RAW Seeds Fellowship Boosts Legacy Cannabis Operators With $20K Grants

RAW Rolling Papers and The JUSTÜS Foundation have announced the recipients of the RAW Seeds Fellowship. The grant aims to assist Legacy Operators in the cannabis industry, with each recipient getting substantial funding to support their business growth in the newly legalized market.

Empress Modupe Olufunmi-Jacobs, a cannabis health and wellness advocate from Hawaiʻi, is one of the awardees. Olufunmi-Jacobs, who founded Balm of Gilead Cannabis Health and Wellness Ministry plans to use the grant for startup development and purchasing tools for cannabis formulations. Despite a legal history that dates back to 1987, she is now working towards creating a sustainable business in a changing legislative environment.

Eli Terry, CEO of Glue Lagoons Farm in Jersey City, NJ will use the grant to cover overhead costs and legal fees for a conversion application. A past conviction has hindered the progress of Terry's business. This funding represents a significant opportunity for growth.

Erin “E” Thurmond, based in Brooklyn, New York is another recipient. Thurmond, who has been involved in cannabis distribution across the US, aims to use the grant for legal counsel and application fees for a New York State microbusiness license. His past conviction in 2019 has limited his employment opportunities, making this fellowship crucial for his future endeavors.

The RAW Seeds Fellowship is designed to support those who have been part of the cannabis industry during its prohibition and provide them with a chance to thrive in the now-legal market. This initiative reflects RAW and The JUSTÜS Foundation’s commitment to empowering industry pioneers and correcting past injustices.

In addition to the main recipients, two other awardees, Amanda Knodle and James "Jamie" McRight, will receive smaller grants to expand their businesses. Furthermore, additional funds will be distributed to other entrepreneurs to assist with license application fees.

Josh Kesselman, RAW's founder, expressed pride in supporting these entrepreneurs, acknowledging their role in building the cannabis industry amid legal challenges. The grant, he hopes, will enable them to turn a new leaf and receive the opportunities they deserve.

The recipients are encouraged to contribute back to the community upon achieving success in the legal cannabis industry, maintaining the spirit of giving and support the RAW Seeds Fellowship embodies.