6 Black-Owned Dispensaries Championing Cannabis Social Equity
6 Black-Owned Dispensaries Leading Social Equity in Cannabis The legalization of cannabis in the United States has created new opportunities for Black entrepreneurs to enter an industry where they have historically been underrepresented. These dispen...
Black News 
6 Black-Owned Dispensaries Leading Social Equity in Cannabis
The legalization of cannabis in the United States has created new opportunities for Black entrepreneurs to enter an industry where they have historically been underrepresented.
These dispensaries, led by legacy operators and social equity advocates, are not only building successful businesses but also working to reinvest resources into communities disproportionately impacted by the War on Drugs.
Industry reports and advocacy groups continue to highlight how these founders are bridging the gap between restorative justice and the multibillion-dollar cannabis market.
1. Gorilla Rx Wellness (California)
Founded in 2021 by Kika Keith, Gorilla Rx Wellness is the first Black woman-owned dispensary in South Central Los Angeles.
Keith, a longtime community activist, advocated for fair licensing practices before opening her business.
- Key Focus: Restorative justice and economic opportunity for communities impacted by cannabis criminalization
2. Simply Pure (Colorado)
Simply Pure was founded in 2010 by Wanda James and Scott Durrah, making it one of the first Black- and veteran-owned dispensaries in the country.
James, a former Navy lieutenant, uses her platform to advocate for cannabis policy reform and equity in ownership.
- Key Focus: Ownership equality and premium, clean cannabis products
3. Mary & Main (Maryland)
Located in Prince George’s County, Mary & Main was launched in 2019 by Hope Wiseman, one of the youngest Black female dispensary owners in the United States.
The business operates as both a medical cannabis provider and a community-focused organization.
- Key Focus: Community reinvestment through education and workforce development programs
4. ButACake (New Jersey)
Founded by Matha Figaro, ButACake specializes in cannabis-infused baked goods and operates through dispensary partnerships rather than a standalone storefront.
The brand has become a standout in New Jersey’s cannabis manufacturing space.
- Key Focus: Culturally relevant edibles and expanding opportunities for Black women in cannabis
5. Smacked Village (New York)
Smacked Village was launched in 2023 by Roland Conner, making it one of the first Black-owned social equity dispensaries in New York City.
Conner’s journey—from incarceration due to cannabis-related charges to business ownership—highlights the transformative potential of equity programs.
- Key Focus: Economic empowerment and second-chance entrepreneurship
6. LOWD (Oregon)
LOWD, based in Portland, was founded by Jesce Horton, who also established the Minority Cannabis Business Association.
The brand is known for its premium cultivation practices and advocacy for industry-wide equity.
- Key Focus: Sustainable cultivation and policy reform to diversify the cannabis industry
Redefining Ownership in Cannabis
These Black-owned dispensaries represent more than business success—they are part of a broader movement toward equity, ownership, and community reinvestment.
As the cannabis industry continues to grow, these leaders are helping to reshape its future, ensuring that those most impacted by past policies have a place in building what comes next.
