This new program will play a pivotal role in putting cannabis-based businesses on a pathway to success,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “I’m proud to say that we’re not only keeping individuals with small amounts of cannabis out of jail and expunging records for cannabis-related convictions, but we’re actively helping the same communities impacted by these policies succeed in the legal cannabis industry.”

The program provides grants to social equity cannabis licensees to offset the costs of starting and operating a business in Illinois. Grant amounts vary by license type:

• Craft Growers: $150,000
• Infusers: $100,000
• Dispensaries: $75,000
• Transporters: $75,000

To qualify, businesses must hold a State of Illinois Adult-Use Cannabis Social Equity license and commit to locating their business in Cook County.

Prioritizing Equity and Inclusion
Given the anticipated demand, grant administrators will prioritize applications based on the following factors:

1. License Age: Older licenses will receive priority.
2. Location in Disproportionately Impacted Areas (DIAs): Businesses located in and committed to operating in DIAs will be prioritized.
3. Ownership in DIAs: Majority ownership residing in DIAs will be given preference.

Commissioner Bill Lowry: A Vision for Equity and Opportunity
“The Cook County Cannabis Development Grant is a vehicle to support social equity applicants, disproportionately impacted communities, and small business creation,” said Commissioner Bill Lowry.

This initiative was inspired by the Cook County Equity Task Force’s 2022 recommendation to establish a grant program for social equity license holders. Funded by the Cook County Equity Fund, the program acknowledges the historical injustices and economic exclusion that communities of color endured during the War on Drugs.

A Community-Focused Model for Success
“There is a saying: Put your money where your mouth is. And that is what the Cook County Cannabis Commission did,” said Willie J.R. Fleming, an independent social-equity cannabis license holder. “I hope this program serves as a model for other county governments locally and nationally.”

The Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) has been contracted to administer the grants, ensuring transparency and accessibility.

Informational Webinars and Resources
The Cook County Bureau of Economic Development will host informational webinars on May 29 and June 7 to guide interested applicants through the application process and address questions.

For more information, visit the Cook County Cannabis Development Grant website.

Cook County remains committed to equity, inclusion, and economic growth, paving the way for a thriving and inclusive cannabis industry.