Courtesy of SLA Solutions
While New York state is not yet accepting cannabis licensing applications, SLA Solutions is actively preparing for that day. SLA founder Robert Heil, along with his team, has been assisting clients with licensing needs for nearly 20 years. “We understand state requirements, and will be ready when applications can be issued. We have increased our staff, expanded our office space, and automated our computer processes to handle a higher volume of clients,” says Heil.
SLA has grown from handling licensing applications to becoming a full-service small business consulting firm. Wendy Francis works in SLA’s Cannabis Division. A former CBD wholesaler, she holds an MS certification from Cannabis Training University, a certificate in Medical Cannabis and CBD, an accounting degree, and a human resources certificate from Cornell. Upon entering the CBD business, Francis said, “I was shocked by the challenges involved in everything from credit card processing, insurance, banking, and websites, as all are strictly monitored.”
Recognizing that cannabis is not embraced by everyone, Heil says that many people are hesitant due to its stigmatization as a gateway drug. As a result, he looks to Francis to educate people. Meanwhile, Francis believes that it is a mistake for state municipalities to opt out of licenses, saying, “I’d rather see towns and villages become active in the regulation process to ensure better product control and safety for consumers. Additionally, licensed dispensaries require ID and proof to ensure that cannabis is kept out of the hands of minors.”
As the SLA team readies itself for the application process and cannabis business training, they want to ensure current and prospective clients that they will be ready to accept and process their applications.
