to a broader audience beyond traditional consumers.”

Scott Vasterling, Founder, Humboldt Family Farms:

“Over the next 2-3 years, cannabis will continue to grow and become more normalized with greater access to markets. I’m most excited that consumers are becoming more educated about their cannabis and starting to care and pay attention to where, how and why their flower is being cultivated and realizing that it’s not all about just the highest THC per dollar One of my biggest concerns is that we don’t fix 280E. Cannabis professionals and businesses should be treated fairly and the vast majority of Americans are in favor of federal legalization.”

Theo Terris, CEO, Uncle Arnie’s:

“Drinking cannabis will start to become more mainstream. You will start seeing it at more bars, restaurants, wine and liquor stores, music venues and stadiums, and more. With it being so accessible, the stigmatization will slowly fade.”

Deborah Saneman, CEO, Würk:

“Looking ahead, we predict the cannabis industry will continue to stabilize, with operators placing greater emphasis on scalability and profitability rather than rapid expansion. Advances in technology and data analytics will likely play a significant role in shaping how businesses refine their operations and adapt to evolving regulations. What excites us most is the growing recognition of cannabis as a legitimate and impactful industry, coupled with the increasing availability of tools to help operators succeed. However, we are also mindful of potential challenges, including persistent regulatory hurdles, restricted access to capital, and competition from the illicit market. Addressing these issues will require collaboration across the industry and a continued focus on advocacy, innovation, and education.”

See the 6^th Annual Cannabis 50 List

Curious about who’s shaping the future of cannabis and hemp? Download the Cannabis 50 now to get a snapshot of the leaders, influencers, and trends making an impact in this rapidly evolving industry.

The post 6 Predictions for the Future of the Cannabis Industry appeared first on MGO CPA | Tax, Audit, and Consulting Services.

See these stories, quotes, and more in the MGO Cannabis 50. 

Garden Society

Though native to California — more specifically, Wine Country — in 2022, Garden Society executed a capital raise that will help it expand its footprint across more of the United States. Amid a historically tight capital market, this company was unafraid to live its diversity ideas and baked a unique set of conditions into its raise. In the end, it secured a $7 million Series A, including an oversubscribed Special Purpose Vehicle comprised of strategic female investors and BIPOC angel investors. With the surge of capital in hand, this female-owned and -led operator plans to lean into its mission of catering to the power women play in educating and driving the acceptance of cannabis It has continued their mission in earnest, already expanding into Ohio and New Jersey.  

Christine De La Rosa

As a Latina woman whose company, The People’s Ecosystem’s, leadership is primarily comprised of people of color and women, Christina De La Rosa understands how important it is to challenge stereotypes and speak directly to underserved minority consumers. She’s been tireless in her pursuit of widespread diversity, equity, and inclusion, advocating for BIPOC cannabis representation, as well as more easily accessible capital. The founding and managing member of The People’s Group, founder of The People’s Dao, and The People’s Ecosystem, she also serves on the California Cannabis Advisory Committee and the New York Cannabis Industry Association Special Advisory Group for Social and Economic Equity and Social Justice.  

Vangst (Karson Humiston)

Hiring qualified talent has always been difficult in the cannabis industry — especially in tight labor markets like the one in 2022. And Vangst understands the complications that can arise when trying to staff a rapidly growing industry. The Denver-based company matches short-term and full-time workers with job openings at cannabis companies around the country. Vangst focuses on more than simply providing labor; the organization prides itself on building a network, as well as communities, of its employees in the greater scope of the industry. Its annual Cannabis Industry Salary Guide is an essential resource for human capital management. In 2022, it explored new ground and released the LGBTQIA+ Representation in Cannabis Report, leveraging its insights in staffing to show where the industry is improving and where it can close the gaps.

Nancy Whiteman (The Wana Brands Foundation)

When cannabis titan Canopy Growth Corp. acquired Wana Brands for a whopping $297 million, CEO Nancy Whiteman wasted little time in putting those funds to a greater use. With the launch of The Wana Brands Foundation, Whiteman is making a major impact. In November 2022, the Foundation announced its most generous donation yet: $3 million to Johns Hopkins University to conduct extensive research on the therapeutic benefits of cannabis and psychedelics, including for autism. The Wana Brands Foundation also made additional gifts to Out Boulder County’s “We All Belong” campaign; 16 Colorado organizations working to end hunger in their communities; nonprofits focused on social justice, including the Reentry Initiative, Last Prisoner Project, Expunge Colorado, and National Expungement Works; and research and education organization Realm of Caring.

Women Entrepreneurs Forging a Path

While the cannabis industry hasn’t traditionally seen many women leaders getting involved, it’s clear many are now paving the way with a vision for a better future — and the progress they’ve already made is tangible. We work to honor their contributions as we celebrate the entrepreneurs, visionaries, educators, and philanthropists currently making history in cannabis.

Minority disruptors are innovating and changing the cannabis industry with one distinct thing in common: perseverance. While the road to success hasn’t been easy, we’re proud of the work these leaders have done against the challenges they’ve faced. Learn more about the Cannabis 50 here.

The post Cannabis 50 Celebrates Women’s History Month appeared first on MGO CPA | Tax, Audit, and Consulting Services.

See these stories, quotes, and more in the MGO Cannabis 50.

Cannaclusive

There are few more passionate about inclusivity and social justice in cannabis than the leaders at Cannaclusive, who work to facilitate fair representation of minority cannabis consumers and help brands communicate with diverse audiences. Launched in 2020, the Accountability List and Cannabis for Black Lives work to address gaps in equity within the industry and highlight cannabis companies that have consistently delivered on their commitments to increasing BIPOC diversity and inclusion. In 2022, Cannaclusive, alongside Jasmine Mans of Buy Weed from Women, launched the CLIO Award-winning miniseries ‘Flowers for Mom,’ which shone a spotlight on the relationship between mothers and daughters. The organization also became partners with Tricolla Farms, a woman owned NYS CAURD cultivator. To “celebrate the culture of this thriving community,” Cannaclusive empowers minority cannabis consumers and operators by providing a voice and a platform for change.

Viola Cares

Former NBA star Al Harrington’s Viola Brands is an example of how to leverage celebrity power into a thriving cannabis brand. As his company grows, he hasn’t forgotten to give back to where he came from. He organizes charitable efforts through Viola Cares, a program that focuses on community engagement and support as it works directly with local and national organizations committed to reinvesting into communities hit the hardest by the war on drugs. Harrington has built Viola Cares to provide immediate support and resources to those in need, shape local cannabis industry policy, tackle social justice reform, and assist those with a criminal record with expungement and successful reentry into society.

Big Freedia

The proclaimed ambassador of New Orleans Bounce music, Big Freedia has elevated herself as a hip-hop artist, cultural influencer, and TV personality. Now, she’s seeking more ways to “get elevated” – this time, as a cannabis entrepreneur with the launch of Royal Bud, a premium cannabis line with fun product strains like Mardi Grass and Release Ya Wiggle. Why cannabis? Well, Freedia knows a lot of the biggest brands in the industry aren’t comprised of people who “look like her, like what she likes, or stand for what she stands for.” As a proud advocate for racial and gender equality, as well as LGBTQ+ rights, Freedia believes “anyone can be royalty,” and her brand, launched in August 2022, supports that mindset with a culture of inclusivity and positivity.

Wiz Khalifa

Multi-platinum selling, Grammy and Golden Globe nominated recording artist Wiz Khalifa’s first major label debut album was titled ROLLING PAPERS – he’s long supported cannabis publicly. Since then, he’s created a mobile app called Wiz Khalifa’s Weed Farm, which has more than 10 million downloads, and he’s stayed a steady advocate for a smoke that “stays true to the flower.” In 2015, he launched Khalifa Kush (KK), a strong balanced strain that allows everyone to “smoke like Wiz.” In 2022, he partnered with Trulieve to release KK in Florida, which expands his cannabis brand’s reach to nine different states.

Lil’ Kim

Known as a legendary artist who ruled hip hop to become the first female rapper to have a No. 1 single on the Billboard Hot 100, Lil’ Kim can now claim a new title: cannabis entrepreneur. In 2022, she disrupted the male-dominated cannabis industry by launching a designer line of strains called Aphrodisiak. The brand’s products were hand-selected and developed with Kim’s input, ensuring the passion her fans know her for is infused in each one. Credited with helping to open audiences up to the appeal of cannabis in her early music, she has long defied its stigma. Her company is poised to span the country, and, eventually, the globe, as she furthers her mission to: “Empower other women to be bold, courageous, triumphant and superbad.”

Stephen Marley

Founded by Stephen Marley and CEO Shelly O’Neill, Kx Family Care is the first all natural hemp-based personal care brand that’s safe and effective for the entire family. In the tradition of Stephen’s family legacy to teach about all the many uses of the hemp plant, Kx Family Care was a natural progression for the eight-time Grammy Award winner. Kx Family Care is a branch of Kaya Lifestyle, a conglomerate also owned and operated by Stephen Marley. Kaya Fest is the hemp education festival branch dubbed “The Annual Marley Family Reunion” where all things come together!

TYSON 2.0

Legendary boxer, entrepreneur, and cannabis advocate Mike Tyson recently announced his premium cannabis brand, TYSON 2.0, is collaborating with dompen™ and #BREATHEWITHME to support social justice initiatives. The group launched limited edition all-in-one vape pens and one-of-a-kind apparel and art. All proceeds are headed to #BREATHEWITHME’s nonprofit partner New Earth Life. This is the latest venture that demonstrates TYSON 2.0’s commitment to further social justice initiatives and building an equitable world. Also in 2022, TYSON 2.0 raised a series A specifically to expand its celebrity portfolio: and it worked. The company announced it was coming together with pro wrestler Ric Flair’s cannabis company, Ric Flair Drip, and four-time world heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield’s Holy Ear’s THC products, under a new parent company called Carma HoldCo.

Montel Williams

Veteran and media personality Montel Williams was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1999, and the painkillers he was prescribed nearly gave him an opioid addiction. It wasn’t until 2001 when his doctor suggested cannabis that he realized the plant’s benefits. This started a 21-year fight for widespread patient access to medical cannabis. Montel even spoke in front of state legislatures all over the country, long before medical marijuana was a popular political issue, to remove the stigma. His advocacy eventually inspired him to partner with Taunton Freshly Baked Company to create a new cannabis brand, Inspire by Montel. Announced in April 2022, the brand makes THC and CBD blended vape cartridges to help people with chronic pain.

Black Entrepreneurs Leading the Way

We recognize that the cannabis industry was founded and built by many Black people with a vision for a better future. We work to honor their contributions as we celebrate the entrepreneurs currently making history in cannabis.

The minority disruptors innovating and changing the cannabis industry all have on thing in common: perseverance. While the road to success hasn’t been easy, we’re proud of the work these leaders have done against the challenges they’ve faced. Go here to learn more about the Cannabis 50.

The post Cannabis 50 Celebrates Black History Month appeared first on MGO CPA | Tax, Audit, and Consulting Services.