Department of Commerce Technical Assistance Grant Update
The Social Equity Team at the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board is excited to share that the Department of Commerce has awarded Launch Industries LLC with a contract to administer the Cannabis Social Equity Technical Assistance grant program!
The following is a statement from the Department of Commerce:
“A Washington State company, Launch Industries LLC, has been awarded a contract by the Washington State Department of Commerce to lead the charge in advancing social equity within the cannabis industry through the Social Equity Cannabis Program. As a Seattle-based social enterprise deeply committed to fostering inclusive workplaces and driving positive change, the team at Launch Industries, led by fifth-generation Washingtonian Monica Colgan, reports that they are honored to undertake this pivotal initiative.
Monica noted, “Our entire team is made of women and minority business owners (WMBE), and we are working together in recognition of economic barriers to the BIPOC and other marginalized communities who have been harmed by the war on drugs. Via these retail cannabis programs and in partnership with the Department of Commerce and the LCB, we aim to create a cohesive grant and mentorship program for the current and future Social Equity Retail License Holders. We are also creating an online learning program that is accessible to all Washingtonians wanting to better understand what it takes to open a retail cannabis shop. This program — and everything it stands for — dovetails with Launch’s own company values. We are already connecting with other individuals who are working toward a better, more equitable future in Washington’s cannabis industry.”
As this journey continues, you are invited to help shape the future of Washington’s cannabis industry. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or a budding enthusiast, there’s a place for you in these programs and the cannabis community. To add yourself to the WA Social Equity Cannabis Program newsletter, click HERE. Working together, we will continue to grow and cultivate a more equitable and inclusive cannabis economy. Please note that the program website will go live on April 1, 2024, at launchmycannabiz.com.”
Thank you to Launch Industries LLC and the Department of Commerce for providing this statement. Please continue to monitor our blog for additional program updates!
