social equity cannabis banking.

Compliant cannabis banking and financial services for social equity licensees nationwide. Bank, borrow, operate, and grow with experienced cannabis banking relationship managers, dedicated support, and discounted fees.

Safe Harbor provides cannabis banking and financial services designed specifically for licensed cannabis businesses. We work with social equity operators across multiple states and understand the requirements tied to social equity licensing, banking, and compliance.

Business Checking and savings
Preparing for Schedule III

Why Social Equity Operators Choose Safe Harbor

• Built exclusively for cannabis businesses
• Serving licensed operators nationwide since 2015
• Dedicated cannabis banking specialists
• Financial services that support banking, lending, and operations

All clients are evaluated using consistent, risk-based compliance standards aligned with cannabis regulations.

Social Equity Fee Discount

Verified social equity operators receive 20% off recurring monthly banking fees for the life of the relationship, while accounts remain in good standing. This reflects Safe Harbor’s long-term commitment to supporting social equity cannabis businesses.

Preparing for Schedule III
Preparing for Schedule III

Financial and Operational Support Beyond Banking

Banking is the foundation, but operating a cannabis business requires broader financial infrastructure.

Safe Harbor supports social equity operators through a connected financial services ecosystem, including:

• Financial reporting, bookkeeping, and accounting support
• Tax and financial advisory referrals
• Payroll and HR solutions
• Access to trusted cannabis service providers through Safe Harbor Advantage

These services help ensure your financial systems support your business as it operates and grows.

Safe Harbor is a partner of BIPOCann, a national organization focused on supporting social equity cannabis entrepreneurs through education, mentorship, and business development. This partnership helps connect clients with additional resources designed to support long-term success.

Start Your Social Equity Banking Conversation

Whether you are preparing for licensure, opening your first account, or expanding your business, Safe Harbor can help you understand your options and establish the financial foundation your business needs.

Verified social equity operators receive 20% off recurring monthly banking fees.

Preparing for Schedule III

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions? Contact us anytime—we’re here to help.
What is a social equity cannabis license?

Social equity licenses are issued by state or local cannabis regulators to expand opportunity for individuals and communities disproportionately impacted by cannabis prohibition. Eligibility criteria vary by state and jurisdiction.

Safe Harbor relies on official state or municipal social equity designations for verification.

Can social equity cannabis businesses open bank accounts?

Yes. Social equity licensees are fully licensed cannabis businesses and can qualify for compliant banking services if they meet regulatory and compliance requirements.

Does a prior cannabis conviction disqualify me from banking?

No. A prior cannabis conviction alone does not automatically disqualify a business. Each business is evaluated based on its current license, operations, and compliance.

What services are available to social equity clients?

Social equity clients have access to Safe Harbor’s full financial services platform, including cannabis business banking, payments, payroll solutions, financial support services, and access to lending where available.

What is the social equity fee discount?

Verified social equity operators receive 20% off recurring monthly banking fees, applied after verification and maintained while accounts remain in good standing.

Do I need to already be licensed to open an account?

No. Safe Harbor offers pre-operational cannabis business accounts for operators who are preparing to apply for a license or are in the licensing process. These accounts allow you to establish a banking relationship early, at a fixed-rate as well as at a reduced cost, while you complete licensing requirements.

In some states, having a cannabis business bank account is required as part of the application process or can strengthen your application. Our team can help you establish compliant financial infrastructure so you are prepared as your business moves forward.

Does Safe Harbor offer help beyond banking?

Yes. Through Safe Harbor Advantage, clients can access trusted cannabis service providers offering accounting, payroll, insurance, tax advisory, and operational support.

Is Safe Harbor available nationwide?

Safe Harbor supports licensed cannabis businesses across the United States, including operators participating in state social equity programs.