City to create nonprofit to advance social equity in cannabis industry

The Grand Rapids City Commission recently approved the creation of a nonprofit organization to boost social equity outcomes in communities most historically impacted by over-enforcement of anti-cannabis laws prior to marijuana’s legalization. The independent body — which has not yet been named — would help advance social equity citywide by supporting efforts such as business incubation, entrepreneur training, job and wealth creation strategies, economic incentives, capital, expungement assistance and other efforts designed to increase opportunities for traditionally under-resourced communities. This was an interdepartmental effort that included representatives from the city of Grand Rapids’ Department of Law, Office of Equity and Engagement, Planning Department, and Executive Office.