As the legalization of cannabis has reached a turning point, it's a good time to think about a career in the sector. Here in Canada we were suffering the consequences of a completely failed drug policy but soon it is going to change. The size of the market and the opportunities are far from what is happening in Colorado or Washington State. Most other products and services related to cannabis still remain illegal in Canada.
Working with the plant in one way or another is the dream of many cannabis supporters. The first choice that comes to mind is of course culture or sales, but hundreds of new opportunities are emerging in the cannabis economy.
Political activism
This may not be the job of your dreams, but it can be a good opportunity to get to know the field and meet people. Especially in countries where cannabis is still illegal, this remains one of the few legal opportunities to seize. Working for non-profit organizations, non-governmental organizations and charities can be a good way to get wet.
In most of these organizations, work takes the form of volunteering, and can continue in this state for many years. Being present in cannabis-related organizations can open doors, help you make contacts, and you can decide where you want to go in the cannabis sector.
For anyone who is serious about cannabis, and who wants to see the plant legalized, this can be a very interesting path. Although not working in direct contact with the plant itself, you are still in touch with the subject.
These are the Sectors to consider:
-Journalism
-Research
-Public utility work (from activism to education)
-Election Candidature
-Laboratory work
Of course, full-time volunteering is not a practical option for anyone to earn a living. Although some trades in this sector can be paid for, volunteering can bring other opportunities.
Anyone who has worked with cannabis knows how much happiness the plant can bring. Unfortunately, unless you are willing to break the law, you must live in a country where medical or recreational cannabis has been legalized.
Trades in this sector of the cannabis industry include the entire process of cannabis production, from laboratory work to retail sales, to growing rooms. Once legalized, cannabis becomes an industry like any other. Companies in the sector also need graphic designers, public relations, accountants, etc. But there are several general areas:
Culture :
-Cultivators
-healers
-harvesters
-tailors
Treatment :
-packers
-carriers
-Inventory management
-Quality Control (More lab work than tests done by yourself, unfortunately)
-Variety specialists
Sale:
Store managers
-Marketing and Advertising
-jurists
-Public relations
-accountants
-Additional treatment:
-Pastry cooks and cooks
-Experts in concentrates
-Medical Consultants
Cannabis Foods
Do not underestimate the popularity of cannabis foods. In Colorado, chewing gum with gelatin cubs, everything exists with cannabis. Similarly, concentrates are a separate sub-market. Think hash,oils, etc.
Tourism related to cannabis
In most cannabis-related places, the increase in cannabis-related tourism is an interesting development. It happened in the Netherlands, and it's happening in Colorado. As public smoking is not legal in Colorado, a local company now offers cannabis bus tours. Why not ? Their business seems to work very well.
One thing is certain, in places where recreational cannabis use is tolerated and decriminalized, there will always be a market for tourists, and in places where recreational use is completely legalized, cannabis-related tourism will increase.
Secondary opportunities
The secondary cannabis industry includes organizations and companies that are not really directly in contact with the plant itself, but that offer services and / or products that are used for growing cannabis. For example, accessories companies, cannabis magazines and fairs, cannabis mobile apps, festivals, etc.
As the cannabis industry grows, so do the related services. These services have recently come in the form of social media websites designed specifically for cannabis consumers and home growers, as well as other websites and forums offering useful tools.
The weedmaps site is a good example of this phenomenon. It was created by a clever entrepreneur who spotted a niche market and seized the opportunity. This service is essentially google maps, a cannabis directory and a review site, all in one service. This allows users to enter their zip code and find out where the clinics, coffeeshops and doctors are around them, while offering user reviews for each. It is an extremely useful tool, especially in the United States, where it is mainly used by medical cannabis users.
Of course, there are many other good examples and ways to offer a service or product, such as vaporizers. People are turning away from smoke and going to consumables and sprays. Technology companies are working hard to bring the vaporizers to maturity, it's a huge opportunity.
There are also more direct services, for example, cannabis social clubs. They are increasing, and although not-for-profit, they operate relying on a full-time team.
A cannabis social club is in essence a group of people with common interests who come together to grow and produce grass privately among themselves, often for medical reasons. They are legal in only a few places, but they are beginning to emerge in many places, taking an active part in drug policy reform. Learn how to create one yourself here.
As you can see, there are many, vast and varied opportunities to seize in the continuously growing cannabis market. The cannabis economy is already a reality in many places, and many others will see it soon. It's a good time to reflect on the opportunities that will open up in the coming years, and the best way to position yourself.
So, what would be your ideal job in relation to cannabis? Do you already have experience with this sector? You have trouble knowing where to look? I would love to work in this industry !!!!!
Thanks for reading !
