Navigating California's cannabis industry since the enactment of Prop 64 in 2016 has been riddled with challenges, including the influx of corporate funding, flawed legislation, organized crime, and economic hardships. Despite these substantial obstacles, numerous legacy and emerging equity operators persist, instilling hope in the industry's future, which brims with untapped potential. Over the past weekend Oakland's HomeGwn made its debut with the Garden of Trees Market, drawing a supportive community eager to back these equity and legacy brands.

HomeGwn began as a delivery service but has since evolved into something much bigger. It's founder, Quintin, wants to use the event series as a way to educate the public about organizations such as the The Equity Trade Network. Additionally, he seeks to spotlight local creatives eager to showcase their talents and connect with customers in a vibrant, party-like atmosphere. With panels hosted by Pastor Weed of the Smokin At Church podcast, local leaders had the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversation regarding the current state of our industry. 

While Alphonso "Tucky" Blunt of Blunts & Moore, who's East Oakland dispensary has been the target of numerous robberies, encourages people to vote for change, others emphasize the significance of voting with our dollars. Bryce Savoy, co-founder of Euphorium, a delivery service he runs alongside his mother, underscores the profound impact that each dollar has on supporting small businesses. "You gotta know that that dollar is going to something bigger than yourself. America is good with making us pay for shit we don't necessarily believe in. So if you believe in something, and you can have an impact with your dollar, then that's what you should be doing." 

Teaming up with Road Runner Co. as the retail partner, customers had the opportunity to seize holiday specials from some of their favorite equity brands including Oakland Extracts, Masion Bloom, and Queen Mary to name a few. Terryn of Oakland Extracts was stocked up with a variety of Puffco devices and sharing hefty dabs with those brave enough to try. The Zatix team was also in the building highlighting their award-winning Blue Guava alongside their sweeter Grape Guava and their elusive OG Diesel. 1 of A Kind, a local producer of psilocybin mushrooms and capsules, also joined the event, conveying their message about the therapeutic potential of these sacred substances. Alongside artists like Stoner Baby Nails and designers like Opulent Perspective, to name a few, the marketplace was the perfect place to discover new local talent and support some of our favorite legacy operators. 

The event took place at Bloc15 in Jack London Square. A large 10,000 square foot venue with plenty of seating and space for people to mingle and dance to the music. The crowd was full of creatives, fostering a symbiotic energy where each individual served as a source of inspiration for one another. Everyone present became both a contributor to and a beneficiary of this collective inspiration. Emphasizing the spirit of community and coming together to celebrate and uplift each other. The evening ended with live musical performances from local rappers Boss Life Spence, 10 Piece Tone and Kamaiyah, who definitely got the crowd up and moving. You know how we do it in the bay!

Quintin's goal is not only to keep throwing cannabis events, but to connect with and continue to uplift the local community. "We are just going to be really focused on being Home Grown and connecting to the areas we throw events in." He plans on taking HomeGrwn events all over the state in hopes of connecting with the local equity community and highlighting them. With his co-producers Taulib and Sean, Quintin thanks his corporate sponsors Uncle Arnie's and Nug who's allyship really helps make events like these possible. "We are definitely going to have a lot more events in the future" he continues "I just really want everyone who's like minded and wants to learn about cannabis, even if you don't smoke, and just want to come out to an event with good vibes, to joins us at the HomeGrwn events."