SAN FRANCISCO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Eaze, the nation’s largest cannabis delivery marketplace, today opened applications for its award-winning Momentum business accelerator to cultivate underrepresented cannabis businesses nationally. BIPOC, women, LGBTQ+ and military veteran founders across the country can apply now to this award-winning program.
Now in its third year, Momentum’s national focus reflects Eaze’s multi-state expansion into Michigan and recent acquisition of Colorado and Florida retail leader Green Dragon.
Eaze launched Momentum in 2019 to support its mission to deliver good with the goods and help communities hurt by the War on Drugs. Momentum has since welcomed Black, POC, veteran, and female founders from California, Michigan, New York and New Jersey. In 2021, Momentum was recognized as a finalist in Fast Company’s World-Changing Ideas, and has received awards from WeedWeek and LA Weekly for its positive impact on social equity.
“As Eaze’s footprint continues to grow beyond California, we’re focused on helping even more women and founders of color break into the cannabis industry,” said Jennifer Lujan, Eaze’s Director of Social Impact. “Getting a foot in the door is often harder for these founders, so we encourage applicants across the country to apply now.”
Each member of Momentum’s 2022 class will receive a $50,000 grant; participate in a 12-week curriculum led by 70 volunteer experts; and gain access to Eaze’s extensive business development, marketing, and retailer resources. Eaze takes no equity in participants’ businesses, distinguishing itself from many other accelerators and programs available to underrepresented entrepreneurs. At Momentum’s conclusion, participants will pitch to industry-defining cannabis investors for the opportunity to raise additional funds.
“Through grants, mentorship, education, and more, Momentum represents an ecosystem of passionate entrepreneurs, advisors, and industry professionals working together to build an inclusive industry!” said Austin Stevenson, Vertosa’s chief innovation officer and member of Momentum’s advisory board.
Momentum exists because of support from cannabis brands Everyday, Cloud, Vertosa, CANN, Leune, and Country Cannabis and generous media partnerships with Becker Boards, Brooklyn Outdoor, Bulletin Displays, Cannabis Now, and CannaVu (Trion IO).
Momentum Fast Facts:
- 100%: Percent of alumni who report their businesses grew as a result of Momentum.
- 100%: Percent of alumni who report they would recommend Momentum to other entrepreneurs.
- $1 million: Equity-free grants provided by Eaze to Momentum participants to-date.
- 1,200: Hours that Eaze employees have volunteered to the program.
- 85: Industry leaders who’ve served as mentors to Momentum participants.
Eaze’s social impact work also includes its Social Equity Menu; partnership with Code for America to clear 250,000 low-level criminal offenses; permanent 25% discount for U.S. veterans; support for the Homegrown Detroit fund; and partnerships with Success Centers SF and the San Francisco AIDS project.
Businesses that are operating and looking to grow are encouraged to apply to Momentum. If you are a cannabis business, you must be licensed by all required jurisdictions. For other requirements and to apply today, please visit eaze.com/momentum.
About Eaze
Eaze delivers good with the goods. As California’s largest legal cannabis marketplace, we bring enjoyment and convenience to our customers, break down barriers to access, and cultivate community in everything we do. With over seven million cannabis deliveries to date, we are committed to creating a more diverse and sustainable industry through our Momentum business accelerator and Social Equity Partners Program. www.eaze.com.