The Connecticut Social Equity Council (the Council) has partnered with Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) to expand workforce development opportunities by providing scholarships for a cannabis industry education program designed to prepare eligible participants for careers in the state’s regulated adult-use cannabis industry.
The program delivers a fully online, 16-week certificate program where participants will gain industry-relevant knowledge and practical skills for careers in compliance, cultivation, medical cannabis, product development and retail operations. Participants will also receive post-completion career center support. The partnership reflects the Council’s continued commitment to expanding economic opportunity through education, workforce development and strategic partnerships that prepare Connecticut residents for careers in emerging industries.
“The regulated cannabis industry represents a chance to create lasting economic mobility for communities that have historically been excluded from its growth,” said Brandon L. McGee, Jr., Chief Executive Officer of the Connecticut Social Equity Council. “Partnerships like this help ensure more Connecticut residents can participate in the industry’s continued growth and share in its long-term economic benefits.”
The scholarship program removes financial barriers to high-quality workforce training while helping participants develop the knowledge and skills needed to compete for careers throughout Connecticut’s regulated cannabis industry.
Southern Connecticut State University is proud to partner with the Council to expand access to quality education and workforce training,” said Amy Feest, SCSU Senior Director, Office of Workforce and Lifelong Learning (OWLL), Southern Connecticut State University. “Our partnership with experts in the field enables us to provide industry-informed curriculum that equips participants with the knowledge, credentials and confidence needed to pursue careers in Connecticut’s regulated cannabis industry. Together, we’re preparing learners for success while helping meet the workforce needs of this growing sector.”
“Strong partnerships between education, government and industry are essential to developing Connecticut’s workforce,” said Chris DiPentima, President and CEO of the Connecticut Business & Industry Association. “As Connecticut’s regulated cannabis industry continues to mature, initiatives like this help build a skilled talent pipeline while expanding access to careers that strengthen our state’s economy.”
Scholarships are available to eligible residents of designated Disproportionately Impacted Area (DIA) towns, as well as eligible Social Equity Entrepreneurs (SEEs) and employees of Equity Joint Venture (EJV) businesses. Through this initiative, the Council is expanding workforce opportunities for individuals from communities disproportionately impacted by past cannabis prohibition by increasing access to industry-recognized education and career pathways. For current eligibility requirements, application information and upcoming scholarship opportunities, visit https://www.southernct.edu/owll/cannabis
About the Connecticut Social Equity Council:
The Social Equity Council was established to ensure that Connecticut’s cannabis industry and economic development efforts provide real access and lasting investment for communities disproportionately harmed by cannabis criminalization. Through strategic funding, partnerships, and accountability, the Council is creating pathways to prosperity for individuals and neighborhoods long excluded from opportunity. For more information, including highlights of the strategic plan, visit: https://portal.ct.gov/socialequitycouncil
About Southern Connecticut State University:
Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) is Connecticut’s first and only Carnegie-classified Research II university, recognized for its high research activity and commitment to innovation. As a leading public research institution, SCSU is dedicated to academic excellence, community engagement, access, and opportunity. Located in New Haven, Connecticut, SCSU has a rich history dating back to 1893 and fosters a supportive learning environment that empowers students to become responsible global citizens.
Our world-class faculty and diverse student body collaborate on research and initiatives that address critical societal issues, driving positive change in our local community and beyond. SCSU has been named a Military Friendly® School for three consecutive years and is recognized as a top-producing Fulbright institution, underscoring its dedication to opening doors and expanding opportunities for students of all backgrounds.
For more information about Southern Connecticut State University, please visit www.southernct.edu.
