Curio Wellness Launches $30M Fund to Boost Diversity in Cannabis Dispensary Ownership
Addressing Systemic Barriers in the Cannabis Industry
Maryland-based medical ******** leader Curio Wellness has launched a groundbreaking $30 million investment fund aimed at empowering women, minorities, and disabled veterans to own and operate ******** dispensaries. The Curio WMBE Fund represents a bold step toward addressing systemic inequalities in an industry where diverse ownership remains disproportionately low.
“Diversity is a keystone issue for the ******** industry,” emphasized Jerel Registre, Managing Director of the Curio WMBE Fund, in an exclusive interview. “We’re creating solutions for the massive economic disparities that prevent underrepresented groups from accessing capital and opportunities.”
How the Fund Works: A Path to Full Ownership
The innovative program offers:
- Capital investment for up to 50 qualifying entrepreneurs
- Operational support including licensing, location selection, and staff training
- A clear three-year path to 100% ownership—a unique feature in ******** franchising
- Ongoing business support covering management, marketing, and product education
“Our model flips the traditional approach by truly empowering diverse entrepreneurs rather than using them as license vehicles,” Registre explained. The fund includes safeguards to ensure its diversity mission endures—if a franchisee defaults, they must be replaced by another qualified minority, woman, or disabled veteran owner.
Why This Matters Now
Michael Bronfein, CEO of Curio Wellness, stated: “After examining the systemic barriers facing these groups, we developed a solution that provides both capital and the operational expertise needed for long-term success.”
The timing is strategic. As ******** legalization expands nationwide, the fund helps ensure diverse communities can participate meaningfully in this booming market. Curio brings proven expertise to the table—as Maryland’s largest ******** cultivator, the company has built a successful patient-centric model since its 2014 founding.
Beyond Dispensaries: Creating Wellness Destinations
Curio redefines the ******** retail experience through its Wellness Center model:
- Led by licensed pharmacists
- Offers holistic health products and services
- Provides community education programs
- Welcomes all community members, not just medical ******** patients
“Our pharmacist-led, patient-first approach makes us true wellness destinations,” Registre noted. This inclusive model broadens business potential while serving community health needs.
Commitment to Diversity at All Levels
Curio practices what it preaches:
- 40% female workforce (200+ employees)
- Over 50% minority representation
- 38% female leadership
- 44% minority management
“Diversity isn’t just our mission—it’s a core asset driving our success,” Registre affirmed.
Current Status and Next Steps
The fund has already secured $15 million toward its $30 million goal, with investments intentionally sourced from women and minority backers. Applications are expected to open in early 2021, with the fund projected to close by year-end 2020.
This initiative arrives as the ******** industry experiences unprecedented growth following recent legalization measures and shifting public attitudes. By addressing financial and systemic barriers head-on, the Curio WMBE Fund could reshape industry ownership demographics for years to come.
