Supporting Local Small Businesses, Family Farms, & Agriculture
As an agricultural and craft-market state, small businesses and farms should be at the forefront of Vermont’s cannabis economy. Our world-renowned craft beer and cheese industries are a testament to the economic benefit of small, specialized producers. Ensuring these businesses dominate in Vermont’s’ emerging cannabis marketplace and preventing an oligopoly is central to our mission.
Social Equity & Restorative Justice
A fair and equitable adult-use cannabis marketplace cannot exist in Vermont without reconciling prior injustices to those persecuted under cannabis prohibition. Beyond accessibility and eligibility parameters, social and economic equity also includes a framework for clearly defined developmental and financial assistance programs.
Local Ownership & Control
The majority of the cannabis companies permitted to participate in Vermont’s marketplace should be locally-owned. Independent, locally-owned businesses are the foundation for a successful high-quality craft industry. Maintaining local ownership and control is paramount to Vermont’s cottage industries and the local multiplier effect that is the cornerstone of a robust local economy.
Environmentally Sustainable Methodologies
Vermont is known for environmental consciousness and stewardship, and our approach to cannabis should be no different. Consumer safety, social responsibility, and environmental sustainable methodologies are important to implement as the industry is established. Developing a robust regulatory model for environmentally sound practices will help produce a safer and higher quality range of products for Vermont’s’ cannabis marketplace.
Community Outreach & Engagement
We believe everyone should have a role in the development of Vermont’s cannabis marketplace. Serving as an educator when it comes to all cannabis- centric issues, Vermont Growers Association will provide messaging and informative material, while hosting events that engage our communities, leaders, industry stakeholders and consumers alike.
Industry Transparency & Accountability
A successful marketplace runs on trust, and that trust is developed through industry transparency and accountability. An emerging industry demands trust more than an established industry, and cannabis is no different. A framework from the state licensing process to consumer-use must include proper disclosure, in every aspect, building trust within the industry and the general public.
Marketing of Vermont Cannabis Brand
Vermont Growers Association will assist those with limited resources in order to ensure Vermont quality products are marketed beyond local reach through communication and brand building. Not every small business and family farm has the resources for marketing and outreach so we will hold state-wide events that promote Vermont cannabis and its companies.