In February 2021, New Jersey legalized cannabis with a commitment to regulate the industry in a way that protects individuals’ civil rights and promotes equity, particularly addressing the disproportionate arrests Black New Jerseyans faced for marijuana possession compared to their white counterparts. With this goal in mind, how has the legislation supported Black dispensary owners since its passage?

The Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC), established under the act, is responsible for issuing licenses to cannabis businesses in New Jersey. However, the license application process is complex and time-consuming, requiring applicants to complete extensive documentation, have everything notarized, and pay fees.

To promote fairness, the commission has opened applications early for certain groups: individuals with prior marijuana convictions, those living in economically disadvantaged areas, microbusiness owners, as well as women, people of color, and disabled veterans. Other retailers apply later in the process.

Though these measures aim to create a more equitable system, challenges remain.

Joshua Evans, the owner of Camden’s Cuzzie’s dispensary, opened the business with his best friend to honor their late friend, who had a deep love for Camden. Evans shared that securing a license was a difficult and drawn-out process.

“It took a lot of effort, a lot of patience, a lot of paperwork, a lot of city council meetings, and other government bodies involved. So it’s a three-year process,” Evans said.

The barriers to entry are compounded by difficulties in obtaining capital to fund the business. Evans believes this is one of the key reasons there are so few Black-owned dispensaries.

“[A challenge] that we face as a Black-owned dispensary is doubt… It’s hard to gain trust from people closest to you, investors, and other entities in order to make the dream a reality,” Evans explained. “Funding is probably one of the biggest hurdles, especially for minority dispensaries.”

In April 2024, the CRC released a report celebrating its commitment to equity and inclusion. Yet, the numbers tell a different story: Black-owned businesses account for only 10 percent of New Jersey’s businesses, and 18 percent of cannabis licenses. While the CRC viewed this as a success—exceeding the 15 percent benchmark set by the CREAMM Act for social equity applicants and women/disabled veteran license holders—it still highlights the ongoing challenges Black owners face.

These barriers don’t disappear once a dispensary opens. Even after launching their stores, owners often encounter obstacles related to location and community reception.

Evans has found support from many residents.

“The support system has worked to some degree. It really depends on the area… I feel like they love us in Camden. The ones that respect it show grace, show love, and actually come in as customers, showing compassion,” Evans said. “[We’re] just trying to show the brighter side of the community, that we’re here to help. It’s not just about the money; it’s about healing. Camden needs healing.”

Cuzzie’s is one of several Black-owned dispensaries across New Jersey working to shift the narrative around cannabis. Below are seven other Black-owned dispensaries in the state making a lasting impact on their communities.

Here’s a list of Black-owned dispsensaries in New Jersey

1. Holistic Solutions: NJ’s first Black woman-owned cannabis dispensary, Atco, NJ, https://myholisticsolutions.com/ 
2. Bakin’ Bad: Atlantic City’s first 100% Black-, veteran-owned cannabis dispensary, Atlantic City, NJ, https://www.bakinbadac.com/
3. Noiré Dispensary: Black-owned and family-operated cannabis shop, Maplewood, NJ, https://noiredispensary.com/
4. Moja Life: Black-owned and equity-focused dispensary, Trenton, NJ, https://moja-life.com/
5. Chow420 Dispensary: Black-Owned AI automated dispensary startup, Cherry Hill, NJ, https://chow420.com/
6. Simply Pure Trenton: Black-owned, social equity-focused dispensary, Ewing, NJ, https://simplypuretrenton.com/ 
7. Voltaire Dispensary: Black-owned dispensary, Mount Holly, NJ, https://www.shopvoltaire.com/