One of the largest grant programs of its kind nationally for cannabis entrepreneurs from communities harmed by War on Drugs

BOSTON - On September 24, 2024, the Healey-Driscoll Administration launched the Cannabis Social Equity Grant Program, a new program through the state’s Cannabis Social Equity Trust Fund within the Executive Office of Economic Development designed to support Massachusetts cannabis entrepreneurs from communities that have been disproportionately harmed by marijuana prohibition and enforcement.  

The program will make available up to $25 million in grants to eligible marijuana establishments, medical marijuana treatment centers, and pre-licensed cannabis businesses.

“Today we are taking an important step toward growing our economy and addressing the harm inflicted on communities impacted by the War and Drugs,” said Governor Maura Healey. “The Cannabis Social Equity Grant Program will provide vital funding to Massachusetts entrepreneurs and advance our commitment to building an economy that is accessible to all.”

“This program will provide important resources to help cannabis entrepreneurs across Massachusetts start, scale, and succeed,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “We are excited to launch this program to support those who have been affected by past marijuana prohibition and remove barriers to entry for cannabis entrepreneurs.”

“From day one, our administration has been committed to ensuring all our residents benefit from our economic growth and opportunity,” said Secretary of Economic Development Yvonne Hao. “The Cannabis Social Equity Grant Program will play a crucial role in opening doors to fair access to our thriving economy.” 

The grant program is available to economic empowerment priority applicants or social equity program participants, including establishments with a provisional or final license issued by the Cannabis Control Commission, as well as cannabis businesses that intend to apply for licensure in the near future. Grant award sizes will range from $25,000 to $500,000 and funding opportunities will be offered in four tiers based on license status and supporting the following goals:

- Tier 1: Entry into the regulated cannabis industry,
- Tier 2: Imminent or outstanding expenses essential to the operation of the business,
- Tier 3: Support for the acquisition of final licensure and commencement of business operations, or
- Tier 4: Funds to improve and expand the business.

The deadline to apply is October 17, 11:59 p.m. ET. Visit the Cannabis Social Equity Grant Program webpage for more information on how to apply.

“Roughly two years ago, my fellow board members and I were sworn in to the very first established Massachusetts Cannabis Social Equity Advisory Board. Under much scrutiny, but with enthusiasm, dedication, and years of experience we committed to partnering with a great team at The Executive Office of Economic Development to shape and influence what social equity should look like, while also helping to shine light on why these types of programs are crucial for the industry and the marginalized people and communities they serve,” said Cannabis Social Equity Advisory Board Chair Keisha Brice. “Today I can proudly say, that this grant program is a positive result of those efforts and commitment.”

"This second round of funding is substantial, reflecting the administration's concerted effort to address social inequities in the cannabis industry while aiding those who have been affected by its past policing," said Co-Chair of the Joint Committee on Cannabis Policy Senator Adam Gomez (D-Springfield). "I am glad to see that the full funding amount is able to be accessed by these grants, which will support entrepreneurs along each step of their journey towards achieving success in a crowded field. It's important that we lift these individuals up to ensure they are able to take advantage of the new market, and this grant funding will do just that." 

“The Cannabis Social Equity Grant Program demonstrates the Commonwealth’s continuing objective to promote equitable participation in the cannabis industry,” said Co-Chair of the Joint Committee on Cannabis Policy Representative Dan Donahue (D-Worcester). “I would like to thank Speaker Mariano for his leadership and commitment to passing the legislation that created the Social Equity Trust Fund. This first full investment reflects the tireless work put in by the Social Equity Advisory Board, other stakeholders, and my colleagues in the Legislature.” 

The Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED) is charged with administering the Cannabis Social Equity Trust Fund in consultation with the Cannabis Social Equity Advisory Board, which was created by the legislature to work with and advise EOED on the promulgation of regulations to govern and administer the Trust Fund. In April 2024, the Healey-Driscoll administration announced $2.4 million in grant funding from the Cannabis Social Equity Trust Fund to support eligible cannabis social equity license holders with urgent financial needs. Visit the Cannabis Social Equity Trust Fund website for more information.