Rolling Into Cape Cod: Minority-Owned Cannabis Delivery ‘Tribal Fire’ Dishes Out Secret Sauce For Investors
In the heart of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Tribal Fire, a Native American-owned cannabis delivery service, is blazing a trail in the fast-growing cannabis industry. Founded by Chef John Marcellino, a member of the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe, and his wife, this family-run business stands out in a market that poses significant challenges for minority entrepreneurs.
As investors set their sights on the Massachusetts cannabis market, Tribal Fire offers key insights. Marcellino’s journey underscores the value of community partnerships, navigating strict regulations while meeting increasing demands for discreet, high-quality cannabis delivery.
Strategic Advice: Find The Right Partner
Securing funding was a major challenge for Marcellino. “We were dead in the water,” he said, noting the difficulty of raising capital while living on Massachusetts’ only tribal reservation. Although he completed the required paperwork and training with the Cannabis Control Commission (CCC), building the facility proved to be an even greater hurdle.
The turning point came when cannabis company Theory Wellness provided a $250,000 grant, allowing Tribal Fire to move forward. “It’s hard to go to banks in this industry,” Marcellino said. Thanks to this support, Tribal Fire officially opened on August 23, 2023.
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Delivering Cannabis In Massachusetts
For now, Marcellino’s team delivers only Theory Wellness products with the idea to …