Top 3 Leading U.S. Social Equity Brands in Cannabis
Keyword：Social Equity, Cannabis Industry, 40 Tons
Companies addressing injustices from past cannabis laws have two key missions. First, they use their resources to support minority cannabis communities through education, economic aid, and license applications. Second, they align their values with the views of customers, lawmakers, and the public, using their influence to promote activism.
Supporting social justice is not just kind; it’s vital for building a strong and respected business in this competitive industry.
In this blog, we explore the top three Social Equity Brands in the U.S. cannabis market. These companies are not only developing their businesses but also working to make the industry fairer for everyone.
1. 40 Tons
40 Tons is a Los Angeles-based Black, woman-owned brand. They focus on cannabis, clothing, and accessories. The brand is committed to reintegrating individuals into society. They particularly help those affected by the War on Drugs.
It helps rebuild lives and communities of those punished for non-violent cannabis offenses. They go beyond charity to make a real difference.
At MJBizCon 2023, they launched the “Dare To Know” campaign. This innovative effort encouraged people to write letters to those in prison for cannabis-related issues. Their actions demonstrate a commitment to real change, not just words. Supporting these efforts, Artrix has collaborated with them, funding a special 40Tons Edition Drillor product to further promote fairness and positive change in the cannabis industry.
2. The 1937 Group in Illinois
Members of The 1937 Group Team
The 1937 Group, a minority-owned business in the cannabis sector, is rising as a leader in social equity. Based in Illinois, this company has secured a diverse set of licenses, including cultivation, retail, and transportation. The name “The 1937 Group” reflects the Marihuana Act of 1937, which fueled racial discrimination and injustice, driving their commitment to social equity.
The 1937 Group stands out for its support of minority operators in the cannabis industry. Earlier this year, they launched a cannabis incubator program to aid social equity businesses. This program helps these businesses overcome post-licensure challenges, like resource shortages. By sharing their expertise, The 1937 Group enhances diversity and fosters an ecosystem where Black and Brown operators can thrive.
3. Sunset Connect in San Francisco CA
San Francisco’s Sunset Connect makes hand crafted pre-rolls known for the company’s meticulous attention to quality and artisan approach to production. PHOTO SUNSET CONNECT
Sunset Connect, a California-based cannabis brand, is emerging as a standout in the social equity space within the competitive cannabis industry. With its focus on artisan, top-selling pre-rolls, Sunset Connect has made a significant impact in the market, particularly in Northern California, despite its limited availability in just a few stores in the Bay Area. The company’s success in disrupting one of the most popular categories in cannabis is remarkable, especially considering the dominance of corporate cannabis in the market.
The recent partnership between Sunset Connect and HERBL, a leading cannabis supply chain solutions company in the U.S., marks a significant development for both the brand and San Francisco’s Social Equity program. It allows the brand to leverage HERBL’s extensive sales and logistics network to expand its reach, competing with some of the biggest brands in the industry. Notably, Sunset Connect is the first and only 100% Social Equity owned and operated manufacturing facility in San Francisco. His role as the chair of both the SF Cannabis Oversight Committee and the DCC’s Cannabis Advisory Committee highlights his commitment to representing social equity interests and shaping an inclusive future for the cannabis sector.
