Full-Service Cannabis Consulting Tailored to Washington's Unique Market Needs
Catalyst BC offers comprehensive guidance and solutions, customized to help your business thrive in Washington’s regulated cannabis industry. Contact us today to get started!
About Washington
Washington is a state located in the Pacific Northwest, known for its mountainous terrain, lush forests, and thriving tech industry. With a population of over 7.6 million, its largest city, Seattle, is a global tech hub and home to major corporations like Microsoft and Amazon. Washington’s diverse economy also includes agriculture, aerospace, and tourism.
The state is famous for its progressive policies, commitment to sustainability, and vibrant cultural scene. Washington’s natural beauty, including Mount Rainier and the San Juan Islands, draws millions of visitors each year.
Legal Status of Cannabis in Washington
Cannabis is fully legal for both recreational and medical use in Washington State. In 2012, Washington became one of the first two states in the U.S. to legalize recreational cannabis through Initiative 502, which permits adults aged 21 and over to possess up to one ounce of cannabis, up to 16 ounces of cannabis-infused products, or 72 ounces of cannabis-infused liquid. Recreational cannabis sales are heavily regulated by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB), which oversees the licensing of producers, processors, and retailers. Additionally, medical cannabis has been legal in Washington since 1998, allowing patients with qualifying conditions to obtain cannabis for medical use with a doctor’s recommendation.
The state also imposes a significant excise tax on the retail sale of cannabis, with revenue directed toward education, healthcare, and substance abuse programs. Cannabis businesses are required to comply with strict state regulations concerning packaging, advertising, and distribution to ensure consumer safety. Despite the legality of cannabis within the state, federal cannabis laws still prohibit its transportation across state lines. Washington has seen significant economic growth from its cannabis industry while challenges related to equity and addressing the legacy of the war on drugs remain ongoing priorities.
Catalyst BC, in alignment with the state’s efforts, provides Washington hemp and cannabis cultivators, farmers, businesses, and suppliers extensive seed-to-sale support including licensing and applications, business strategy, financial planning, start-up support and more.
Legal Status of Hemp Farming in Washington
Hemp farming is legal in Washington State and is regulated under both state and federal laws. Since the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, Washington farmers have been able to legally grow hemp, provided they comply with the state’s licensing and regulatory requirements, overseen by the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA). Farmers must apply for a license through the WSDA and submit to annual testing to ensure that their hemp crops contain less than 0.3% THC, as per federal guidelines. Hemp can be grown for a variety of uses, including fiber, seeds, and CBD production. To be positioned for maximum success, it’s highly recommended to growers and farmers to consult with Catalyst BC to receive expert guidance in application processes, operational optimization, and overall business operations to remain profitable and compliant with state requirements.
Washington has been at the forefront of hemp cultivation in the U.S. due to its ideal climate for growing the crop and its well-established agricultural infrastructure. The state also has a strong focus on research and innovation in hemp production, supporting farmers with resources to promote sustainable practices and economic growth in the hemp industry. Washington’s hemp program has expanded rapidly, and the state continues to lead in hemp innovation, offering opportunities for both small-scale farmers and large agricultural operations.
Navigating the Complexities of Operating a Cannabis or Hemp Business in Washington
Washington’s cannabis market is one of the most developed in the U.S., but businesses still face challenges related to compliance and local regulations.
Catalyst BC provides strategic consultation to help Washington businesses navigate these complexities and optimize their operations for long-term sustainability. Contact Catalyst BC today for a complimentary consultation in Business Strategy, Financial Planning, Licensing & Applications, Facility Design, Startup Support, Operational Optimization, Genetic Development, and Cannabis Business Turnaround tailored to Washington’s regulations.
Free eBook: Starting A Legal Cannabis Business
Discover the secrets to building a thriving cannabis business with our free eBook, Starting a Legal Cannabis Business: From Formation to Acquisition! This comprehensive guide walks you through every stage of launching and scaling a cannabis business, from navigating regulations and securing licenses to optimizing operations and planning your exit strategy. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or an experienced operator, this resource is packed with expert insights to help you succeed in this dynamic industry. Download your free copy today and take the first step toward cannabis business success!
Other Services
Business Strategy
Collaborative efforts to create a personalized and comprehensive business and operational plans tailored to your market, resources, and vision.
Financial Planning
Strategy and creation of a bespoke financial model based on historical inputs specific to selected corporate structure, facilities, and market conditions.
Licensing & Applications
Catalyst has secured over 57 licenses in merit-based and highly competitive application and RFP processes with a win rate of nearly 96%
Facility Design
Design-assist aligns designs and calculations with proven methods, equipment, and systems successfully used in world-class facilities.
Startup Support
Proven expertise and track record of supporting licensed and conditionally licensed businesses from build-out to operational excellence.
Genetic Development
Design and implement propagation and breeding programs that produce unique and proprietary cultivars that maximize productivity and profitability.
Business Turnaround
Our team brings over 60 years of regulated cannabis industry experience, expertly assessing situations, crafting strategies, and achieving client goals.
Operational Optimization
Catalyst's team of experts provides guidance and support for all types of cannabis business, including cultivation, retail, extraction, distribution, and delivery
Contact Us
Enough about us. We want to hear more about you, your project, and your vision! Get in touch with a real live person today. Don’t worry, we don’t have a long, confusing phone menu, and your email isn’t going to the abyss, we promise. At Catalyst, we provide the service and support we’d want to experience ourselves!