The program included $25,000-plus awarded to current and aspiring industry professionals and was backed by 25 industry partners.
[PRESS RELEASE] – SEATTLE, Oct. 15, 2025 – DaySavers, the smoking accessories brand from Custom Cones USA and the most innovative and transparent smoking accessories company in the industry, is proud to announce its first class of winners of the Higher Potential Scholarship – a first-of-its-kind initiative to help forge the next generation of cannabis business leaders.
More than 200 awards with a total value of over $25,000 were handed out to deserving, passionate students and professionals from around the country, including mentorships, industry access, financial assistance and tuition-free education and training, and one $1,420 cash scholarship awarded to one outstanding applicant.
The Higher Potential Scholarship Coalition includes 25 businesses and organizations – ranging from cultivators and creators to educators, advocates, policymakers, scientists, researchers, directors, founders and executives. Together, they’re offering invaluable insights and awards, with more than half increasing their initial contributions to ensure every candidate receives the developmental resources they deserve.
The initiative is part of DaySavers’ broader mission to advance cannabis education, equity and industry innovation.
Founding sponsors include Ganjier, SUNY Niagara and Cannabis & Tech Today, among others.
“These awards will help provide potentially life-changing access to education about one of the fastest-growing and most exciting industries in the country, impacting both the lives of the students and the business of cannabis in general,” said James Valentine, DaySavers’ communications and content marketing manager and scholarship administrator. “This is an investment in people and in the future of the industry.”
Award recipients come from 30 different states, with every applicant receiving resources to advance their industry dreams.
Winners were selected based on their application and personal essay detailing their background, interests, passion and journey in the cannabis space. Location was also considered for region-specific prizes.
The $1,420 cash scholarship was awarded by DaySavers to Talia Romero of Winton, Calif.
Other top prize winners include:
Other Higher Potential Scholarship recipients received:
For more information, visit: https://daysavers.com/higher-potential-scholarship/
