Barely Capitalized: Pioneering Support for Women and Minority Startups in the Booming Cannabis Industry

LOS ANGELES-In a bold move to address the long-standing funding disparity faced by women and minority entrepreneurs in the cannabis sector, Highly Capitalized, a leading financial news service, is set to launch an innovative initiative called Barely Capitalized. Spearheaded by Leslie Plettner, a woman CEO, and designed by a female Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), Katelyn Kowalsky, this groundbreaking service aims to empower underrepresented startups by bridging the funding gap. With an unwavering commitment to inclusivity and diversity, Highly Capitalized seeks to level the playing field in this rapidly expanding industry.

The funding landscape for women and minority entrepreneurs has been marred by inequality, with dishearteningly low levels of startup capital allocated to these groups. Studies reveal a stark reality: women-owned startups receive a paltry fraction, often less than 3%, of the venture capital funding available. Similarly, minority-owned businesses face significant hurdles, with entrepreneurs from these communities securing only a fraction of the resources necessary for their ventures to thrive. This unjust disparity not only hampers individual entrepreneurs’ progress but also stifles innovation, diversity, and overall economic growth within the industry.

Highly Capitalized new section will be launching in September 2023, and will carry profiles of companies raising capital as we recognize the urgency of this issue and the need for change. The introduction of Barely Capitalized marks a pivotal moment for the company and the industry as a whole. This groundbreaking service will provide women-owned and minority startups in the cannabis industry with the essential resources and support needed to attract investor funding. Indeed, the name Barely Capitalized was conceived by Highly Capitalized’s partner and marketing consultant, Jane Whetzel who led the ”Women in Cannabis” study. It was from that research we decided to act.

The Women in Cannabis study was an eye opener showing the yawning inequalities between genders hat exist in cannabis entrepreneurs. Highly Capitalized was a proud media partner of that study.

One of the key features of Barely Capitalized is a dedicated section on the Highly Capitalized website that will host the pitch decks of companies seeking capital. This platform will serve as a springboard, propelling startups into the spotlight and exposing them to potential investors who have a genuine interest in supporting diverse entrepreneurs. The aim is to not only raise awareness but also to foster meaningful connections that can pave the way for successful funding rounds.

Leslie Plettner, CEO of Highly Capitalized

The service is free of charge. We charge just 2% commission on capital raised, after it is raised. Send your start up pitch deck to [email protected] and if your company is a decent bet, we will feature your company.

Setting Highly Capitalized apart from its competitors is its unique licensing to raise capital. This invaluable advantage enables the platform to go beyond mere exposure and offer comprehensive support throughout the funding process. Drawing on their expertise, Highly Capitalized’s team of seasoned professionals will guide entrepreneurs in crafting compelling pitches, connecting with suitable investors, and navigating the complexities associated with securing startup capital. By harnessing their knowledge and experience, Highly Capitalized ensures that deserving entrepreneurs receive the necessary guidance and resources to transform their visions into thriving businesses.

Importantly, the team at Highly Capitalized is fully committed to making this service accessible to all deserving startups. As a testament to their dedication, they have decided not to charge for the Barely Capitalized service. Instead, the company will take a small percentage of any capital raised through their platform. This model aligns their success with the success of the entrepreneurs they support, fostering a true partnership that propels the entire ecosystem forward.

It is worth noting that the team at Highly Capitalized has a remarkable track record in the cannabis industry. Having helped raise and close over $100 million in capital, their expertise and network have proven invaluable to numerous ventures. This extensive experience positions them as industry leaders and strengthens their ability to guide entrepreneurs towards fruitful funding outcomes.

Send your start up pitch deck to [email protected].