The legal marijuana industry has more than its fair share of complexities, many of which make it particularly challenging to be a cannabusiness owner. And yet, the growth of marijuana-related businesses certainly isn’t slowing down anytime soon – because, as cannabis business owners know, there are some seriously promising rewards to reap.

By 2028, the global legal cannabis market is expected to exceed $70 billion, expanding more than 25% over the next several years alone (Grand View Research). Both medical marijuana and recreational cannabis are flourishing, so it’s no wonder that more and more entrepreneurs are ready to “go green” and get into this thriving industry.

But before you can begin to get customers and rake in the profits, you’re going to need someone that’s ready to make a cannabis investment. Seeking out investors is one of the best ways to get your business off the ground, especially because current marijuana laws eliminate the option of standard bank loans.

Here at Marijuana Marketing Xperts, we thought it was high time for a guide that breaks down exactly how to find cannabis investors – so here’s ours.

Use Cannabis Business Directories

A business directory is a detailed list of businesses, usually focusing on a specific industry or niche. For cannabis startups, a cannabis-specific directory can offer a multitude of benefits. By securing a listing for your business, you can boost SEO, spur online traffic, and strengthen your online visibility. Not only can potential customers find you in a cannabis business directory, but you can also connect with investors.

It’s common for investors to use directories as a tool to find startups and cannabis businesses that can benefit from the funding. You’re looking for an influx of cash; they’re seeking opportunities to make a great investment – it’s the perfect match.

Attend Cannabis Industry Events

Like directories, cannabis events are beneficial for businesses in many ways. The most obvious perk is access to industry-centered education and resources, with tons of seminars and speeches to help you learn how to build a successful cannabusiness. But beyond that, cannabis industry events are an ideal opportunity for networking with fellow industry professionals – and that includes potential investors.

Some of these events are targeted towards investors interested in the cannabis industry, but meeting an investor is a possibility at a wide variety of industry conferences, conventions, and more. Just be ready with a short but strong pitch because you never know when you’ll have a few moments of an investor’s attention.

Networking Online

Even though face-to-face meetings are valuable, connecting online can also be an incredibly productive means for professional networking. Businesses of all types find investors through digital routes such as social network sites, industry forums, and industry-specific websites or publications.

For example, you may want to look into cannabis-centric groups on professional social networking platforms, such as LinkedIn. You can also consider signing on to one of the cannabis social networks out there, some of which are focused solely on the business side of marijuana.

Communicate With Peers

There are so many successful businesses that began with a couple of friends (or relatives) who shared a common vision. Who says you can’t be the next entrepreneur with that kind of business origin story?

If your family and friends aren’t ready to go into business with you, they might still be able to come through in another way. Maybe they know someone that would be interested in hearing about your business idea – you really won’t know unless you ask.

Use Crowdfunding

Recently, crowdfunding has been a popular funding method for cannabis startups. It’s a unique way to get funding while also tapping interested consumers to serve as investors.

You can find several crowdfunding platforms online, but don’t forget to confirm their regulations for cannabis-related causes (you don’t want to lose funding just because you picked the wrong site). Some crowdfunded businesses offer an incentive for contributors, both to draw interest and show gratitude.

Build and Market a Blooming Business and Cannabis Brand

When it comes to figuring out how to get a bank loan to start a cannabis business, your options are pretty limited. But now that you’re well-equipped with strategies for finding cannabis investors, moving forward has just become a lot easier.

When you’re searching for investors, be prepared with a solid business plan and marketing strategy – after all, the goal is to prove that your idea is worth investing in. If you need help with cannabusiness marketing and branding, Marijuana Marketing Xperts is your go-to expert and partner in success.

Begin building a smart cannabusiness strategy when you contact us today!