The Washington State Social Equity in Cannabis Project is a statewide initiative led by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) to promote equitable access and participation in the state’s cannabis industry. This program was established to address the disproportionate impacts of cannabis criminalization on communities of color and those historically underrepresented in the legal cannabis market.
Through this program, the LCB provides eligible individuals with an opportunity to apply for and obtain cannabis retail licenses under a new framework designed to prioritize equity, transparency, and accessibility. Registrants must meet specific social equity criteria, including demonstrating personal or familial experience with cannabis-related arrests, residence in disproportionately impacted areas, and income-based eligibility.
The project also supports Title Certificate Holders—individuals who previously received conditional licensure—by offering relocation opportunities or the chance to apply for an additional license under social equity provisions.
Alta Point Consulting, in partnership with Reviewr, is working closely with LCB to ensure the digital registration platform is intuitive, ADA-compliant, and capable of supporting all registrant types through a streamlined and equitable process.