The Salal Business Services team is proud to announce its sponsorship of the Social Equity Scholarship Lounge at the upcoming Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, taking place from June 8 to 10, 2025, in Chicago. This initiative directly aligns with our ongoing mission to create a more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable cannabis industry—particularly for entrepreneurs and business owners from historically underserved communities.
The Social Equity Scholarship Lounge, part of Benzinga’s larger Social Equity Initiatives, provides an inclusive space and critical support to conference attendees who have received equity scholarships. This space offers networking opportunities, professional development resources, and a welcoming environment to help social equity participants navigate the cannabis business landscape.
“We believe in a cannabis industry where everyone has the opportunity to thrive,” said Christoffer McCollom, Salal Business Banking Manager. “Sponsoring the Scholarship Lounge reflects our long-standing commitment to financial access, social justice, and economic empowerment.”
A Leader in Cannabis Banking Since 2014
Salal Credit Union has been a national leader in providing safe, compliant, and customized financial services for the cannabis industry. Since the launch of our cannabis industry banking program more than a decade ago, we have supported hundreds of businesses with services, including:
- Cash management and secure logistics
- Business checking and lending
- Real estate and equipment financing
- Employee banking, credit cards, and personal lending
- Fraud prevention and digital banking tools
Our services are designed to help cannabis businesses operate safely, grow sustainably, and reduce risk in an evolving regulatory environment.
Supporting Equity Beyond the Conference
Salal’s support for social equity in cannabis extends far beyond sponsorships. Through our Cannabis Social Equity banking program, we offer tailored financial services for social equity licensees and ancillary businesses that qualify as equity applicants. Our program helps remove financial barriers, build stronger communities, and provide a pathway to success for those most impacted by past cannabis criminalization.
“Social equity isn’t just a program—it’s a long-term commitment,” said McCollom. “We’re here to be a financial partner to equity operators every step of the way.”
Meet Us at Benzinga
If you’re attending the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, we invite you to stop by the Social Equity Scholarship Lounge and connect with the Salal Business Services team. Whether you’re launching a startup, scaling your operation, or seeking support for your team, we’re here to help.
Event Details
What: Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference
When: June 8–10, 2025
Where: Marriott Magnificent Mile, Chicago, IL
