7 Black entrepreneurs in Michigan cannabis

Good morning! It’s Saturday.

Let’s talk about minority representation in Michigan’s cannabis industry, which remains low.

A recent survey by Michigan’s Cannabis Regulatory Agency found that of the 460 medical marijuana licensees who responded, 15 self-identified as Black or African American, while 19 of the 485 recreational marijuana licensees who responded self-identified as Black or African American.

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On this final weekend of Black History Month, Adrienne Roberts introduces us to 7 Black entrepreneurs in the cannabis business who are paving the way in Michigan.

➡️ In case you missed it: Michigan watchdog pulls cannabis processor’s licenses, saying products contain illicit pot

Introducing our Restaurant of the Year

© Sarahbeth Maney, Detroit Free Press Head chef John Yelinek, 28, of Detroit, prepares items from the constant-changing menu at Ladder 4 Wine Bar in Detroit on Feb. 10, 2023. “The nature of what we do is communal and collaborative,” said Yelinek. “It’s grown really organically and it’s just a good vibe.”

It’s been a busy week in food and dining as we announced the 2023 Detroit Free Press/ Metro Detroit Chevy Dealers Restaurant of the Year yesterday — and it’s not a restaurant.

Ladder 4 is the result of a well-traveled team working to bring Detroit up to speed on dining trends that have been mastered in bigger food cities around the world, like the concept that serious food has a place at a wine bar. It exudes the notion that bars and eateries can strive for the same level of culinary excellence and outstanding hospitality. Read more about it here.

A listing of shows to see in Detroit, and things to do this weekend are all found on our Entertainment page. Do something fun and relaxing this weekend. See you tomorrow.

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This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: 7 Black entrepreneurs in Michigan cannabis