San José's Cannabis Equity Business Academy for potential cannabis equity business owners was completed in the Spring of 2024.

What is the Cannabis Equity Program?

The Cannabis Equity Program offers an opportunity to residents who may have been harmed by years of cannabis prohibition and the “War on Drugs”. The program is aimed at helping qualified applicants to become business owners or start careers in the cannabis industry.

The City of San José allows up to 10 registrations for retail cannabis businesses to qualified cannabis equity owners. The City also provides workforce development programs for potential cannabis equity employees.

Cannabis Equity Business Owner Qualifications

1. Meet the Eligibility Criteria, AND
2. Must have attended and successfully completed the Cannabis Equity Academy.

For more details regarding program eligibility, please refer to the San José Municipal Code Chapter 6.88, Part 3.5.

If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Economic Development and Cultural Affairs at 408-794-1151.