So you want to work in weed? Not just post about it. Not just scroll past it. But really do it.
Grow it. Study it. Sell it. Heal with it. Build something lasting.
Turns out, there’s a scholarship for that.
It’s called the Higher Potential Scholarship, and it’s offering free education, mentorship, and industry access to more than 100 aspiring cannabis professionals across the U.S. Backed by a coalition of educators, entrepreneurs, scientists, and media folks who actually give a damn, this thing is more than lip service.
What’s on the table?
Let’s start with free seats in top programs like Ganjier and SUNY Niagara’s cannabis horticulture courses, plus one-on-one mentorships with leaders from Custom Cones USA, CannaSexual, The Network of Applied Pharmacognosy, and others.
Winners also get passes to MJBizCon, NECANN, and CannaCon — some of the biggest industry gatherings in the world. That means access to job leads, investor conversations, mentorship, and—maybe most important—a seat at the table.
And yes, there’s also a $1,420 cash prize.
“This is about opening doors that usually stay shut,” said Derek Gilman, Managing Director at Ganjier and one of the program’s key advisors. “We’re not asking people to already be experts—we’re looking for passion, commitment, and a real connection to the plant.”
Who can apply?
Anyone in the U.S. aged 18 or over (21+ for events), whether you’re already working in cannabis, just starting out, or simply trying to find your lane.
The process is straightforward:
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Explore the available scholarships and events
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Submit your application and personal essay (500 words max)
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Share your story—your journey, your goals, your passion
Some programs close as early as August 1, with most applications due by September 1, 2025.
“There’s no one path into this industry,” said Ashley Manta, founder of CannaSexual, who’s offering mentorships through the scholarship. “But people need guidance. They need a hand up, not a handout.”
A coalition with higher values
The Higher Potential Scholarship isn’t backed by just one brand. It’s supported by nearly 20 organizations that specialize in everything from education and cultivation to publishing, policy, and patient care.
This includes:
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Ganjier
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SUNY Niagara
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Network of Applied Pharmacognosy
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Cannabis Tech Today
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Sage Advice
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Custom Cones USA
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Camp Laughing Grass
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CannaSexual
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Veterinary Cannabis Society
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Marijuana Venture
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The Mycelia Group
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Operator Academy
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DaySavers (lead organizer)
The idea is simple: remove barriers, elevate talent, build community. Whether you’re a budtender, a student, a vet tech, a rolling teacher, or just someone who wants to grow, this is a real shot.
“This scholarship isn’t just about education,” said Jessica Ferranti, founder of The Mycelia Group. “It’s about making sure the future of cannabis actually looks like the world we live in.”
How to get started
You can apply directly at daysavers.com/higher-potential-scholarship. You’ll need to write a short essay about who you are, what you’re doing, and why you care.
No fee. No weird tests. No legacy status required.
Final Hit
A lot of people say they want to diversify cannabis.
A lot of companies post the right slogans.
But this? This is people putting up real time, real seats, and real money.
If you’ve got the passion, they’ve got your back.
So don’t scroll past it. Share it. Apply. And if you’re in a position to help next year? Step up.
