Let’s say you have a business plan and you’re ready to make your cannabis business official. What are your next steps? How do you make it happen? Who do you talk to? 

In this episode, I’m interviewing Sarah Yoell, the manager of local government affairs for the Bay area for PG&E. Sarah shares her knowledge and advice on how to navigate the local government departments in order to start the paperwork for your cannabis business. 

While each city or county government can vary slightly, you’ll be able to use this advice and take actionable steps to get your business started. 

In this episode, you’ll learn…

[03:52] What constituents are (P.S. it’s you!) and the power they hold in local affairs

[08:16] Sarah walks us through the process of fundraising for an elected official and how someone who may not have the resources can get their foot in the door

[09:19] Sarah breaks down what the city manager/city administrator’s office does

[16:34] Why you should check the city’s redevelopment plan to make sure it doesn’t conflict with your business plan

[20:40] What you need to know about the business license and finance department 

[22:49] A quick rundown on the public safety department, and a story about how Sarah’s husband wrote Salwa’s safety plan

[29:53] Sarah’s tips on how a small business going through the process can compete with larger competitors

Get full notes and a transcript at https://highsalwa.com/2023/05/31/how-to-work-with-your-local-government-as-a-cannabis-business-owner-with-sarah-chavez-yoell/

Let me help you save time and money in the industry with my templates on winning licenses in multiple cannabis markets. Visit my website for all the pre-rolled downloads you’ll need to get started: https://highsalwa.com/