NuProject, in partnership with Prosper Portland, has opened applications for the Funding Growth Cohort — a free, six-month business development program designed for founders working in Oregon’s licensed and regulated market. The cohort provides targeted support in financial systems, capital readiness, and operational strategy, helping entrepreneurs strengthen and scale in an industry where access to resources remains limited.
This opportunity is for people who want to open a business in the cannabis industry, whether that be ancillary and/or plant touching.
This opportunity directly aligns with ongoing regional efforts to expand equitable participation and diversify the supply chain within Portland’s regulated market.
- Program: Funding Growth Cohort
- Cost: Free
- Length: 6 months
- Designed For: Founders operating in Oregon’s licensed market (plant-touching + ancillary)
- Deadline: December 31
- Apply: nuproject.org/pdxcohort
Apply for the Funding Cohort by December 31
The Portland Cannabis Financial Technical Assistance Program: Funding Growth Cohort is a free six-month program that helps small businesses in or adjacent to the cannabis industry prepare for funding, scale, and long-term sustainability. This hands-on program combines financial training, online educational resources, one-on-one coaching and group workshops to help founders get investor-ready.
Participants will gain:
● Go-to-market strategies
● Financial acumen and fundraising support
● Pro forma and business valuation guidance
● Access to capital strategies
● Cash management and projections
● Investor-readiness coaching
Who Should Apply:
This opportunity is open to any cannabis business—including licensed operators, ancillary companies, white-label brands, and brand new business owners. Businesses must be registered as a business entity with the City of Portland.
Eligibility Requirements:
1. Business must be headquartered in Portland, OR
2. Business must be a small business with annual revenue under $1.5 million
Key Dates
Application Deadline: December 31, 2025. Spots are limited
How to Apply: Complete the application
Grow Your Business in Portland’s Regulated Cannabis Industry
NuProject’s Funding Growth Cohort is a free, 6-month program designed specifically for founders operating in Oregon’s licensed market. Strengthen your financial systems, prepare to raise capital, and get support from coaches who understand the realities of running a plant-based enterprise.
Register by December 31
NuProject funds and mentors historically-excluded entrepreneurs in the legal cannabis industry. Our mission is to increase equity, access, and sustainability by investing in small business owners through funding, financial readiness assistance, and capacity-building programs. In partnership with Prosper Portland, we’re expanding opportunities for Portland-based entrepreneurs to gain the tools and confidence needed for long-term growth and success. To date, NuProject has funded $4.8M to historically-excluded entrepreneurs and provided more than 5,000 coaching hours.
