Cannabis Trademarks 101
By Jeffrey Welsh
Nov 19, 2024
In an industry that runs on innovation and differentiation, a cannabis brand’s identity is among its most valuable—and most prone to copying—assets.
Archive
NYC Cannabis Loan Fund is Now Accepting Applications from New York Cannabis Entrepreneurs
By Brandon Kurtzman, Bridgette Nikisher
Oct 31, 2024
The Cannabis NYC Loan Fund is offering loans of up to $100,000 for cannabis entrepreneurs. Applications for the first phase, which is available to Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary licensees, will be accepted through November 4. Learn more about this program!
How to Choose a Trademark for Your Cannabis Brand
By Chelsie Spencer
Sep 3, 2024
A strong trademark is crucial for cannabis businesses to stand out and thrive. This Insights post explores the importance of trademark protection and breaks down the different categories of trademark distinctiveness, from generic to fanciful. By understanding these categories, entrepreneurs can make informed decisions to safeguard and protect their brand identity.
[Webinar] Cannabis Rescheduling: Implications and Next Steps
May 3, 2024
Watch this special briefing featuring Vicente LLP leaders who have been deeply immersed in the federal scheduling issue, along with Mitzi Keating, a CPA and partner at Citrin Cooperman.
[Webinar] Cannabis IP Strategies: A Forward-Looking Discussion with Patent & Trademark Specialists
Mar 28, 2024
Watch this pre-recorded session to learn about the future of intellectual property for cannabis and hemp products with rescheduling on the horizon. This webinar will feature a discussion with VLLP IP specialists regarding patent, IP and trademark protection, cannabis research, and what may change with potential federal marijuana rescheduling.
The Massachusetts Cannabis Social Equity Trust Fund: What You Need to Know
By David M. Ullian
Feb 13, 2024
Massachusetts launched the Cannabis Social Equity Trust Fund to aid qualified cannabis businesses disproportionately impacted by marijuana prohibition. Licensed businesses or applicants meeting specific criteria, like Social Equity Program participants, can access grants or loans (up to $50,000 now!). Apply online and learn more about future programs before the February 15th deadline.
New Funding Opportunity for Maryland’s Social Equity Cannabis Business Applicants
By Meg Nash, Bridgette Nikisher
Feb 7, 2024
Maryland's Cannabis Business Assistance Loan/Grant Fund is offering grants to help social equity applicants cover costs associated with obtaining a cannabis business license. The program reimburses up to 50% of eligible expenses, with a maximum of $5,000. Applications open February 19th and close March 20th. Read this Insights post to learn more about eligibility, qualifying expenses, and how to apply.
New Cannabis Regulations in Massachusetts Are Now in Effect: What You Need to Know
By David Ullian
Oct 31, 2023
The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission’s amended regulations make substantial changes to the current regulatory framework related to HCAs, Social Equity businesses, municipal equity, and agent suitability. These changes reveal a clear intent to make real progress towards achieving the goals of creating new opportunities and a level playing field for Social Equity businesses, and continuing to build a successful, equitable cannabis industry in Massachusetts. Read this article for an overview of the key provisions in the amended regulations.
Minnesota Cannabis Grant Programs Aim to Help Entrepreneurs Succeed and Promote Social Equity
By Jason Tarasek
Oct 23, 2023
The Minnesota legislature has established three grant programs designed to help entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses and to create a more equitable cannabis industry. Read more about them in this Insights article.
How to Navigate New Mexico’s Local Cannabis Zoning Laws
By James Nechleba
Sep 20, 2022
Hunting for an optimal cannabis business location in New Mexico demands a thorough investigation and understanding of state and local laws, but one should pay the closest attention to local rules.
[Webinar] Massachusetts Cannabis Regulatory Update
Aug 19, 2022
Massachusetts Legislature recently voted to pass marijuana reform legislation that will impact the cannabis industry in significant ways, particularly with respect to social equity. Watch this for an overview of the new law and insights into how it might impact your business.
How to Qualify as Justice-Involved for a New York Cannabis Business CAURD License
By Kim Napoli, Bridgette Nikisher
Aug 2, 2022
New York's Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary (CAURD) Licenses are reserved for "Justice-Involved" individuals disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs. What does "Justice-Involved" mean, and how does one take advantage of the benefits associated with that classification?
Trademarking Your New York Cannabis Industry Business and Brand
By Erik Pelton
Jul 27, 2022
Looking to start a cannabis business in New York? When creating your business brand name and logo, don't forget to protect it with a trademark.
Recap: Cannabis Regulators Association External Stakeholders Meeting
By Jen Flanagan
Jun 16, 2022
CANNRA recently convened the first-ever External Stakeholders Meeting in Seattle, Washington. VS's Jen Flanagan recalls her experience at the event in this blog post.
VS is Headed to Las Vegas for the Biggest Cannabis Event of the Year — MJBizCon!
Oct 5, 2021
We look forward to seeing our colleagues, clients, and friends at MJBizCon in Las Vegas, October 19-22!
Michelle Bodian Featured in INCBA CLE: Hemp 301
Aug 20, 2021
VS attorney Michelle Bodian discusses the hemp industry's environmental challenges and opportunities in this on-demand CLE from the INCBA
Coronavirus Federal Stimulus Bills: Updated Overview and FAQ for Cannabis, Hemp and Ancillary Businesses
Mar 29, 2021
An updated overview and FAQ of the federal stimulus bills for coronavirus, with specific guidance for marijuana, hemp and ancillary businesses.
When Do You Need Cannabis Regulatory Counsel? A Guide for Corporate Counsel
By Charles Alovisetti, Sally Kent Peebles
Jan 15, 2021
As more law firms are fielding client questions about cannabis industry transactions, it can be challenging for corporate counsel to identify when they need cannabis regulatory counsel.
The Cannabis Business: Understanding Law, Finance, and Governance in America's Newest Industry
By Vicente Sederberg LLP
Dec 18, 2020
Vicente Sederberg attorneys wrote the book on cannabis law — and now you can own it! This comprehensive primer on all things cannabis law is a must-have for anyone seeking to understand the major practical legal issues facing the marijuana and hemp industries.
Vicente Sederberg LLP Hemp Update: November 2020
Nov 25, 2020
Update on hemp legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy hemp news and events.
Vicente Sederberg LLP Hemp Update: October 2020
Oct 22, 2020
Update on hemp legislation, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy hemp news and events.
Coronavirus Federal Stimulus Bills: Overview and FAQ for Cannabis, Hemp and Ancillary Businesses
Oct 21, 2020
An overview and FAQ of the federal stimulus bills for coronavirus, with specific guidance for marijuana, hemp and ancillary businesses.
Protect Your Brand! Cannabis Trademark Strategies and Benefits
Sep 23, 2020
Watch this virtual discussion on cannabis trademarks and intellectual property with Sahar Ayinehsazian, Erik Pelton and Jeffrey Welsh.
Vicente Sederberg LLP Hemp Update: August 2020
Aug 24, 2020
Update on hemp legislation, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy hemp news and events.
[Webinar] Hemportunities: State and Federal Funding Opportunities for Hemp Businesses
Aug 5, 2020
Learn about grant and loan opportunities for hemp farmers and hemp-related businesses in this session with VS's Michelle Bodian and Eric Steenstra of Vote Hemp.
Vicente Sederberg LLP Hemp Update: July 2020
Jul 13, 2020
Update on hemp legislation, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy hemp news and events.
Preparing for the Rising Demand for Due Diligence in Cannabis Transactions
By Charles Alovisetti, Elliot Choi, Sahar Ayinehsazian, Corey Cox
May 5, 2020
The continuing growth of the cannabis and hemp industries has given rise to the need for specifically tailored due diligence.
Shawn Hauser and Dwight Clark Featured in Texas NORML 420 Stream-A-Thon
Apr 20, 2020
Shawn Hauser and Dwight Clark talked about SBA loans for cannabis businesses and political advocacy during Texas NORML's 420 Stream-A-Thon.
Trademark Protection for Cannabis, Hemp and CBD Brands
Dec 11, 2019
What brand protection options are available for businesses in the cannabis, hemp, CBD or related industries? Watch this presentation to better understand the tactics your business can implement to increase protection for brand names, logos, and slogans.