The Washington State Department of Commerce is seeking proposals to create a roster of mentors to aid prospective cannabis business owners.
The agency is also seeking a facilitator to launch the program’s mentorship element.
“The Technical Assistance Mentorship Program will help bolster applicants’ preparations for the Liquor and Cannabis Board’s social equity licensing process and help ensure they are positioned for success,” Washington State Department of Commerce Social Equity Task Force Representative Alison Beason said. “The program will provide applicants with industry-specific business education, direct mentorship, and assistance developing business and finance plans while offering valuable insight and guidance navigating the myriad of complexities in establishing a retail cannabis business.”
Per the state, mentors are slated to initially provide support services to any early-stage entrepreneurs interested in starting cannabis business enterprises, particularly as it relates to those who have been historically impacted by high poverty and cannabis prohibition enforcement.
A virtual pre-proposal meeting for prospective mentor and facilitator applicants to the Social Equity in Cannabis Technical Assistance Mentorship Program is scheduled for Nov. 2, 3022, at 11 a.m., with proposals due to the Washington State Department of Commerce on Nov. 28, 2022.
Mentors may be awarded up to $40,000 depending on their proposed plan and budget, with a six-month contract from January 2023 through June 2023.