We’re thrilled to announce that Momentum, our business accelerator, is opening applications for Momentum’s 2021 class today. Our search for the next cohort of founders begins now, taking us one step closer every day a more equitable cannabis industry.
We launched Momentum in 2019 as part of our mission to help diversify an industry still feeling the long tail impacts of the War on Drugs. Over the past year, Momentum has worked to cultivate the success of underrepresented cannabis business founders by directly investing in BIPOC, Women, LGBTQ+, and Veterans.
Last year, we found some of the most inspiring stories of resilience, passion, and talent from California. This year, we’re extending Momentum applications nationally.
“Building a cannabis brand is often harder for Black, POC and female founders because they face higher barriers to capital investment,” said Jennifer Lujan, Eaze’s Director of Social Impact, “With support, these entrepreneurs are creating massively popular brands that uplift the industry while giving back to communities hurt by the War on Drugs. They are a great investment by any measure, and that’s why we’re thrilled to launch Momentum nationwide.”
We’re also thrilled to welcome NBA champion, entrepreneur, and nationally-recognized cannabis advocate Matt Barnes as a senior advisor to our board and Momentum, advising the company on cannabis policy, social impact, and industry relations. Barnes’ first project will be to support the national launch of our second Momentum cohort.
“In this election even more voters said Yes to cannabis, but that’s only meaningful if new markets elevate minority-owned businesses,” said Barnes, “I’m here to support real, tangible gains for Black and brown entrepreneurs nationally through Eaze’s groundbreaking equity programs.”
In a recent survey, 100% of Momentum alumni said they’d recommend the program to other entrepreneurs. Read their stories and learned how Momentum has propelled them forward.
Why Momentum
Momentum’s 2021 class will receive $50,000 grants each; participate in a 12-week curriculum led by 70 volunteer experts; and gain access to Eaze’s extensive business development, marketing, and retailer resources. At the program’s conclusion, participants will pitch to leading cannabis investors for the opportunity to raise additional funds. 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 more information on the application process, please visit eaze.com/momentum.
Thank You to Our Awesome Sponsors
The resources Momentum arms entrepreneurs with are possible because of the generosity of our sponsors, Everyday, Cann, Leune, Playboy, Vertosa, and Ritual. Momentum wouldn’t exist without you!
Seth Yakatan
Known for solutions that yield results, Seth Yakatan has completed or advised on acquisitions and corporate finance transactions totaling over $3 billion. He is CEO of Katan Associates International—a financial strategy and merchant banking firm specializing in commercialization and asset monetization—especially those within life-science and e-commerce sectors.