Entrepreneurs Kim Caisey and Rickai Robinson have launched the Bermuda Cannabis Association, the island’s first self-regulatory organisation for the cannabis industry.

Ms Caisey said the for-profit BCA’s mission is to foster a professional, responsible and ethical cannabis industry in Bermuda.

In alignment with that mission, she said, the BCA will collaborate closely with its members, government officials and other stakeholders to develop robust policies and best practices that prioritise the safety, quality and efficacy of cannabis products.

The BCA (info@bermudacannabisassociation.com) will welcome individuals and members from businesses involved in medical cannabis, as well as the production, manufacturing, distribution and sales of cannabis products.

Ms Caisey is developing the BCA in the Ignite Bermuda entrepreneurial accelerator programme.

She said: “Our goal is to empower and guide our members in their pursuit of excellence, ensuring that the cannabis industry in Bermuda is built on a foundation of integrity and professionalism.”

To that end, the BCA has established the Bermuda Cannabis Training Institute.

Ms Caisey, a graduate of the virtual programme offered by Colorado’s Cannabis Training University, said the BCA has partnered with the Denver-headquartered institution to offer a virtual six-month introductory cannabis career training course in Bermuda that will run from January through June next year.

Graduates will earn ten industry certifications and be eligible to become members of the BCA.

Ms Caisey said: “Whether you are a budding entrepreneur or an established business owner, our structured, six-month support programme is tailored to meet your specific needs.”

She said the adults-only course is also open to anyone wishing to learn more, including what they may be consuming, given that edibles and pre-rolled joints are widely available in Bermuda.

“I feel like everybody should be educated in some way, in some shape or form. The products are all over the place – gas stations, pharmacies, mom and pop stores – it’s all over.”

Of her interest in founding the BCA, Ms Caisey said: “It’s an up and coming industry. It’s a very stigmatised industry, and I feel that it shouldn’t be, and I feel, with the education, that it can possibly change a lot of people’s minds how they view the plant.”

Further courses are planned for the second half of next year, including an advanced business course for those working in the cannabis sector, and a course for medical practitioners and their staff.

Ms Caisey said: “We understand that education is key to success in the cannabis industry. The Bermuda Cannabis Training Institute is committed to empowering individuals with the information and tools required to excel in the world of cannabis education and business.”

She said the BCA will offer members business support and guidance to help them to navigate the complex regulatory landscape of the industry in Bermuda, ensuring compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.

The body will also play an active role in the area of policy and regulation as lobbyists and advocates for the legalisation of cannabis.

At present, only products having a THC component of under 1 per cent are legal in Bermuda.

Ms Caisey said the BCA will work on improving the quality, health, safety and environmental practices of the industry — and help to set common standards for products, or for methodologies of working, across the island.

She said this will result in the publication of guidelines, codes of practice, information notes and education for the industry.

The BCA will also provide industry insights for its members so that they can stay on top of the latest developments in the cannabis sector, and provide networking opportunities.

Ms Caisey said: “The BCA invites all interested parties, including individuals, cannabis businesses, entrepreneurs and stakeholders, to become members and join in its mission to shape a responsible, professional and ethical cannabis industry in Bermuda.”