Three cannabis entrepreneurs were selected for the 2023 Female Founder 200 list compiled by Inc. magazine.
Brett Heyman of Edie Parker, Karson Humiston of Vangst and Kristi Palmer of Kiva Confections were among the women selected for the honor based on “how founders moved the needle in business and in their communities in the past 12 months.” Inc. editors made their selections based on financial success, in addition to other factors, including how each founder helped fellow entrepreneurs and women.
Heyman is known for bringing luxury design elements to the cannabis space, and was selected “for destigmatizing the cannabis industry through playful branding and products and benefiting the Women’s Prison Association,” according to Inc.
As the CEO of Vangst, Humiston leads one of the cannabis industry’s top staffing firms. In 2022, the company raised an eye-popping $19 million through its Series B. In 2016, Humiston was selected for Marijuana Venture’s inaugural 40 Under 40, back when Vangst was known as Gradjuana.
Palmer has been successful in cannabis for more than a decade, despite the many changes and the multitude of challenges the industry has seen. She co-founded Kiva in 2010 and has guided its expansion into 11 U.S. states and Canada — in addition to a first-of-its-kind partnership with Fatburger to release a limited edition infused ketchup earlier this year. Palmer was named to Marijuana Venture’s Women to Watch list in 2021.
“It may not always be easy, but it’s worth it and I’m thankful for all who encourage us to continue innovating and advocating,” Palmer said in a press release.
— Garrett Rudolph