How to Become a Cannabis Entrepreneur: A Book Review of The Successful Canna-preneur by JM Balbuena
- Ishqa Hillman
- Nov 7, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 14
The Practical Guide to Thrive in the Legal Cannabis Space
By JM BALBUENA

"The Successful Canna-Preneur is the resource guide you want to fit in your pocket whether new to the industry or just curious. JM's personal journey is one the most inspirational movies are made of and her desire to help others translates on every page."
- Ishqa
Why The Successful Canna-preneur Is Essential for Aspiring Cannabis Entrepreneurs
In a sea of cannabis business advice, JM Balbuena stands out with clarity, heart, and lived experience. The Successful Canna-preneur offers a blueprint for building a legal cannabis business with integrity, purpose, and strategy.
What Sets This Cannabis Entrepreneur Book Apart
Unlike surface-level overviews or overly technical guides, this book strikes a balance between personal story and actionable guidance. JM shares what it actually takes to thrive—not just survive—in the cannabis space.
What You’ll Learn in The Successful Canna-preneur
How to Enter the Cannabis Industry Legally
JM breaks down what’s required to become a cannabis entrepreneur in today’s complicated legal landscape. She helps readers:
Understand state vs. federal laws
Navigate compliance requirements
Avoid common legal pitfalls
She doesn’t just tell you what’s legal—she helps you build a solid, scalable foundation for success.
Aligning Purpose with Profit
This isn’t about chasing hype—it’s about building a cannabis business that aligns with your why. JM encourages you to evaluate:
Your passion for the plant
Your financial goals
Your long-term vision for impact
She offers prompts to clarify your mission and build a brand that lasts.
Building Support Systems & Community
No canna-preneur makes it alone. JM emphasizes the importance of community, mentorship, and ecosystem building. She also explores expansion opportunities in overlooked sectors of the cannabis space, encouraging readers to think creatively.
Who Should Read The Successful Canna-preneur
This guide is ideal for:
Newcomers interested in joining the legal cannabis industry
Legacy operators transitioning to legal markets
Budtenders and employees ready to start their own venture
Investors, consultants, and social equity applicants
Anyone who wants practical guidance from someone who’s walked the walk
Where to Buy the Book
You can purchase The Successful Canna-preneur: The Practical Guide to Thrive in the Legal Cannabis Space by JM Balbuena on Amazon or through independent Black- and Latina-owned bookstores when available.
Final Thoughts on Becoming a Cannabis Entrepreneur
The Successful Canna-preneur is more than a business guide—it’s a roadmap written by someone who has lived every chapter. JM Balbuena not only educates, she uplifts. Her story is a call to action for anyone who wants to step into this industry with purpose and power.

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