FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New York, NY — CannaPitch NYC, a premiere platform for cannabis entrepreneurs to showcase their ventures to investors and industry leaders, has officially partnered with EXHALE NYC, a leading community centered event production dedicated to education, empowerment, and equity. Together, they will co-host a dynamic pitch segment designed to elevate New York’s most promising BIPOC and minority-owned cannabis startups.
The partnership builds on the planning efforts of Stacey St. Louis of CannaPitch NYC, who currently produces the high-impact pitch series with strong industry engagement. Drawing on her successful event model, EXHALE NYC and the CannaPitch NYC team are curating an experience that prioritizes minority owned businesses, meaningful audience interaction, and encourages emerging businesses to seek capital to scale and grow.
In preparation for CannaPitch NYC at EXHALE NYC, the organizers will host a Virtual CannaPitch NYC Prep Workshop on Tue May 13, 2025 6:30pm – 7:30pm. The info-session is intended to help business owners who may not be quite ready or who may need guidance on how to prepare and qualify for the pitch session. It was important to the organizers to provide resources for those businesses who are on their journey to compliance and licensure. “This is how we bridge the gap in cannabis equity. No gatekeeping. No preaching to the choir. We educate, collaborate, and share resources.”—Fame Neal, EXHALE NYC Co-Founder comments.
In addition to the recent CannaPitch NYC collaboration, The EXHALE Tour recently partnered with the Minority Cannabis Business Association via EXHALE Social PRO to bring resources and strategic networking opportunities to its partners and exhibitors—all of whom are BIPOC, Latinx, Woman, or LGBTQ owned enterprises. As the tour continues to invest in the local cannabis economy, more strategic partnerships are expected and sought.
The upcoming CannaPitch NYC x EXHALE NYC segment will feature five product-based cannabis businesses, each allotted a 2-3 minute pitch slot designed for direct engagement with investors and potential consumers. The segment will take place during the semi-annual EXHALE NYC day party and wellness event. Participating businesses will get stage time as well as a featured write-up on EXHALE Social PRO–in addition to pitching potential investors.
Business selection is based on several factors which will be reviewed in the upcoming Virtual CannaPitch NYC Prep Workshop on Tuesday, May 13. Businesses are encouraged to complete the Canna Pitch NYC Application prior to the workshop to receive important communications and begin the application process.
Who Should Apply?
CannaPitch NYC invites applications from early-stage cannabis businesses across two categories:
Plant-Touching Businesses (Require NYS OCM License):
These businesses are directly involved with the cannabis plant and must hold or be actively pursuing a license from the NY Office of Cannabis Management.
Examples include:
- Cultivators
- Processors
- Distributors
- Retail dispensaries
- Microbusinesses
Ancillary Businesses (Do not require a license):
Ancillary companies support the cannabis industry without directly handling the plant. These businesses are not required to obtain a license from the OCM but must clearly align with the regulated market.
Examples include:
- Cannabis-focused tech platforms
- Compliance and legal services
- Packaging and design solutions
- Marketing, media, and branding agencies
- Equipment, software, and logistics providers
“By combining our networks and expertise, we’re offering founders a space to be seen, supported, and potentially funded.” said Stacey Stlouis of CannaPitch NYC.
To get involved reached out to CannaPitch NYC. If you would like to apply complete the application on CannaPitch NYC.
“This is how we bridge the gap in cannabis equity. No gatekeeping. No preaching to the choir. We educate, collaborate, and share resources.”
About CannaPitch NYC
CannaPitch NYC is a platform built to empower emerging cannabis businesses by connecting them with investors, mentors, and industry opportunities. Through pitch events and community partnerships, CannaPitch NYC drives innovation and equity in the cannabis sector. Learn more and apply at CannaPitch NYC.
About EXHALE NYC
EXHALE NYC is a culturally rooted cannabis event production and community builder focused on education, wellness, and empowerment. From live events to equity-driven partnerships, EXHALE is committed to elevating the BIPOC, Latinx, and LGBTQ voices and ventures shaping the future of cannabis. Learn more about how to get involved on EXHALESocial.com.
For media inquiries or sponsorship opportunities, please contact:
Fame Neal
Exhale 2025 Tour
EXHALE Social 