NCSEF dedicates 27% of every course enrollment to our Financial Assistance Fund — ensuring that cost is never the reason someone's cannabis equity dream goes unrealized.
Unlike traditional scholarship programs that rely on donations or grants, NCSEF's Financial Assistance Fund is structurally embedded into our course revenue model. Every time someone enrolls, 27 cents of every dollar automatically flows into the Fund.
Our assistance program prioritizes individuals and communities most harmed by prohibition and least resourced to pursue the legal cannabis industry.
Those with prior cannabis arrests, convictions, or charges who face legal barriers to standard industry pathways.
Individuals from communities that experienced heightened drug enforcement during the War on Drugs era.
Applicants whose household income falls within established thresholds, verified through documentation.
Individuals with no prior cannabis business ownership who are entering the industry for the first time.
Women, BIPOC individuals, veterans, and others historically underrepresented in cannabis business ownership.
Those actively pursuing a social equity cannabis license in Kentucky or another state's equity program.
Award amounts are determined by financial need, program level, and fund availability at the time of application.
Our process is straightforward and respectful of your time. No lengthy essays — just the information we need to make a fair decision.
Fill out the form below with your personal background, financial situation, and which course you'd like to enroll in. No application fee — ever.
⏱ ~15 minutesWe'll request basic income verification and, if applicable, documentation of cannabis justice involvement. All records are kept strictly confidential.
📄 Simple docsOur review committee evaluates applications on a rolling basis. You'll receive a decision within 72 business hours of submitting complete documentation.
⚡ 72-hour avg.Approved applicants receive an enrollment link with your award applied. Your course access begins immediately upon enrollment confirmation.
🎓 Instant accessOur Financial Assistance Fund has helped power real outcomes in the communities that need it most.
The 50% assistance award made the Foundation Certificate accessible when nothing else would have been. Six months later, I submitted my social equity license application.
I had the knowledge and the drive but not the funds. NCSEF's full grant covered my Leadership Program and today I'm consulting for three equity applicants in Jefferson County.
Never thought professional cannabis education was for someone like me. The fund changed that narrative entirely. Now I mentor others going through the same process.
Complete the form below to begin your application. All information is confidential and reviewed by NCSEF staff only.
Assistance awards are subject to fund availability at time of application. Becoming an NCSEF member ($25/year) increases your award eligibility and provides an additional 20% tuition discount.