Banking inequity plays a role in the racial disparities found in the cannabis industry. This event is designed to address the systemic inequities in traditional lending and banking services which have resulted in financial stressors in communities of color. This summit seeks to accelerate and prioritize the financial inclusion of BIPOC banks and credit unions as a necessary tool for accomplishing cannabis equity and reversing the harms done by the legacy of the war on drugs and provide critical information to BIPOC bankers interested in serving the growing marijuana industry.

Presented by Herb & Planning Associates in collaboration with Illinois Women in Cannabis and Northstar Minority Cannabis Association

Speakers TBA

8 AM Welcome Remarks

8:10 AM Keynote

8:30 AM – 9:30 AM Creating Comprehensive Cannabis Legislation: The SAFE Banking and MORE Act

8: 30 – 8:55 AM Safe Banking Act Basics for Financial Institutions

This session will provide an overview of the SAFE Banking Act (Secure and Fair Enforcement), proposed legislation regarding the disposition of funds gained through the cannabis industry in the United States.

9 AM – 9:15 AM MORE Act for Financial Institutions

This session will provide context for financial institutions within the cannabis industry concerning historic proposed legislation ending the criminalization of cannabis for adults by removing it from the list of controlled substances, eliminating penalties, and taking several other significant steps towards criminal justice reform, social justice, and economic development.

Followed by Q & A

9:30 – 10:15 AM Meet the Neighbors: Cannabis Banking Protections Within Midwestern States

A diverse panel of regional industry leaders from the following states, Illinois, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, will offer valuable insight through a candid conversation focused on banking protections within the cannabis industry.

Followed by Q & A

10:30 – 11:15 AM Banking Better: BIPOC Financial Institutions

Join us for an informative panel discussion focused on understanding high-level intersecting issues for Multi-State Operators and industry decision-makers.

Followed by Q & A

11:30 – 12 noon. Beyond the Bank: Breakout Networking Session

Join us for a strategic session that seeks to support authentic opportunities for professional growth within the cannabis industry. Please have your intros ready: name, business, role, or specialty, and what opportunities you are seeking within the industry.

This session will include a post-event directory to promote continued connection.

Participants will be randomly placed in break-out sessions.