Since the start of the New Jersey Business Action Center‘s no-cost, online training program for entrepreneurs looking to establish themselves in the state’s cannabis industry, more than 1,000 students have registered.

The program launched in October 2024. The Cannabis Training Academy supports those who are interested in understanding the legalized space, joining the cannabis workforce or seeking to apply for a cannabis license in New Jersey.

Announced in 2022, the technical assistance program helps current and aspiring cannabusiness owners as they navigate the process of establishing licensed and regulatory-compliant ventures in New Jersey. Topics covered include the licensing application process, municipal approval, zoning issues, raising capital, post-licensing topics and general operations. Conditional conversion support is also available.

As a learner-led program, students can complete coursework at their own pace. In addition to pre-recorded webinars, participants can register to access live, virtual question and answer sessions with instructors. They will also be able to participate in future in-person workshops.

According to NJBAC, New Jersey residents who are over the age of 21 and interested in cannabis business development can access the first three levels of online instruction. Click here for more information.

To gain access to the rest of the modules and course materials, eligible students must qualify as Impact Zone applicants. To qualify, general students will need to attest they currently live in an Impact Zone, plan to locate their future cannabis business inside of an Impact Zone and/or plan to hire future employees that live in Impact Zones, NJBAC said.

Helping small businesses

Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way, who oversees NJBAC in her capacity as secretary of state, believes CTA offers “invaluable resources” that helps small business owners get through the process of setting up a legalized operation.

“The insights provided will help entrepreneurs avoid common pitfalls and get their business on the right track from the start. With the right knowledge and tools, we are fostering a more inclusive and sustainable cannabis industry in New Jersey,” she said.

Melanie Willoughby, NJBAC executive director, added, “The number of CTA registrations, in just a few short months after launch, underscores the real-world demand for commercial cannabis education, one that is supported by the state’s regulatory arm, the NJ-CRC.”