The NJ Business Action Center (NJBAC), which operates within the New Jersey Department of State, has selected its first group of Cannabis Training Academy (CTA) instructors to assist in building out the State’s cannabis technical assistance program.

Set to launch this year, the CTA will provide individuals, particularly those from underserved communities disproportionately impacted by cannabis prohibition and those who reside in designated Impact Zones, with the proper information and education to pursue an adult-use cannabis operator’s license. Enrolled students will have access to reliable information from trusted instructors who either work, teach in, or consult with the New Jersey cannabis industry.

“We look forward to launching the Cannabis Training Academy in 2024,” said Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way, who leads the New Jersey Department of State in her capacity as Secretary of State. “This program will build upon the work happening throughout state government to create a more equitable, inclusive, and diverse cannabis industry.”

Announced in late 2022, the no-cost CTA will provide online courses to New Jersey residents, ages 21 and above, interested in obtaining an adult-use cannabis license. General students will have access to the first three levels of online instruction, which will provide instruction on establishing a compliant New Jersey business, the laws and regulations that shape New Jersey’s cannabis market, and an overview of the cannabis license application portal. For all levels and course materials, eligible students must qualify as Impact Zone applicants.

“Our goal is to provide key support to Jersey-owned, local entrepreneurs who are interested in pursuing a recreational cannabis license through this virtual technical assistance program,” said NJBAC Executive Director, Melanie Willoughby. “We are proud to provide resources and support to budding cannabis entrepreneurs and current local operators who are striving to make a positive impact in their communities.”

From June to November 2023 the Cannabis Training Academy team conducted their CTA Instructor hiring journey. More than 150 people’s applications were deemed fully complete to move into interview consideration, and of those 150 people, 64 people were selected for final interviews. From those interviews, 25 people were selected as final instructors.

“Each of our selected instructors brings years of experience, success, some painful lessons learned, and deep insight to budding entrepreneurs who are interested in stepping into the Garden State’s cannabis industry,” said CTA Executive Director Tauhid Chappell. “Many have personally written and submitted applications for, and have succeeded in winning, cannabis licenses in New Jersey and/or other states too. This wealth of knowledge gives us confidence that prospective CTA students will be getting the most relevant, on-the-ground, guidance and wisdom from those who’ve been through the exact process and know what it takes to enter and thrive in this industry.”

The New Jersey Business Action Center serves as the State’s liaison to the business community, offering free information, services, and resources across various areas such as business registration, financial programs, regulatory compliance, property selection, workforce training, and more. NJBAC, a division of the Department of State, comprises multiple offices, including Business Advocacy, Export Promotion, Small Business Advocacy, State Planning, and the Cannabis Training Academy.  Access to NJBAC services is available through NJ DOS – NJ Business Action Center or Business.NJ.gov: Your first stop for doing business in NJ or by calling 1-800-JERSEY-7.