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Joint Ventures Pathway Program (JVPP)
The Cannabis Regulatory Agency's social equity team has announced the creation of the Joint Ventures Pathway Program (JVPP). Based on a recommendation made by the Racial Equity Advisory Workgroup earlier this year, the JVPP will connect eligible social equity participants - and those seeking to become social equity participants - with adult-use licensees, potential adult-use licensees, and any businesses that wish to work with social equity participants interested in pursuing partnerships, including:
- Joint business ventures
- Mentorships
- Incubator programs
- Employment
As the agency responsible for implementing and administering the laws governing commercial licensure of the marijuana industry in Michigan, the Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) recognizes the importance of equity in opportunity for businesses operating in this newly legalized industry.
The Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marijuana Act - passed by Michigan voters in 2018 - directed the CRA to create a plan "to promote and encourage participation in the marijuana industry by people from communities that have been disproportionately impacted by marijuana prohibition and enforcement and to positively impact those communities."
As the CRA implemented and expanded this plan, it became clear that the broad language of the statute was not enough to address the specific issue of racial inequities within the commercial industry. Accordingly, the CRA established a Racial Equity Advisory Workgroup, composed of state and local officials and industry stakeholders. This workgroup was charged with developing policy ideas and recommendations to address the disparities in ownership and participation in the marijuana industry by people of color and establishing the State of Michigan as a leader in diversity, equity, and inclusion in the marijuana industry.
For questions or further assistance, the CRA's social equity team may be reached via email at cra-socialequity@michigan.gov
Social Equity Participants - Interested in being found by potential JVPP Partners? Request to participate in the JVPP
If you are an eligible social equity participant and would like to participate in the JVPP please select the following link to submit your information.
Does your business or organization want to partner with Social Equity Participants? Request a list to become a JVPP Partner
If you would like to receive a list of eligible social equity participants that have agreed to participate in the JVPP, please select the following link to request a list.