Fresno gets educated on cannabis industry

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The Valley-based 420 College, has led seminars throughout the state and for the first time brought class to the city of Fresno.

The creators of 420 College treat it like a small business workshop, introducing the ins and outs of entrepreneurship. In addition to understanding the complexities of state and local laws, the class covered everything from cultivation to cannabis sales.

Budding business owners alike enrolled in 420 College for the weekend. The seminar, growing in popularity throughout the state, made its first Fresno stop.

420 College COO, Marisela Hamm, says with the state's legalization of recreational marijuana she wants to prepare small business owners for an industry boom.

"There's so much confusion, misconception, and a big stigma so we want to make sure and let the public know what to prepare for in the cannabis industry, Hamm said.

The Valley-based company allowed students to meet with cultivators, realtors and industry experts. An attorney was also on hand, as students voiced their concerns and questions regarding local restrictions.

In December, the city of Fresno approved a marijuana ordinance for medical use. The vote was a victory, allowing the council to start talking about allowing medicinal growing, processing and sales in Fresno.

Nearly 100 recreational marijuana stores in California now have the necessary permits to be open for business.

Voters paved the way in November 2016, with the passing of Proposition 64, New Year's Day became the first legal day to sell marijuana and its products for "recreational" or, adult use. However, the Central Valley locations where you can buy recreational pot will be limited.

Two dispensaries are expected to open in the small Tulare County city of Woodlake.

Mendota's City Council recently approved to allow a massive commercial marijuana business to set up shop in the town's industrial area.