The goal of ELEVATE Northeast’s Community Outreach program is to promote diversity, inclusiveness, equity, and economic growth in the nascent cannabis industry. All program initiatives and activities have been designed to expand industry access, education, and networking opportunities for underrepresented communities. ELEVATE Northeast aims to empower both industry participation and business ownership of women, minorities, veterans, lgbtqia+, the economically distressed, and communities disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs. As such, ELEVATE Northeast practices a community-centered approach, and also collaborates with and supports the efforts of like-minded organizations delivering direct goods or services to the previously identified empowerment communities.

Our Community Outreach program and related activities are made possible by our business and individual members, event sponsorships, and donations. Learn more about our recent outreach activities below, and become a member or contact us to learn more about how you can support ongoing and new initiatives.

ELEVATE Northeast’s Community Conversation Series is a free public education event series created to educate, empower, and provide professional resources to individuals interested in participating in an emerging industry. The Community Conversation Series also aims to improve industry participation and support by addressing stigma and miseducation. Prior to moving to a virtual platform during the COVID-19 pandemic, live events were hosted in accessible locations in designated empowerment communities, and featured field experts, community leaders, industry professionals, policy experts, scientists, nurses, and doctors. See upcoming events here.

The Community Conversation Series also explores the genesis, nuances, opportunities, and risk associated with cannabis industry participation. See upcoming events here.