As the cannabis industry in DC continues to grow, many budding (like that pun?) entrepreneurs are looking to get into the game by becoming a vendor. With DC having some of the most confusing marijuana laws in the country, it’s no surprise that many entrepreneurs don’t know where to start. We created this guide to help YOU get your foot in the door of DC’s cannabis industry.

1.) Read Initiative 71

2.) Create A Brand Identity

The beginning of any great company is a strong brand identity. Start by identifying what makes you different than other DC vendors. This will help you with coming up with a name, business model, etc.

Once you’ve created your brand identity, you will need to create a logo, a website and a google maps listing. A strong website is the foundation of any successful DC vendor. By investing in SEO services you can drive more traffic to your website.

Next, create your listing on 420dc.com – take advantage of our THOUSANDS of weekly visitors. For increased exposure, consider upgrading your listing to a featured listing.

Lastly, you need to pick an email list provider (we use aweber) and start building your list. Create your email list from the very beginning. Not only is it a great way to keep in constant contact with your consumers – it’s also a great safety net in case your Instagram page gets deleted.

3.) Stock Up

Determine which legal items you’ll be selling. Be aware that you will have to obtain some degree of business licensing from Washington, DC in order to sell your legal items. Some of the most popular items are sticker, raffle tickets ,or t-shirts. However, depending on your brand, you may decide to be more creative and sell an item that is unique to your company. Be sure to consider your margins when considering your legal items. It’s usually in vendors best interested to buy their legal items in bulk.

You will also need a variety of other essential equipment to vend at an event. The most important items include a 4ft table, display cases and/or magnifying jars, lights w/ daytime bulbs, and a bong or dab rig. You can find the largest selection of bongs, dab rigs, and pipes at Green Goddess Supply..

4.) Setup Shop

So now that you have your brand identity and your business operations setup, it’s time to get out there and start vending. If you haven’t already, begin creating relationships with other vendors and hosts. You can do this at events, through Instagram, in Facebook groups, etc.

You will have to be between $150 – $500 to setup shop at each event.

Remember…

Stay educated and know the law. Knowing your rights will protect you AND your customers.

Sharpen your skills. As a professional you should always be looking to master your craft. If you want to grow your knowledge of the business of cannabis and/or educate your staff on cannabis then Green CultureED is for you. Their Cannabis College will train you on how to become a skilled cannabis professional and take your business to the next level.

Always be friendly and professional with your customers. As a vendor, you’re operating in the customer service industry, act like it.

Focus on quality and consistency. Don’t make short term decisions with long term consequences. If you’re in this for the long run, your brand is your biggest asset, so don’t tarnish it.

Continue to create relationships. Sharing information is key and If you look to help others, they will return the favor.

If you found this article helpful, please share it with others who are interested in becoming a cannabis vendor in DC.