High Standards: The Top Black-Owned Dispensaries in the U.S
Explore our curated list of top Black-owned dispensaries in the U.S., showcasing excellence and diversity in the cannabis industry.
By Dayana PrevalJune 22 2024, Published 12:00 p.m. ET
Since its legalization in certain states, the cannabis industry has flourished, expanding beyond smoking to include medical use, edibles, daily supplements, and treatments for conditions like depression. Given the historical injustices where many Black individuals faced incarceration for cannabis sales before legalization, it's no wonder they seek a share in this booming industry.
Today, numerous Black-owned companies are thriving in the legal market, and Black celebrities are getting in the industry as well. Let's dive into the top Black-owned dispensaries in the US.
Soulja Exotics
In 2021, Soulja Boy launched his own cannabis line, Soulja Exotics, in partnership with Grizzly Peaks, based in California. He pioneered premium indoor-grown cannabis using coco fiber and because Soulja Boy is known for setting trends, it's no surprise he's the first to do it.
The premium cannabis line debuted in July 2021 and is now available at select stores, including Cookies, Stinky Leaf, Firehouse 365, Harvest, and others.
Pink Mynk
Cam’ron is one of Harlem’s finest, known for his music style and his famous pink mink coat. So, it's fitting that he launched a cannabis line reflecting his personality. The buds feature pink hues, paying tribute to Cam’ron’s career.
The strain was developed in collaboration with GFive Cultivation in 2020, a Black-owned business based in Las Vegas.
The Reserve Medical Cannabis
In 2016, The Game became a part owner of The Reserve in Santa Ana, Calif. His partnership with The Reserve aims to provide legal and secure access to medical cannabis for those in need.
The Game has carved out his niche in the medical cannabis industry and further collaborated with G FarmaBrands as their brand ambassador.
Simply Pure
Simply Pure, located in Denver, is owned by Wanda James and Scott Durrah, making them the first Black veteran license holders in the country. Since its establishment on July 1, 2010, the company has challenged stereotypes associated with cannabis, Black ownership, and more.
Simply Pure is one of the first edible companies focusing on healthy alternatives. Beyond catering to medical and recreational users, the company advocates for social justice. Simply Pure is reshaping the narrative around cannabis, creating a positive experience for everyone involved.
Mary & Main
Mary & Main is located in Capitol Heights, Maryland, within the DMV area. Hope Wiseman entered the medical cannabis industry in 2014, inspired by her personal experience using cannabis to manage anxiety during college.
Upon returning to Maryland, Hope noticed her peers facing legal consequences for using the same remedy that aided her in difficult times. Motivated to make a difference, Hope teamed up with her mother, Dr. Octavia Wiseman, to establish Mary & Main.
BIKO
Timeka Drew's path began with Biko in the early 2000s. While in law school, Timeka faced challenges that led her to withdraw, coupled with a diagnosis of Crohn’s disease. Faced with the possibility of life-altering surgery and the inability to have children due to toxic medications, Timeka turned to cannabis, which played a pivotal role in saving her life.
Drawing from her passion for cannabis, social equity, and advocacy, Timeka has shaped what BIKO represents today in Los Angeles.