Cook County CannaBiz Pathways has concluded
One Program, Multiple Pathways to Grow
CannaBiz Pathways is a comprehensive track that combines:
1:1 Advising – Personalized support for your business model, financials, compliance and growth.
Peer Cohort Learning – A hands-on, interactive experience with entrepreneurs walking the same path. (First cohort begins October 7, 2025.)
Webinars & Workshops – Expert-led sessions on sales, HR, marketing, tax, compliance and more.
Thanks to the Cook County Equity Fund, all services are offered at no cost.
CannaBiz Pathways 1:1 Advising
Don’t navigate the cannabis industry alone.
Work with a WBDC advisor to discuss your business plan, compliance strategy or financial readiness.
CannaBiz Pathways Cohort
Cook County, in partnership with the Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC), invites cannabis business license owners to apply for the Cook County CannaBiz Pathways Cohort, a 6-week virtual training program designed to equip cannabis entrepreneurs with the skills and tools to launch, operate and grow successful businesses in this highly regulated industry.
Cohort Details
Who: Cannabis business license owners (Cook County-based)
Where: Virtual via Zoom (link provided upon acceptance)
When: Every Tuesday, January 27 – March 3, 2026
Time: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM (office hours: 12:00 – 12:30 PM)
This Hands-On Program Provides:
- Expert-led sessions covering compliance, operations, marketing, financial readiness and growth strategies
- Office hours for personalized guidance
- Practical tools and resources to build sustainable and compliant cannabis businesses
Applications close January 22, 2026.
Pathways Webinars & Workshops
CannaBiz Sales Sessions: Intensive Sales Training for Cannabis Business Owners
The “CannaBiz Sales Sessions” is a hands-on, high-impact sales training series designed specifically for cannabis business owners and operators. This intensive virtual program helps participants master the skills needed to increase sales, build stronger client relationships, and navigate the unique compliance-driven sales environment of the cannabis industry.
Each session combines expert-led instruction and interactive scripting workshops where participants refine their own sales scripts and pitches with live feedback. Special guest speakers, including successful dispensary owners, compliance experts, and B2B sales professionals, will share insider strategies for standing out in the Illinois cannabis market.
Expect to be engaged, challenged, and supported as you learn how to confidently close deals while staying compliant with state regulations. Participants will walk away with a personalized sales playbook and a clear action plan for hitting their next revenue milestones.
Session 1: Monday, December 15 | 9:30am – 12:30pm
Session 2: Tuesday, December 16 | 9:30am – 12:30pm