Forbes has unveiled its Cannabis 42.0 list, recognizing 42 entrepreneurs and innovators who are significantly impacting the cannabis industry in 2025. This fourth edition highlights founders and operators who are not affiliated with publicly traded companies, emphasizing their contributions across various sectors, including technology, edibles, and flower cultivation.
Among the notable figures is Jason Vedadi, who previously played a pivotal role at Harvest Health and is now expanding Story Cannabis into new markets like Maryland and Ohio. His plans for national growth reflect a broader trend of state-level expansion in the cannabis sector.
Imelda Walavalkar and Tracy Anderson co-founded Pure Beauty, a brand supported by well-known figures like Nas and Timbaland. They have gained recognition for their mini joints and THC beverages, coupled with a distinctive design aesthetic that appeals to a diverse consumer base.
Prince Yousif, who established House of Dank after overcoming legal challenges related to cannabis, has successfully built a Detroit-based chain generating $150 million in revenue. His story underscores the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit within the industry.
Christine Apple, founder of Grön, has created a leading edibles brand in markets including Arizona, Missouri, New Jersey, Oregon, and Canada—all without venture capital backing. This achievement demonstrates the potential for independent brands to thrive in a competitive landscape.
Brady Cobb, transitioning from political strategist to CEO, leads Sunburn Cannabis by merging cannabis culture with contemporary retail strategies in Florida. Meanwhile, James Kim drives STIIIZY to the forefront of the market, producing nearly 100,000 vapes daily and adopting a street-first approach that resonates with consumers.
Sebastian Solano and Lukasz Tracz co-founded Jeeter, known for its infused pre-rolls that have captured significant market share in California through their unique flavors and potency. Kristi and Scott Palmer’s Kiva Confections also stands out, with their products becoming staples in the edibles category, widely distributed across the nation.
Ted Lidie of Alien Labs has established a boutique brand synonymous with high-quality flower and sought-after genetics, earning a loyal following among cannabis enthusiasts in California. Additionally, Christine Silber, CEO of Edible Brands, is expanding her plant-based cannabis wellness products from Atlanta, tapping into the growing demand for health-oriented cannabis options.
Innovators Harold Han and Ben Larson lead Vertosa, which specializes in cannabinoid emulsions for major beverage brands, pushing the boundaries of product development in the cannabis drink sector. Jake Bullock and Luke Anderson’s Cann has made waves with its low-dose beverages, appealing to consumers seeking a mild social experience, backed by prominent investors.
Jim Higdon and Eric Zipperle of Cornbread Hemp are expanding their reach with USDA-certified organic products rooted in Kentucky, while the team at Green Check Verified plays a vital role in addressing banking and compliance needs for cannabis businesses.
Co-founders Kim Sanchez Rael and Ron Silver at Azuca are pioneers in creating fast-acting cannabinoid infusions, enhancing the consumer experience in edibles and beverages. Meanwhile, Max Koby, Kevin Koby, and Jack Peat III of Abstrax Tech are innovating with terpenes and sensory science, contributing to product differentiation in the cannabis market.
Case Mandel, CEO of Cannadips, is merging cannabis with lifestyle branding through dip-style pouches, while Cy Scott’s Headset serves as the go-to platform for data analytics and retail insights in the industry. Nohtal Partansky’s Sorting Robotics is advancing automation tools for cannabis manufacturing, improving productivity in post-harvest operations.
Roger Volodarsky of Puffco is redefining the dabbing experience with innovative vaporizer designs that have garnered a cult following. Boy and Shai Ramsahai lead Royal Queen Seeds, a well-known seed bank in Europe, as they expand into North America.
The 2025 Cannabis 42.0 list highlights the dynamic and rapidly evolving cannabis industry, showcasing the entrepreneurs driving innovation despite ongoing challenges like federal prohibition and regulatory hurdles. To view the full list and details on each honoree, visit Forbes: Cannabis 42.0.
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