Cook County CannaBiz Pathways

Service Information
Cook County Cannabiz Pathways logo in blue and green

Cook County, in partnership with the Women's Business Development Center (WBDC), has launched Cook County CannaBiz Pathways, 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 will offer the opportunity to participate in:

  • Cohort-based learning (virtual)
  • Webinars
  • One-on-one business advising

The program is supported by the Cook County Equity Fund, which recognizes the record of incarceration and exclusion communities of color have faced due to the War on Drugs. 

To learn more about Cook County CannaBiz Pathways and register to participate, visit wbdc.org/en/cook-county-cannabiz-pathways/.

Cohort-based learning

Cook County CannaBiz Pathways will offer 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 first cohort will meet weekly from October 7, 2025, to November 18, 2025. 

Registration is open through October 1, 2025, and availability is limited to 25 participants. Apply for first Cook County CannaBiz Pathways Cohort.

The second cohort will begin in late January or early February 2026. 

Webinars

The WBDC will also offer at least one webinar or virtual workshop each month featuring subject matter experts in the cannabis industry. Topics will include banking, human resources, accounting and tax law.

The first webinar will take place on September 25, 2025. Register for webinar.

Learn more about upcoming webinars and virtual workshops.

Business advising

Cook County CannaBiz Pathways offers one-on-one advising to that empowers cannabis-license holders with personalized guidance and strategic planning tailored to their unique goals.

Learn more about one-on-one business advising for cannabis entrepreneurs.

Questions?

For more information Cook County CannaBiz Pathways, email Cook County Bureau of Economic Development public relations specialist Kyle Garmes at kyle.garmes@cookcountyil.gov.

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