The cannabis industry has undergone a dramatic transformation over the years. Women in the cannabis industry have played a pivotal role in shaping its growth and progress. From pioneering advocates who fought for legalization to innovative entrepreneurs launching successful brands, women have left an undeniable mark on the industry. Women face challenges such as gender disparities in leadership and funding. However, female leaders continue to break barriers and redefine the cannabis space.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s the perfect time to highlight the incredible contributions of women in cannabis. Whether they are advocating for policy change, researching cannabis’ medical benefits, or creating high-quality products, these women are making a lasting impact. In this blog, we’ll explore the pioneers, entrepreneurs, and game-changing products that are shaping the future of cannabis. We’ll also showcase some of the best women-led cannabis brands available on 7Engines. Hopefully, you can support their work while enjoying top-tier products.
Women Who Pioneered Cannabis Reform
Mary Jane Rathbun: The Compassionate Cannabis Advocate
One of the most well-known women in the cannabis industry is Mary Jane Rathbun, affectionately known as “Brownie Mary.” In the 1980s, she became famous for baking and distributing cannabis-infused brownies to AIDS patients in San Francisco. Her compassionate activism helped countless individuals find relief from pain and nausea. To make it even more special, it was during a time when medical marijuana was still widely stigmatized.
Mary’s work extended beyond baking; she was arrested multiple times for her efforts, yet she never wavered in her mission. Her relentless activism played a pivotal role in shifting public perception and laid the foundation for medical cannabis legalization. She was instrumental in advocating for Proposition 215, which passed in California in 1996. As a result, California became the first U.S. state to legalize medical marijuana. Mary Jane Rathbun’s legacy continues to inspire cannabis activists and medical marijuana patients alike, proving that grassroots efforts can lead to lasting change.
Shaleen Title: Championing Social Equity in Cannabis
A modern force in cannabis reform, Shaleen Title is a strong advocate for social equity and inclusion in the cannabis industry. As a former commissioner of the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission, she played a crucial role in designing and implementing policies that prioritized minority- and women-owned businesses.
Shaleen has long been a vocal critic of the disparities in cannabis legalization, particularly how communities most impacted by the War on Drugs have been left out of the legal market. Through her policy work, she has helped shape programs that aim to correct these injustices, ensuring that economic opportunities in the cannabis industry are accessible to all.
Beyond her government role, Shaleen continues to drive change through organizations like the Parabola Center, which focuses on advocating for fair and equitable cannabis laws. Her dedication to policy reform and social justice has made her one of the most influential women in the cannabis space, ensuring that legalization benefits not just corporations, but the communities most affected by prohibition.
Female Entrepreneurs Shaping the Industry
The rise of women entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry is a testament to their innovation and business acumen. Despite challenges in securing funding and breaking into a historically male-dominated space, female-led brands are flourishing.
Wanda James: Leading the Way for Minority-Owned Dispensaries
One standout entrepreneur is Wanda James, the first Black woman to own a dispensary in the United States. Through her business, Simply Pure, she has been a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in cannabis entrepreneurship. Wanda’s work extends beyond running a successful business—she is dedicated to addressing the racial disparities in cannabis convictions and ensuring that people of color have access to opportunities in the legal cannabis market.
A former Navy lieutenant and political strategist, Wanda uses her platform to push for social equity programs and cannabis policy reform. Her mission is not only to normalize cannabis but also to create pathways for those disproportionately affected by cannabis prohibition. Simply Pure serves as a model for how businesses can be both profitable and socially responsible.
Miss Grass: Empowering Women Through Cannabis
Founded by leading women in the cannabis industry, Kate Miller and Anna Duckworth, Miss Grass has become a leading brand catering to women who want a mindful cannabis experience. Their product line includes pre-rolls, vapes, and wellness products designed to help women with relaxation, focus, and sleep. Miss Grass also prioritizes education, offering a platform that provides insights into cannabis use, female wellness, and industry news.
Kate and Anna built Miss Grass with the mission of reducing stigma and making cannabis more approachable, particularly for women who may be new to it. Their brand embodies empowerment, encouraging women to take control of their wellness through informed cannabis consumption. The rapid success of Miss Grass highlights the demand for female-focused cannabis products and the importance of representation in the industry.
Daughter of the Land: Sustainable Cannabis Skincare
Daughter of the Land is a unique brand that blends CBD-infused self-care with sustainability. Their organic skincare products, including bath soaks, facial oils, and body balms, are crafted with ethically sourced ingredients. The company was founded on the belief that cannabis can be a powerful natural remedy, and their commitment to sustainability ensures that their products are as eco-friendly as they are effective.
What sets Daughter of the Land apart is its dedication to minimalist, zero-waste packaging, aligning with the growing demand for environmentally conscious beauty products. The brand’s success underscores the potential for women-led businesses to integrate cannabis into mainstream wellness while prioritizing sustainability and ethical sourcing.
These women-led businesses highlight the significant impact female entrepreneurs have in making cannabis more accessible, inclusive, and consumer-friendly. By supporting these brands, consumers not only enjoy high-quality cannabis products but also contribute to a more equitable industry.
Innovative Women-Led Cannabis Products Available on 7Engines
The cannabis industry is thriving with women-led businesses redefining the market through innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity. Supporting women in the cannabis industry also means recognizing their contributions to product innovation and ensuring they receive the recognition they deserve. Several female-led brands available on 7Engines are revolutionizing the industry with unique offerings that cater to diverse consumer needs.
Edibles & Wellness: Functional Cannabis for Everyday Use
Edibles have become one of the most popular ways to consume cannabis, and women-led brands are at the forefront of creating functional and accessible products that cater to different lifestyles. Brands like 1906 and Kiva have developed low-dose, carefully crafted edibles designed to enhance relaxation, focus, and sleep.
- Kiva Confections (co-founded by Kristi Knoblich Palmer) : A pioneer in the cannabis edibles space, Kiva has created a variety of delicious THC-infused chocolates, gummies, and mints. Their balanced dosing and premium ingredients make them a favorite for both beginners and experienced users looking for a reliable edible experience.
- 1906: Known for its range of fast-acting, low-dose edibles, 1906 offers a variety of formulations that target different effects, such as energy, calmness, or arousal. Their precision-dosed chocolates and pills allow users to experience cannabis in a controlled and predictable way. Although not co-founded by a woman, 1906 is known for products that cater to women users.
By choosing these brands, consumers can enjoy high-quality cannabis edibles while supporting women entrepreneurs who are pushing the boundaries of cannabis innovation.
CBD & Self-Care: Cannabis-Infused Wellness Products
- Daughter of the Land: This brand specializes in organic, sustainable CBD skincare products that promote relaxation and skin health. Their offerings include bath soaks, facial oils, and body balms, all formulated with ethically sourced ingredients to nourish the skin naturally.
- Sagely Naturals: Founded by two women passionate about wellness, Sagely Naturals offers CBD-infused pain relief creams, roll-ons, and supplements designed to ease muscle tension and promote overall well-being.
These brands emphasize holistic healing and sustainability, making them ideal choices for those looking to incorporate cannabis into their self-care routine.
Pre-Rolls & Flower: Premium Cannabis Cultivated by Women
Women-led cannabis farms and brands are changing the cultivation game, focusing on high-quality, sustainable growing practices that result in premium flower products. Female cultivators are bringing new strains to the market while prioritizing ethical and organic farming techniques.
- Garden Society: A brand dedicated to producing artisanal pre-rolls and flower, Garden Society focuses on crafting small-batch, sun-grown cannabis with a mission to normalize cannabis use among women.
- LEUNE: This woman-led brand offers high-quality pre-rolls and flower, emphasizing transparency, sustainability, and clean ingredients. LEUNE’s products provide a smooth and enjoyable cannabis experience for both new and seasoned users.
Expanding Opportunities for Women in Cannabis
The cannabis industry has seen remarkable growth, but it still presents challenges for women striving to make their mark. While female entrepreneurs and advocates have made significant strides, there remains a need for greater representation and equity. This section explores how women are expanding their roles in the cannabis sector through leadership, innovation, and advocacy.
Breaking Barriers in Leadership
Despite the growing presence of women in cannabis, executive leadership positions remain largely male-dominated. However, trailblazers like Nancy Whiteman, co-founder of Wana Brands, and Christine De La Rosa, CEO of The People’s Dispensary, are challenging this norm. By creating businesses that emphasize inclusivity and mentorship, these women are paving the way for the next generation of female cannabis leaders.
Organizations such as Women Grow and Supernova Women also provide essential networking and support systems, offering business resources, leadership training, and investment opportunities specifically for women in cannabis. These initiatives help close the gender gap and empower women to take on decision-making roles.
Investment and Funding Challenges
Access to funding remains one of the biggest hurdles for women-led cannabis businesses. Historically, female entrepreneurs receive a fraction of the investment capital that their male counterparts do.
To address this disparity, investment groups like Treehouse Global Ventures focus on funding women-owned cannabis businesses, ensuring they have the resources to thrive.
Crowdfunding and community-supported business models are also emerging as viable alternatives for women entrepreneurs. By leveraging grassroots support, female-led cannabis companies are able to bypass traditional funding obstacles and build successful, sustainable businesses.
Advocacy for Social Equity
Women in cannabis are at the forefront of advocating for social equity policies that address the industry’s historical injustices. Figures like Hope Wiseman, the youngest Black woman to own a dispensary in the U.S., are vocal proponents of equitable licensing and business opportunities for marginalized communities.
Many women-led advocacy groups work to ensure that cannabis legalization includes provisions for communities disproportionately affected by the War on Drugs. Programs designed to provide mentorship, job training, and financial support are helping create a more equitable industry landscape.
The Future of Women in Cannabis
As the industry continues to evolve, the role of women in the cannabis industry will undoubtedly expand. With increasing awareness, support networks, and targeted funding initiatives, female entrepreneurs and leaders have more opportunities than ever to shape the future of cannabis.
By actively supporting women-led businesses and advocacy efforts, consumers can contribute to a more inclusive and diverse cannabis industry. Whether through mentorship, investment, or simply choosing products from female-founded brands, every effort helps pave the way for lasting change.
Support Women in the Cannabis Industry!
Women in the cannabis industry have played an integral role in shaping it, from advocating for legalization to leading innovative businesses. Their contributions have redefined the landscape, making it more inclusive, diverse, and consumer-friendly. Despite challenges in leadership representation and funding, women continue to break barriers and drive meaningful progress.
As the industry evolves, it is crucial to support female entrepreneurs, policymakers, and advocates who are shaping its future. By choosing women-led brands and amplifying their work, we contribute to a more equitable and sustainable cannabis market. The ongoing efforts of these pioneers ensure that cannabis remains a space of innovation, empowerment, and opportunity for all.
The information provided is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice based on your medical condition.
