These Are The Cannabis Industry’s Power Players, According To Forbes
Every year, Forbes drops its Cannabis 42.0 list just in time for the industry’s high holiday. This year, the fourth edition of the list celebrates 42 entrepreneurs, innovators and operators shaping the future of the legal cannabis market despite ongoing federal prohibition, tax burdens and a still-sidelined DEA.
Edited by Will Yakowicz and Simone Melvin, the list draws from nearly 200 candidates and honors founders, builders, and disruptors who are not part of publicly traded companies, shining a spotlight on the ground-level operators who are turning cannabis into one of the most dynamic sectors in American business.
Below are some of the standouts featured in the 2025 edition. To see the full list, head over to Forbes: Cannabis 42.0.
Standouts From The 2025 Cannabis 42.0 List
Jason Vedadi
The former Harvest Health architect is now leading Story Cannabis into new markets, including Maryland and Ohio, with plans for national growth.
Imelda Walavalkar (with Tracy Anderson)
Co-founders of Pure Beauty, the Nas and Timbaland-backed brand known for its mini joints, THC beverages and vibrant design aesthetic.
Prince Yousif
After serving time for …