Women in Cannabis: Breaking Barriers and Leading the Industry

The cannabis industry has long been seen as a male-dominated field, but that’s changing—fast. Today, more and more women are stepping up, taking leadership roles, and reshaping the industry in ways that promote not only business success but also social equity and innovation. Let’s dive into how women are breaking barriers in cannabis and leading the charge toward a more inclusive future.

The Early Days: Gender Gaps and Challenges

Like many industries, cannabis was initially dominated by men. Women faced the typical barriers—limited access to capital, regulatory red tape, and stereotypes. 

But with the legalisation of cannabis in various regions, there’s been a noticeable shift. 

Women are now carving out space for themselves in ways that weren’t possible before, bringing a fresh perspective and an inclusive approach to the table.

Leading with Purpose

Women in cannabis aren’t just interested in profit margins—they’re tackling the big issues too. Take, for instance, the fight for social equity. 

The war on drugs has disproportionately impacted marginalised communities, and many female leaders in cannabis are using their platform to advocate for justice. 

They’re pushing for policy reforms and creating opportunities for communities most affected by outdated cannabis laws.

Innovating the Market

It’s not just about leadership roles either. Female entrepreneurs are driving product innovation, particularly in health and wellness. 

From CBD-infused skincare to cannabis products aimed at women’s health, female-led companies are changing how we think about cannabis. 

They’re also helping to normalise cannabis use by focusing on its therapeutic benefits and educational outreach. This not only broadens the market but also shifts perceptions of who cannabis is for.

Networking and Mentorship: A Key to Success

Another big factor in the rise of women in cannabis is the sense of community. Organisations like Women Grow have been instrumental in supporting women through networking, mentorship, and business opportunities. 

These groups provide a space for women to share knowledge, collaborate, and navigate the complexities of the industry together.

The Roadblocks

Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. Women in cannabis still face significant challenges, especially when it comes to funding. 

Securing investment can be tougher for female entrepreneurs, and the industry’s regulatory landscape doesn’t make things any easier. However, despite these obstacles, women continue to persevere, proving their resilience time and time again.

Meet the Trailblazers

Here are a few women who are making waves in the cannabis world:

• Mary Jane Rathbun (Brownie Mary): Known for baking cannabis-infused brownies for AIDS patients in the 1980s, Brownie Mary was a pioneer in medical cannabis advocacy. Her work paved the way for modern medical marijuana programs.

• Dr. Sue Sisley: A leading cannabis researcher, Dr. Sisley has been at the forefront of studying cannabis for treating PTSD. Her work has challenged stigmas and provided crucial evidence for the therapeutic potential of cannabis.

• Jazmin Hupp: Co-founder of Women Grow, Jazmin Hupp has been empowering women in the cannabis industry through education and mentorship, helping countless female entrepreneurs succeed in a male-dominated space.

• Wanda James: The first African American woman to own a cannabis dispensary in Colorado, Wanda James is a vocal advocate for social equity in the industry. She’s been a driving force behind policy changes aimed at addressing racial disparities in cannabis.

• Nancy Whiteman: As the CEO of Wana Brands, one of the largest cannabis edibles companies in the U.S., Nancy Whiteman has been a trailblazer in the edibles market, creating high-quality products that have helped normalise cannabis consumption.

Women in Cannabis by the Numbers

The numbers paint an interesting picture. Currently, women hold about 22% of executive positions in the U.S. cannabis industry. While this is lower than the national average for all industries (around 30%), it’s still a promising figure in a rapidly growing sector. 

Approximately 20% of cannabis business owners are women, which is lower compared to other industries, but the trend is on the rise. The main barriers? Access to capital and navigating a still-maturing regulatory environment.