A coalition of nearly twenty cannabis industry brands and organizations has launched a scholarship initiative aimed at supporting the next generation of cannabis professionals. The “Higher Potential Scholarship” offers more than $25,000 in opportunities, including educational access, mentorships, industry event passes, and a cash grand prize.

Designed to help aspiring professionals break into the cannabis space, the initiative unites founders, educators, scientists, event producers, and media leaders from across the industry. Together, they are offering over one hundred awards, each tailored to reflect the expertise and influence of its sponsor.

At the center of the program is a $1,420 grand prize sponsored by DaySavers, alongside a scholarship of the recipient’s choice. Other notable contributions include:

  • Ganjier: Three full scholarships to its prestigious Ganjier Product Specialist certification program.
  • SUNY Niagara: Ten scholarships for cannabis horticulture studies and five passes to their cannabis conference.
  • Benzinga: Five tickets to their 2025 and 2026 cannabis industry events (21+).
  • Marijuana Venture: Mentorship opportunities, Interchange event access, and editorial features (21+ for events).
  • NECANN: Event tickets to shows in NJ, NY, Boston, Maryland, and Vermont (21+).
  • Operator Academy: Tuition coverage for 25 students, plus starter toolkits.
  • Custom Cones USA: One-on-one mentorships with founders Harrison Bard or Fredrik Rading for four winners.
  • Network of Applied Pharmacognosy: Four mentorships with cannabis chemists Dr. Miyabe Shields or Dr. Riley Kirk.
  • Veterinary Cannabis Society: Eight seats in its course on cannabis use in animal health.
  • CannaSexual: A one-on-one mentorship with sexuality and cannabis expert Ashley Manta.
  • Camp Laughing Grass: Two behind-the-scenes tourism mentorships with founder Trinity Madison.
  • Smoke Temple is awarding four exclusive passes to MJBizCon 2025 — the premier event for cannabis professionals. (Must be 21+ to enter.)
  • The Mycelia Group, in collaboration with CEO Jessica Ferranti, is offering two select entrepreneurs the chance to launch their projects through a unique business partnership opportunity.
  • Fill-a Blunts is giving away four pairs of tickets to some of the industry’s top events: NECANN New Jersey, CannaCon Minnesota, and CHAMPS in Texas and Florida. (21+ only.)
  • Sage Advice is granting three six-month Pro Memberships — ideal for professionals looking to sharpen their skills and expand their network in the cannabis space. 
  • CannaCon is providing five pairs of tickets to their upcoming Minnesota and Washington events in 2025, as well as future shows in 2026. (Must be 21+ to attend)
  • Cannabis & Tech Today has an exciting announcement on the horizon — stay tuned for updates coming soon.

Breaking Barriers, Building Futures

Organizers say the scholarship is about more than just awards—it’s about investing in people from underrepresented communities and giving them real access to professional networks and industry resources.

“This is about creating a pipeline for diverse talent, elevating those who want to build meaningful careers in cannabis,” said a spokesperson for the coalition. “We’re opening doors that many of us had to break down ourselves.”

Simple Application, Big Potential

To apply, candidates are asked to submit a short personal essay detailing their cannabis journey, goals, and the opportunity they’re most excited about. No résumé or traditional credentials are required, just a strong sense of purpose and a desire to make an impact in the cannabis industry.

Applications are open now at https://daysavers.com/higher-potential-scholarship.