Supporting Black Cannabis Entrepreneurs, Black Creators, and Addressing Injustices through a Nonprofit Partnership
Ben Cohen, the iconic co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s, is making waves in the cannabis industry with his new venture, Ben’s Best BLNZ (B3). In partnership with Jeannette Ward Horton and Jesce Horton’s NuProject, B3 is dedicated to addressing the injustices of the war on drugs and empowering the Black community in the rapidly growing cannabis market. B3 is registered as a nonprofit, and its unique profit distribution model ensures that 100% of the profits are used to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by cannabis criminalization and racial injustice. In addition, B3 actively supports Black creators in the industry, fostering a diverse and inclusive space.
Profit Distribution: How B3 and NuProject are Making a Difference
B3 splits its profits between three entities, with each receiving a share designated to support their respective missions. 10% of the profits go to the Last Prisoner Project, an organization dedicated to freeing individuals impacted by cannabis criminalization. Another 10% is donated to the Vermont Racial Justice Alliance, whose mission is to “secure sustainable power, ensure agency, and provide security for American Descendants of Slavery (ADOS).” The remaining 80% of the profits are administered in partnership with NuProject as grants to Black cannabis entrepreneurs.
This distribution model ensures that the funds generated by B3 are effectively used to create a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by the war on drugs and racial injustice. Through this partnership, B3 and NuProject are actively working to level the playing field and create a more inclusive and equitable cannabis industry.
Uplifting Black Creators in the Cannabis Industry
B3 recognizes the importance of fostering diversity and inclusion within the cannabis industry, not just for entrepreneurs, but also for creators. By actively supporting Black creators and providing them with opportunities for growth and visibility, B3 is contributing to the development of a more vibrant and diverse cannabis landscape. This commitment to uplifting Black voices and talents is an integral part of B3’s mission to drive change and promote equity in the industry.
Jeannette Ward Horton and Jesce Horton’s NuProject: Empowering Black Cannabis Entrepreneurs
Jeannette Ward Horton and Jesce Horton’s NuProject is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing minority entrepreneurs with the resources and support they need to succeed in the cannabis market. Through grants, loans, educational resources, job matching assistance, and entrepreneurial services, NuProject is helping to close the funding gap for BIPOC individuals who often face systemic barriers to accessing start-up capital.
By joining forces with Ben Cohen’s B3, NuProject is ensuring that the funds generated by the business are distributed effectively to support Black cannabis entrepreneurs. The collaboration between B3 and NuProject forms the backbone of B3’s mission to create a more inclusive and equitable cannabis industry. With the combined expertise of B3 and NuProject, the partnership is well-equipped to address the challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs and make a meaningful impact on their lives.
Tying B3 to Ben & Jerry’s Legacy of Social Activism
The partnership between B3 and NuProject not only reflects the core values of Ben Cohen and Jeannette Ward Horton but also carries forward the spirit of activism and social impact that has long defined Ben & Jerry’s legacy. As B3 carves out its place in the cannabis industry, it is championing progressive initiatives, promoting racial equity, and supporting Black creators. By blending the worlds of cannabis and activism, B3 is creating a unique space in which to drive meaningful progress. The brand’s dedication to addressing the disparities that exist within the cannabis industry speaks to the larger mission shared by both Ben & Jerry’s and B3: using business as a force for good.
Looking Ahead: The Future of B3, NuProject, and the Cannabis Industry
As B3 continues to grow and expand its reach, the brand’s dedication to addressing racial inequities, supporting the Black community, and uplifting Black creators will undoubtedly have a ripple effect throughout the cannabis industry. By challenging conventional norms and pushing for a more inclusive, equitable market, B3 and NuProject are helping to redefine the role of business in promoting social change. As more companies follow in their footsteps, the cannabis industry as a whole stands to benefit from increased diversity and representation. This movement towards a more equitable future will ultimately lead to a stronger, more resilient industry that better serves the needs of all its stakeholders.
Conclusion: A Call to Action for Businesses Everywhere
The inspiring collaboration between Ben Cohen’s B3 and Jeannette Ward Horton and Jesce Horton’s NuProject serves as a call to action for businesses across all industries to take a stand against racial injustice and to actively support diversity and inclusion in their respective fields. By fostering a more equitable environment for Black entrepreneurs and creators, businesses like B3 are not only making a meaningful impact on the lives of those directly affected but also driving positive change that will resonate throughout their industries. As more companies embrace this model of social responsibility, we can hope to see a world in which businesses are not only focused on generating profits but also on making a lasting difference in the communities they serve.
We reached out to Jesce and Jeanette for comments on their partnership with B3, but we did not receive a timely response.
