NJBAC kicks off cannabis workforce development program

The New Jersey Business Action Center introduced a free, online training program designed to assist diverse entrepreneurs in establishing themselves in the state's cannabis sector.

After its October 16 launch, the Cannabis Training Academy provides technical support, training, and mentorship to applicants for recreational cannabis licenses across social equity, legacy, impact zone, diversely owned, and microbusiness categories.

Initially announced in late 2022, the CTA guides applicants through all necessary steps to complete a cannabis application, offering reliable information from trusted individuals working, teaching, or consulting within New Jersey's cannabis industry.

As a self-paced program, students can complete their coursework at their convenience. Besides pre-recorded webinars, participants can sign up for live, virtual Q&A sessions with instructors and attend future in-person workshops.

Preparing for Triumph

• General students can access the first three levels of online instruction, which cover topics such as:
• Understanding the establishment of a compliant New Jersey business;
• The laws and regulations governing the state's cannabis market; and
• An overview of the cannabis license application portal.

To access the remaining levels and course materials, students must qualify as Impact Zone applicants. To do so, general students must confirm they currently reside in an Impact Zone, plan to establish their cannabis business within an Impact Zone, and/or intend to hire future employees residing in Impact Zones, as per NJBAC guidelines.

Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way, in her role as secretary of state, oversees NJBAC. “Even if someone has prior experience in the cannabis industry, the CTA serves as an invaluable, up-to-date resource that guides them through legal cannabis business management,” Way stated. “The insights offered will help entrepreneurs avoid frequent pitfalls and set their business on the right path from the beginning.”

In a statement, Gov. Phil Murphy praised the initiative. “New Jersey is dedicated to supporting aspiring small business owners in the cannabis industry,” Murphy said.

“The CTA strives to build a well-informed, diverse community of leaders who can seize these new opportunities and contribute to the economic growth and success of their communities and the state as a whole,” the Democratic governor added.