Oakland-based cannabis company Breeze Distro CEO, Amber E. Senter, recently announced the launch of a publicly-funded social equity kitchen that aims to support people of color in entering the infused cannabis market. The new program will help break down the high barriers to entry in the cannabis manufacturing industry, and it is the first state-funded cannabis manufacturing incubator for social equity business owners in the nation. The initiative is part of the social equity program in California and has received a $250,000 contract from the city of Oakland for the shared kitchen.
Introducing the Equity Works Incubator
The Equity Works Incubator is a one-year program that will enable five equity fellows to obtain a state license to operate an infused cannabis business. The program will provide each business with 1,200 square feet of commercial kitchen space, mentorship from seasoned cannabis executives, and training workshops on various aspects of the industry. The ultimate goal of the program is to “train, empower, and build capacity for full engagement in the cannabis market, especially for communities who have been historically targeted by the war on drugs to break into the legal cannabis industry,” according to Senter.
Breaking Down Barriers for Market Entry
The social equity kitchen initiative will eliminate the barriers to market entry for aspiring entrepreneurs in the infused cannabis industry. The industry has extensive infrastructure and regulatory requirements for producing and marketing edible and infused cannabis products, making it difficult for small businesses to succeed. According to Senter, people of color have been engaging in recipe development, extraction, and consumption of infused cannabis products for decades. However, Black- and Brown-owned cannabis brands reportedly represent only 3% of the cannabis companies in California.
The Edibles Category is California’s Fastest and Largest Growing Cannabis Segment
The edibles category is California’s fastest and largest growing cannabis segment, with a 20% year-over-year growth rate. The Equity Works Incubator program is expected to supply a guaranteed distribution channel to retail shelf space, according to Senter. This means that businesses that complete the program will have access to a marketplace that is growing rapidly, providing them with a competitive edge in the cannabis industry.
Virtual Grand Opening on September 15
The Equity Works Incubator program will hold a virtual grand opening on September 15. Aspiring fellows can apply to the program at https://www.oaklandcannabiskitchen.com/application, with a deadline of October 2.
