Countless women are helping shape the cannabis industry through leadership, advocacy, and innovation. They set new standards, amplify others, and break barriers for future leaders. A shining example is Dr. Roz McCarthy. The entrepreneur and educator received a special Grass Ceiling Honor at the IgniteIt Chicago Cannabis Capital Conference in recognition of more than a decade of advancing equity and inclusion in cannabis.
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McCarthy is the founder and CEO of Minorities 4 Medical Marijuana (M4MM), a nonprofit that promotes diversity and equity in cannabis through advocacy, education, research, and community outreach. She has spent more than a decade helping aspiring cannabis professionals navigate the industry while advocating for justice in cannabis policy.
McCarthy is also the CEO and founder of Black Buddha Cannabis, a wellness-centered brand. After suffering a traumatic brain injury in a car accident, McCarthy said she was inspired to help other patients access the cannabis that she credits with improving her quality of life.
Presented by CannStudio and GreenState, the Grass Ceiling Honors celebrate women and nonbinary changemakers redefining the cannabis industry. Organizers recognized McCarthy for her long-standing efforts to support entrepreneurs and advance equity in the industry. She told GreenState it’s the right thing to do.
“If you’re in a position of influence, if you have the opportunity to uplift another woman, it pays itself back in spades,” McCarthy said.
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McCarthy added that the recognition was especially meaningful because its mission aligns with her own values.
“I’ve received awards over the 10 years I’ve been in the industry,” McCarthy shared. ”I think this is particularly important because women are supporting women.”
Nominations are currently open for the 2026 Grass Ceiling Honors. One recipient from each of five U.S. regions will be recognized at Blunt Brunch Nationals during Cannabis Week in Las Vegas. Honorees will receive a complimentary MJBizCon pass, a one-year Blunt Brunch membership, and media and marketing opportunities designed to amplify their businesses.
The 2026 nominations aim to recognize more leaders following McCarthy’s example by expanding opportunity and supporting others across the cannabis industry.
