New York Public Colleges to Split $5M in Funding to Launch Cannabis Courses

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) on Monday announced that three State University of New York (SUNY) colleges and one City University of New York (CUNY) school will split $5 million in funding to support cannabis-related credential programs or course offerings that provide pathways to the cannabis industry.  

In a statement, Hochul said the funding will help “ensure that New Yorkers who want careers in this growing sector have the quality training they need to be successful.” 

“Diversity and inclusion are what makes New York’s workforce a competitive, powerful asset, and we will continue to take concrete steps to help ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate in the cannabis industry.” — Hochul in a press release 

The funding will support programs that will create or enhance non-degree and degree-eligible courses and programs, stackable credentials, and micro-credentials that address local employer skill needs within the cannabis sector. Campuses must also partner with local cannabis industry businesses for input on curriculum development. 

The three SUNY campuses, which will receive $1 million each, include Schenectady County Community College (SCCC), Niagara County Community College, (NCCC), and Orange County Community College (OCCC). Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) is the selected CUNY school and will receive $2 million.

SUNY Interim Chancellor Deborah F. Stanley said the program “is an exciting new field of study for those seeking a competitive edge when applying for careers in dispensaries, grow labs, or CBD and THC sales.” 

The SCCC program is expected to include 300 participants, the NCCC program is estimated to include more than 4,000 participants, the OCCC program is expected to include 200 participants, and the BMCC program is estimated to include more than 360 participants.