The Catalyst curriculum consisted of a series of in-person and virtual learning experiences and mentoring sessions aimed at addressing the unique business challenges and opportunities in the cannabis industry. Participants were paired with Garden Remedies mentors focused on either processing, cultivation or retail. Each was given access to Garden Remedies’ high-tech lab, kitchen, cultivation facility and retail dispensary professionals as learning environments, in a curriculum designed to support the growth of their businesses.
Catalyst Mentoring Program Participants
“My experience working with the Garden Remedies team was transformational and impactful,” says Caroline Pineau, owner and CEO of Haverhill Stem, who plans to operate a locally-owned, female-run cannabis dispensary in downtown Haverhill and help educate adult-use consumers on the benefits of cannabis. “Having such tremendous access to all aspects of Garden Remedies’ operation through personalized one-on-one mentorship sessions has really helped me navigate challenges and elevate my business strategy.”
Gerardo Ramos, owner and operator of cannabis cultivation start-up, Holyoke Green Growers, plans to create a state-of-the-art, organic cannabis cultivation facility in Holyoke to meet the growing demand of manufacturers and retail stores. “My experience in Garden Remedies’ Catalyst Program was Illuminating,” said Ramos. “I learned so much about applying for my license, seeking funding, developing partnerships, real estate deals, the seed to sale program, and compliance. Most importantly, I established lasting relationships with mentors who will always be there if I need them.”
“The Catalyst Mentoring Program met me where I am and propelled me forward in the process of becoming a cannabis entrepreneur,” said Erica Travis, founder and owner of Lily Pad Healing Arts in Shelburne Falls, who is launching a teas, tinctures and salves business using local, sustainable, organically-grown herbs and cannabis with local honey. “I can’t believe how much I learned in such a short period. Learning to build a lab and to make formulations without guidance would have been much more daunting and taken significantly more time.”
Garden Remedies is now accepting applications for its next Catalyst Mentoring Program. To learn more about the program, and how to apply, visit www.gardenremedies.com/catalyst.