Cook County CannaBiz Pathways
low-level alert: Cook County CannaBiz Pathways has concluded
Cook County CannaBiz Pathways, through a partnership between Cook County and the Women's Business Development Center (WBDC), was a no-cost program designed to equip cannabis entrepreneurs with the tools, guidance and momentum to launch, grow and thrive in this highly regulated industry.
The program offered the opportunity to participate in:
- One-on-one business advising
- Webinars
- Cohort-based learning (virtual)
Cook County CannaBiz Pathways was funded by the Cook County Equity Fund, created to address historic and continued disinvestment in marginalized communities.
To learn more about the program, visit wbdc.org/en/cook-county-cannabiz-pathways/.
What the program offered
Business advising
Cook County CannaBiz Pathways offered one-on-one advising that empowered cannabis-license holders with personalized guidance and strategic planning tailored to their unique goals.
Webinars
Cook County CannaBiz Pathways offered at least one webinar or virtual workshop each month featuring subject matter experts in the cannabis industry. Topics included banking, human resources, accounting and tax law.
Cohort-based learning
Cook County CannaBiz Pathways offered two six-week cohorts--completed virtually--focused on the distinct aspects of the cannabis industry. Cohort participants will learn market research, customer segmentation, sales strategies, marketing strategies, financial acumen, industry regulations and compliance, operations management, and more.
The cohorts met in late 2025 and early 2026.
Questions?
For more information, email cannabis.oed@cookcountyil.gov.
For media inquiries, email:
Maria Phelan, Cook County Bureau of Economic Development deputy director of communications
maria.phelan2@cookcountyil.gov
Kyle Garmes, Cook County Bureau of Economic Development public relations specialist