How This Cannabis Accelerator Is Turning Social Equity Into Big Business
A Smarter Approach to Social Equity
The cannabis industry has seen plenty of social equity programs, but few actually help license holders succeed. That’s where Health Advance Inc and SoEquity Corporation step in. Instead of just handing out licenses and hoping for the best, they’re taking a different route—one that actually sets up entrepreneurs for long-term wins.
Their accelerator program provides social equity license holders with mentorship, funding, and the kind of industry connections that make all the difference. It’s not just about making sure these businesses survive—it’s about making sure they thrive.
And it’s all being led by a cannabis industry pioneer with a track record of success: Calvin Frye.
Who is Calvin Frye?
If you’ve been in cannabis long enough, you’ve heard Calvin Frye’s name. He’s one of the most respected figures in the industry, having been recognized by regulators and legislators for his work in social equity, business development, and cannabis entrepreneurship.
Frye has been showcased by the Los Angeles Department of Cannabis Regulation and government leaders across the country for his expertise in helping social equity businesses succeed. He’s spent years on the frontlines of cannabis reform, making sure that minority-owned businesses don’t just get a foot in the door—but actually have the tools to build lasting success.
Now, as CEO of SoEquity Corporation, he’s leading a $75 million investment push to fund high-potential social equity businesses in cannabis and beyond.
Meet the First Accelerator Participant: InLabs2 LLC
Springfield, Illinois-based InLabs2 LLC is the first company to be approved for the accelerator program. Led by William Bishop III, a former U.S. Marine and well-known figure in his community, InLabs2 has the kind of potential that often gets overlooked due to lack of access to capital.
Through a joint venture agreement with Calvin Frye and SoEquity, Bishop now has the financial backing and industry mentorship to scale his cannabis operation.
“Calvin is a pioneer,” says Bishop. “I’ve got the license and the experience, but securing capital and expert guidance in this space has been tough. Now, with SoEquity in our corner, we’re about to show people what we can do.”
Why This Accelerator Model Works
Unlike traditional social equity programs, which often leave license holders struggling to figure things out on their own, the Health Advance/SoEquity accelerator follows a business-first approach:
Hands-on mentorship from cannabis industry veterans
Access to capital that helps businesses grow faster
Regulated market positioning in states with limited licenses
Shared success model that benefits both entrepreneurs and investors
The real kicker? Public investors now have access to these social equity ventures—something that hasn’t been possible before. Health Advance is working on securing a $75 million public offering under Regulation A+, meaning everyday investors can finally get in on the action.
SoEquity’s Bigger Vision: More Than Just Cannabis
SoEquity’s mission goes beyond cannabis. While the company is currently focused on helping social equity license holders succeed in the cannabis industry, it’s also looking to apply this model to other sectors, including:
- Food & Beverage
- In-store merchandising technology
- Other high-growth industries
The goal? To create long-term financial success for minority-owned businesses while delivering real returns for investors.
More Social Equity Deals on the Way
InLabs2 is just the beginning. With more applicants already lined up, SoEquity and Health Advance are proving that social equity and financial success don’t have to be at odds. They’re showing that when done right, mentorship and investment can turn underdog businesses into power players.
“I’ve been getting calls left and right since people heard about this,” says Frye. “This is more than just a program—it’s a movement.”
Health Advance President Larry McLachlin agrees, saying, “What we’re building has the potential to scale fast. And once we lock in the Reg A+ funding, things will go to an entirely new level.”
The cannabis game is changing, and the Health Advance/SoEquity accelerator might just be the blueprint for what’s next.
