The LCB has partnered with the Washington State Department of Commerce and MakeGreenGo!, an organization that provides business development services for cannabis social equity applicants. MakeGreenGo has assisted in implementing social equity in cannabis programs across multiple states and jurisdictions in collaboration with government agencies. Keep an eye on this page for further educational opportunities such as webinars, live events and videos specific to the LCB application process.
Technical Assistance Program
In collaboration with MakeGreenGo!, social equity applicants can sign up for free to participate in their educational program video modules. These self-paced, pre-recorded modules provide an introduction to business concepts such as financing, marketing, taxes and business planning. All module presenters and hosts are experts in the industry and offer examples specific to cannabis business owners. Each module has downloadable content for applicants to reference and use in working to develop their business plans.
The LCB and MakeGreenGo! updated these courses in Jan. 2023 to include six new videos with detailed information specific to the Washington State Social Equity Program. Anyone interested in applying for a social equity in cannabis license can provide their name and email address to sign up for a free account and access the content.
Sign up and view the educational content here.
Watch a Webinar Replay
In Jan. 2023, the LCB and MakeGreenGo! hosted webinars for potential social equity applicants to attend, learn more about the program and application process and ask questions of the LCB Licensing team. If you missed the live webinars but are still interested in applying, you can view a replay of the webinar by registering and watching the session here.
Frequently asked questions from the webinars have been added to our FAQ page. If you have further questions, you can submit your own and an LCB representative will reach out to follow up.
Mentorship Program
The Department of Commerce is developing a roster mentors and facilitators to support social equity licensees. Mentors will initially provide support services to any early-stage entrepreneurs interested in starting cannabis business enterprises, particularly those who have been historically impacted by high poverty and enforcement of cannabis prohibitions. Later, assistance will target specialized guidance and support to those seeking Social Equity licenses, providing tools and expertise where necessary. Proposals were due to the Department of Commerce by Nov. 28, 2022. View the press release here.