Ascend Wellness Holdings Inc. is teaming up with another longtime cannabis advocate to launch its newest dispensary in New Jersey.
Located at 601 Route 70 in Marlton, Ascend of Evesham launched in partnership with Michael Santana. The shop marked its grand opening with an Oct. 23 celebration.
A minority business owner and construction industry veteran, Santana brings extensive operational and leadership experience to his new venture. He also volunteers at expungement clinics across New Jersey to help individuals navigate the record-clearing process.
Ascend of Evesham will receive funding, operational support and product access to help build a sustainable, community-driven business. The backing comes from the multistate operator’s social equity program. Santana described the launch as “the culmination of years of hard work, learning and believing in the potential of this industry.”
A growing program
Ascend of Evesham marks the third dispensary that Ascend has opened in New Jersey through its social equity initiative.
Established in 2024, the program seeks to provide learning opportunities, mentorship, legal support and funding to social equity license holders and social equity candidates.
Ascend also helped launch East Coasting in Eatontown. Shown is owner Kyle Page. – PROVIDED BY EAST COASTING
Under that framework, Ascend helped launch Mister Jones in Little Falls and East Coasting in Eatontown within the past year. The New York-based MSO also has its own branded dispensaries in Rochelle Park, Wharton and Fort Lee.
The openings of Ascend of Evesham, Mister Jones and East Coasting come about three years after the state enacted a law allowing certified minority-, women- and disabled veterans-owned cannabusinesses to receive financial or technical supportfrom investors while keeping control of their companies.
Under the law, investors can own a limited stake under fair terms. However, ownership cannot revert to them if the venture defaults. By setting clear repayment timelines and terms, the measure seeks to expand equitable participation in the state’s legalized industry..
Going green
Ascend Vice President of Social Equity Danielle Drummond said Santana’s “entrepreneurial spirit, commitment to his community, and dedication to building opportunities for others make him an ideal partner.”
“Through our social equity partnership program, we aim to help entrepreneurs access the tools, training, and support needed to succeed in this industry. Michael has demonstrated the leadership, determination, and operational excellence needed to build a thriving business, and we are proud to support him as he opens Ascend of Evesham,” she went on.
