The National Equity Trade Certification and Network (NETCN) was founded in 2019 with a clear purpose: to create real economic opportunity for people and communities harmed by the War on Drugs.
Based in Oakland, California, and operating nationwide, the organization works at the intersection of policy, legacy, and commerce by connecting equity-driven cannabis businesses with the resources and networks they need to succeed.
Led by co-founders Ramon Garcia and Nina Parks, NETCN focuses on long-term ecosystem building rather than short-term wins, supporting both the cultural foundation and the economic future of the cannabis industry.
A Mission Grounded in Repair
From the beginning, NETCN has focused on addressing the structural barriers that have historically excluded legacy operators and equity licensees from sustainable participation in the cannabis market.
“The mission of the National Equity Trade Network is to build bridges and pathways to connect businesses and communities to develop an ecosystem that increases the financial success of individuals and groups harmed by America’s ‘Failed War on Drugs.’
We envision landscapes that support the innovation that small businesses contribute to culture and community economic health.”
— Ramon Garcia, Cultural Protagonist & Co-Founder
That mission shapes every initiative the network undertakes, from advocacy and technical assistance to brand partnerships and consumer-facing activations.
The Brand Launch and the “Aha” Moment
The idea for NETCN became clear after the team helped author and support historic social equity language in Oakland, San Francisco, and across California. Though policy progress mattered, it quickly became evident that access alone was not enough.
Entrepreneurs from impacted communities needed more than licenses; they needed business infrastructure, technical support, and a trusted network of aligned partners to survive in the heavily regulated, capital-intensive cannabis industry.
With more than 80 years of multigenerational experience tied to the plant, its culture, and its consumers, the founders understood the responsibility to create space for legacy operators and equity entrepreneurs to thrive on their own terms.
A Small Team with a Long View
NETCN operates with a focused, intentional team driven by lived experience and common purpose. Rather than scaling indiscriminately, the organization champions depth by supporting its own initiatives while helping other small businesses build durable, community-centered economic systems.
This approach allows the network to remain grounded while opening doors for others to succeed alongside it.
Standout Brands in the Network
Through its work, NETCN supports a growing portfolio of equity-owned and legacy brands, each rooted in consistency, quality, and cultural authenticity.
Oakland Extracts
An African American– and Asian-owned legacy concentrate and vape producer with decades of experience. Known for deep product knowledge and reliable execution, Oakland Extracts delivers consistent quality with every release.
Queen Mary
An award-winning, health-based edible brand featuring a complete daily wellness regimen. From the vitamin D– and THCV-infused Boost tincture to B12-enhanced Enchanted gummies and Moonstruck gummies formulated with CBN and lavender, Queen Mary designs products with intention and balance.
Cali Love
A Latino-owned Social Equity legacy brand known for its Take A Break PreRoll pack—six prerolls in three sizes designed to fit any moment. With deep industry roots, Cali Love delivers premium legacy flower and prerolls that honor tradition while elevating the experience.
Clarified Confections
A Latina-owned legacy brand focused on whole-plant medicine. From long-standing ghee butter infusions to whole-plant capsules and infused family-recipe cookies, Clarified Confections centers consistency, dosage integrity, and whole-plant efficacy.
Moments That Hit Home
NETCN has helped lead some of the industry’s most meaningful firsts, creating direct connections between consumers and legacy culture.
These include the first-ever cannabis sales and consumption at Grass Lands during Outside Lands, as well as historic activations at the California State Fair in 2024 and 2025.
Year after year, attendees return specifically to experience the Legacy Market and support brands within the Equity Trade Network family.
What Inspires the Team—and What’s Ahead
Today, inspiration comes from the community itself and the growing network of aligned brands and businesses. NETCN continues focusing on creating meaningful, impactful products and opportunities that support both physical healing and financial sustainability.
While details are confidential, the team hints at upcoming brand and product launches, including the return of a well-known savory edible that longtime consumers will recognize.
The work continues, guided by legacy, community, and a pledge to build an industry where equity is foundational—not optional.
