As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, the story of The Bettering Company—a rising star in the edibles market—offers a glimpse into how one brand is navigating the exciting, yet challenging landscape of the cannabis sector. With roots in Chicago and a fresh launch in New York, The Bettering Company embodies the spirit of innovation and adaptation required to thrive in today’s competitive market.

Founded on the principles of wellness and high-quality craftsmanship, The Bettering Company is making waves with its premium cannabis edibles. The company’s journey from its inception to its recent expansion into New York City is a testament to the power of vision and perseverance.

The Birth of The Bettering Company

The story of The Bettering Company began with a serendipitous meeting and a chance encounter with high-quality cannabis-infused chocolates. As co-founder Mark Cozzi recounts, the catalyst for the brand’s creation was a dinner conversation with Dr. Neil Iyengar, an oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering. During their discussion, Dr. Agar suggested the benefits of replacing alcohol with cannabis, which planted the seed for a new venture.

Shortly thereafter, Cozzi's husband, James, introduced him to a master chocolatier’s cannabis-infused creations. The combination of these events sparked an idea: to create exceptional cannabis edibles that prioritize quality and wellness.

The couple’s background as food enthusiasts and their commitment to clean, minimal ingredients guided their approach. They wanted to craft edibles that not only tasted great but were also beneficial to consumers' health. Their mission was clear: to produce some of the finest edibles in the market, blending culinary excellence with the benefits of cannabis.

Expanding Horizons: From Chicago to New York

The Bettering Company’s journey began in Illinois, where it first launched six varieties of gummies. The success in Illinois laid the groundwork for the company’s bold move into New York. Cozzi had been closely monitoring the New York market, recognizing its potential since the state’s legalization of cannabis. The time seemed ripe for expansion.

In early 2024, The Bettering Company partnered with a co-manufacturer in Rochester, New York, to produce and package their products. This strategic move allowed them to enter the New York market with a solid foundation. Their products began shipping to dispensaries just before the Fourth of July, and they aim to establish a presence in approximately 20 dispensaries by the end of August. The company’s approach is deliberate, focusing on building strong relationships with dispensaries and understanding consumer preferences.

Craftsmanship and Quality

One of The Bettering Company’s standout features is its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Their products are made with real fruits, herbs, and spices, avoiding processed chemicals and excessive sugars. This attention to detail is not just a preference but a core value of the brand.

Cozzi and his team prioritize using clean, minimal ingredients, a principle rooted in their personal values and the guidance of Dr. Agar. The company’s edibles are crafted to be both delicious and beneficial, meeting high standards for health and wellness.

The Bettering Company’s chocolates, developed in collaboration with a master chocolatier, are particularly noteworthy. These edibles are crafted to perfection, with no changes planned to their core recipes, although new flavors may be introduced in the future. The company believes in refining their products continually to ensure the best possible experience for their consumers.

The cannabis markets in Illinois and New York present different challenges and opportunities. Illinois is dominated by a few large, well-capitalized companies, which can make it difficult for independent brands like Bettering Company to gain traction. In contrast, New York’s market is more open and diverse, with many independent dispensaries eager to explore new products.

Cozzi notes that New York’s market is more dynamic, with frequent new store openings and a more receptive audience for innovative products. The company’s pricing strategy in New York reflects lessons learned from their Illinois experience, aiming to strike the right balance between value and premium quality.

Embracing Community and Diversity

As an LGBTQIA+ founded company, The Bettering Company places a strong emphasis on supporting the community. Their commitment is reflected in initiatives like the Pride Pack, a rainbow-themed variety pack launched in June. A portion of the proceeds from this pack is donated to career-focused charitable organizations, including Howard Brown Health and Broadway Youth Center in Illinois, with a similar partnership planned for New York.

The company’s dedication to community support extends beyond Pride Month, with ongoing contributions to organizations that champion LGBTQIA+ causes. This approach aligns with Bettering Company’s broader mission to foster inclusivity and support within the cannabis industry.

Capital and Growth

the Bettering Company’s success in raising capital, even before generating significant revenue, speaks to its strong vision and leadership. The company has conducted several successful capital raises over the past two and a half years, supported by the track record of co-founder Cozzi, who previously co-founded a successful energy company.

The company’s ability to attract investors is attributed to its clear vision, commitment to quality, and the strategic guidance of industry veterans. Peter Rahal, former CEO of RXBAR and a seed investor, has played a crucial role in refining the company’s packaging and strategy. His expertise in packaging design has been instrumental in shaping Bettering Company’s visual identity.

Looking Ahead

As Bettering Company continues to expand its presence in New York and beyond, its focus remains on building strong consumer connections and delivering exceptional products. The company plans to engage directly with consumers and budtenders through training sessions and pop-up events, learning from feedback to refine their offerings further.

Cozzi excitement about the New York launch is palpable, reflecting the company’s enthusiasm for its new market. From having a dispensary in Hell’s Kitchen to engaging with the community, Bettering Company is poised to make a significant impact.

In conclusion, Bettering Company’s journey from Chicago to New York exemplifies the spirit of innovation and adaptability that defines the modern cannabis industry. With a commitment to quality, community, and strategic growth, the company is well-positioned to thrive in the evolving landscape of cannabis edibles.

For more information on Bettering Company’s products and initiatives, visit their website, instagram or find them at select dispensaries in New York and Illinois.

This article provides an overview of Bettering Company’s growth and values, highlighting their commitment to quality, community, and strategic expansion.