Benzinga - by Abbey Higginbotham, Benzinga Staff Writer.
Curaleaf (OTC:CURLF), a major player in the cannabis industry, is advancing diversity through its philanthropic arm, Rooted In Good. This initiative is focused on empowering minority-owned businesses by offering crucial funding and exposure opportunities. The 2024 Canna Founders Pitch Competition, organized in collaboration with Benzinga, is a central part of this mission.
The Canna Founders Pitch Competition The Canna Founders Pitch Competition, scheduled for June 17, 2024, will take place at the Benzinga Cannabis Market Spotlight event in New Brunswick, New Jersey. This competition invites cannabis entrepreneurs to present their business ideas to a panel of judges, aiming for significant cash prizes and further opportunities. Applications are open until May 28, 2024.
Empowering Minority-Owned Businesses The competition targets businesses that identify as diverse or minority-owned. Eligible companies must have a market-ready product or service and annual revenues not exceeding $250,000. This focus aims to address the challenges faced by underrepresented groups in the cannabis industry.
Winners will receive substantial cash prizes, with the runner-up earning $2,500 and the winner taking home $5,000. The top two companies will also advance to the Rooted In Good Cannabis Demo Day at Boston Cannabis Week on September 19, competing for an additional $25,000.
Broader Impact on the Industry The Canna Founders Pitch Competition is part of Curaleaf’s broader efforts to support diverse businesses within the cannabis industry. Rooted In Good seeks to create opportunities for growth among minority entrepreneurs by providing financial support and critical exposure.
The Benzinga Cannabis Market Spotlight event in New Brunswick is more than just a competition. It serves as a vital networking opportunity where entrepreneurs can connect with industry leaders, investors, and peers, gaining valuable insights and building relationships that can help propel their businesses forward.
Following the New Brunswick event, similar pitch competitions will be held at the Higher Conference in Philadelphia on June 22 and the Black CannaBusiness Expo in Chicago on July 26. Each event will select two top companies to compete at Boston Cannabis Week.
A Commitment to Corporate Responsibility Curaleaf’s Rooted In Good initiative demonstrates the impact of corporate philanthropy in driving positive change within industries. By focusing on diversity and providing tangible support to minority-owned businesses, Curaleaf sets a standard for corporate responsibility and community engagement in the cannabis sector.
As the 2024 Canna Founders Pitch Competition approaches, attention is on the innovative and diverse businesses that will shape the future of the cannabis industry. Through Rooted In Good, Curaleaf supports these businesses and contributes to a more inclusive and equitable industry.
Cannabis rescheduling seems to be right around the corner. Want to understand what this means for the future of the industry? Hear directly for top executives, investors, and policymakers at the 19th Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, coming to Chicago this Oct. 8-9. Get your tickets now before prices surge by following this link.
Now Read: ‘A Huge Milestone’: New Jersey Surpasses 100 Cannabis Dispensaries In Rapid Expansion
Image: Curaleaf
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