The Canadian cannabis industry has seen a significant increase in the number of women participating in various aspects of the industry, including entrepreneurship, executive leadership, and scientific research. Women are making significant contributions to the growth and development of the industry, and their impact is becoming increasingly recognized. In the executive leadership sector, women are taking on high-level positions, such as CEO, COO, and CFO, in both established companies and start-ups.
These women bring a wealth of experience and expertise from other industries, and are helping to shape the future of the Canadian cannabis industry. Additionally, many women entrepreneurs are starting their own cannabis-related businesses, including cultivation and retail operations, product development, and consulting services. Women are also playing a crucial role in the scientific research of cannabis and its various applications.
They are contributing to the development of new and innovative products, such as strains with specific medicinal benefits, and they are conducting research on the effects of cannabis use on various health conditions. With their expertise and passion for the industry, women are helping to push the boundaries of what is possible in the Canadian cannabis industry. Below are a just a few woman whom are succeeding in the industry:
Mika Unterman
The promotion of sustainability in the cannabis industry is an important trend, and many companies are taking steps to minimize their environmental impact and prioritize social responsibility. This can include implementing sustainable growing practices, reducing waste and emissions, and sourcing materials from ethical suppliers. In an industry that is still in its early stages of development, there is a growing recognition of the need to prioritize sustainability and social responsibility.
This not only benefits the environment and communities, but it can also help companies establish a strong reputation and build customer loyalty. Companies that are seen as leaders in sustainability and social responsibility are likely to be well positioned for success in the future of the Canadian cannabis industry.
Mika Unterman is the founder and president of Apical Ethical Cannabis Collective, which facilitates teh adoption of Shared Value Creation, and management of alternative forms of capital to drive Cannabis to be more inclusive, sustainable, and socially responsible. Unterman provides cannabis companies with access to resources and support that makes environmentally and socially responsible information and choices more accessible.
She has over four years of diverse product management experience, and has worked on 20 products from inception to launch. In October 2022, Apical partnered with Ontario company Friendlier to build more sustainable cannabis packaging. Friendlier, which provides reusable takeout containers, worked with Apical to launch the pilot project in Ontario, and three cannabis producers have participated thus far.
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Amy Weinstein
The cannabis industry in Canada has experienced rapid growth and evolution since its legalization in 2018, with many entrepreneurs and established companies entering the market to offer various products and services. Boutique sales agencies, like ‘Other People’s Pot’ co-founded by Amy Weinstein, play an important role in connecting cultivators and product manufacturers with retailers and distributors.
By acting as intermediaries, these sales agencies can help to streamline the distribution process and bring new products to market more efficiently. The success of a boutique sales agency in the Canadian cannabis industry depends on several factors, including the quality of their products and services, their ability to build strong relationships with clients, and their understanding of market trends and consumer demand. Additionally, having a solid understanding of the regulations and compliance requirements of the industry can also be crucial for success in this field.
Ahead of co-founding ‘Other People’s Pot,’ Weinstein worked in communications and marketing roles with companies such as 3Lead and 48North. Other People’s Pot describes themselves as “champion of good pot and kind people,” and the company is made up of cannabis lovers and industry veterans, like Amy, who put incredible cannabis products into the hands of other people. They help bring the best products to the forefront of the industry so that consumers can enjoy the highest quality products.

Angelina Blessed
The industry has seen a growing number of entrepreneurs starting their own companies in the edibles market, which includes products such as baked goods, chocolates, and gummies infused with cannabis. Starting a business in the Canadian cannabis industry can be challenging due to regulations, but also offers significant opportunities for growth and success. To be successful, it's important for entrepreneurs to have a clear understanding of the market, consumer demand, and regulations.
Edibles are a rapidly growing segment of the Canadian cannabis market, and entrepreneurs who are able to offer high-quality, innovative products that meet consumer demand are likely to find success. Building a strong brand and establishing a positive reputation in the market can also be important for the long-term success of a cannabis edibles business, which is exactly what Angelina Blessed, owner of Blessed Edibles and Gallery Brands, has done.
The legacy market legend and MMA fighter used to make CBD-infused power balls in her kitchen however, she now uses patented emulsion technology, SōRSE by Valens, to manufacture products for Blessed Edibles and flir. This technology allows the company to transform cannabis oil into water-soluble forms that are utilized to infuse foods, liquids, and topicals without the taste or smell of cannabis. Blessed was created out of Angelina’s preference to stay away from pharmaceutical medications as she conquered injuries from her MMA fighting career.
She didn’t want painkillers, so she began making oils and butters which she shared with her teammates. After seeing so many positive effects, the brand grew from there. Now, Blessed plans to use her knowledge to focus on recipe development, cannabis education for athletes, and developing a bigger voice in the industry that can help change regulations. The participation of women in the Canadian cannabis industry is an important trend that will continue to shape the future of the industry. Their contributions are helping to drive innovation, growth, and diversity in the industry, and their impact is sure to be felt for many years to come.