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Ben of Ben & Jerry’s enters the cannabis business
Ben Cohen, one half of the iconic duo behind Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, has made a surprising foray into the cannabis industry. Known for creating imaginative flavors like Cherry Garcia and Half Baked, Cohen has now set his sights on the world of weed. The move may not come as a shock, considering that recreational marijuana use has been legal in his home state of Vermont since 2018. What sets Cohen’s cannabis venture apart, however, is his commitment to social justice and his desire to make a positive impact on the industry.
Introducing B3: Ben’s Best Blnz
Inspired by his experiences with marijuana and a desire to offer users a less potent option, Cohen developed B3, or Ben’s Best Blnz. Similar to his ice cream creations, B3 features different blends and types of cannabis products. However, instead of satisfying a sweet tooth, these products are designed to give users a high. It’s worth noting that Cohen deliberately formulated B3 to contain less THC, the psychoactive compound responsible for the high. His goal is to create a cannabis experience that is enjoyable and accessible to a broader range of consumers.
A focus on social justice
What sets B3 apart from other cannabis brands is its strong commitment to social initiatives. Cohen has registered B3 as a nonprofit organization in Vermont, and a significant portion of the company’s profits go toward funding various social justice causes. B3 currently supports three initiatives: NuProject, the Last Prisoner Project, and the Vermont Racial Justice Alliance.
NuProject: Empowering Black Entrepreneurs
One of the social initiatives supported by B3 is NuProject, which aims to address the disparities faced by Black entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry. NuProject provides grants and support to help black entrepreneurs establish licensed cannabis businesses. By empowering these individuals, the initiative seeks to create more equitable ownership opportunities and promote diversity within the industry.
The Last Prisoner Project: Advocating for the release of prisoners
The Last Prisoner Project is another important cause to which B3 contributes. This organization is dedicated to fighting for the release of individuals incarcerated on cannabis-related charges. By raising awareness, providing legal assistance, and advocating for policy changes, the Last Prisoner Project aims to correct the injustices caused by outdated drug laws.
Vermont Alliance for Racial Justice: Addressing Systemic Racism
The Vermont Racial Justice Alliance, supported by B3, focuses on illuminating systemic racism and working toward its eradication. The Alliance seeks to reform the criminal justice system and promote racial equality. By supporting this cause, B3 aims to address the disproportionate impact of drug-related arrests and convictions on marginalized communities.
A humble approach
Despite his fame and success with Ben & Jerry’s, Ben Cohen wants to downplay his involvement in the cannabis business. He insists that B3 is not about him, but rather about the cause and the people working to right the wrongs of the war on drugs. Cohen’s humility and dedication to social justice underscore his commitment to making a meaningful impact in the cannabis industry.
The Future of B3
Currently, B3 is focused on developing its medical line of cannabis products. However, once the necessary approvals are obtained, the company plans to expand into the adult recreational market. Through its innovative product offerings and commitment to social justice, B3 aims to carve out a unique place in the rapidly growing cannabis industry.
In conclusion, Ben Cohen’s venture into the cannabis business with B3 is more than just a celebrity endorsement. It is a bold move to challenge the status quo and change the industry for the better. By prioritizing social justice causes and offering a less potent cannabis experience, Cohen and B3 are paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future. As the cannabis market continues to evolve, B3’s commitment to making a positive impact sets it apart as a brand with a purpose.
FAQS
Ben Cohen’s inspiration for entering the cannabis industry stemmed from his experiences with marijuana and a desire to provide users with a less potent option. He wanted to create a cannabis experience that was enjoyable and accessible to a broader range of consumers.
What is B3 or Ben’s Best Blnz?
B3 is a cannabis brand created by Ben Cohen. Similar to Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, B3 features different blends and types of cannabis products. However, instead of satisfying a sweet tooth, these products are designed to give users a high.
How does B3 contribute to social justice issues?
B3 is registered as a nonprofit organization in Vermont, and a significant portion of its profits goes to fund social justice initiatives. B3 currently supports three causes: NuProject, the Last Prisoner Project, and the Vermont Racial Justice Alliance.
What is the focus of NuProject?
NuProject aims to address the disparities faced by Black entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry. It provides grants and support to help Black entrepreneurs establish licensed cannabis businesses, promoting diversity and equal ownership opportunities.
What is the mission of the Last Prisoner Project?
The Last Prisoner Project is dedicated to freeing people imprisoned for cannabis-related crimes. The organization raises awareness, provides legal assistance, and works for policy changes to correct the injustices caused by outdated drug laws.
How is B3 supporting the Vermont Racial Justice Alliance?
B3 contributes to the Vermont Racial Justice Alliance, which focuses on illuminating systemic racism and working toward its eradication. The Alliance seeks to reform the criminal justice system and promote racial equity by addressing the disproportionate impact of drug-related arrests and convictions on marginalized communities.