Impact Business Support Specialist

Virginia Information Technologies Agency

About The Position

Program Development & Compliance • Assist in developing requirements for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) plans for cannabis establishment license applicants. • Support the creation and maintenance of impact licensee business accelerator plans. • Help establish approval processes and monitor the implementation of DEI plans. Research & Analysis • Conduct analysis of barriers to entry for impact businesses seeking to participate in the cannabis industry. • Contribute to recommendations for strategies to reduce barriers and promote equitable participation. Business Support & Technical Assistance • Provide guidance to potential impact business licensees on business planning and the application process. • Offer technical support for navigating administrative licensing procedures. Outreach & Community Engagement • Promote awareness of opportunities within the cannabis marketplace in historically economically disadvantaged communities. • Participate in outreach efforts in communities disproportionately affected by cannabis prohibition and enforcement. • Coordinate with public institutions of higher education, community organizations, and other stakeholders.

Requirements

Principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion in business and regulatory environments.
Cannabis industry regulations and licensing processes. (or other highly regulated industry experience)
Economic development and small business support strategies.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills for outreach and stakeholder engagement.
Analytical skills for identifying barriers and developing solutions.
Ability to assist with business planning and technical processes.
Work collaboratively within a team and with external partners.
Adapt to evolving regulatory requirements and program needs.
Build trust and credibility with diverse communities.
Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Economics, Social Sciences, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
Minimum of 3 years of experience in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, economic development, or business support.
Experience in community outreach and stakeholder engagement required.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Public Policy, Business Administration, Economics, Social Sciences, or related discipline.
Experience in cannabis industry regulation, social equity programs, or working with historically disadvantaged communities.
Familiarity with state licensing processes and public sector program development.

Responsibilities

Assist in developing requirements for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) plans for cannabis establishment license applicants.
Support the creation and maintenance of impact licensee business accelerator plans.
Help establish approval processes and monitor the implementation of DEI plans.
Conduct analysis of barriers to entry for impact businesses seeking to participate in the cannabis industry.
Contribute to recommendations for strategies to reduce barriers and promote equitable participation.
Provide guidance to potential impact business licensees on business planning and the application process.
Offer technical support for navigating administrative licensing procedures.
Promote awareness of opportunities within the cannabis marketplace in historically economically disadvantaged communities.
Participate in outreach efforts in communities disproportionately affected by cannabis prohibition and enforcement.
Coordinate with public institutions of higher education, community organizations, and other stakeholders.