Automate to Innovate

Washington’s Savvy Business Policies Facilitate a Robust Tech Ecosystem

Technology has been big business in Washington state for decades. Its tech-forward atmosphere is ushering in a wave of innovation from cannabis companies. Cultivators, retailers, and manufacturers are finding new ways to automate processes and streamline production. Washington makes an attractive headquarters for businesses thanks to its strong economy, highly educated workforce, low cost of living, and zero state income tax.

STM Canna is a pre-roll automation company based in Spokane that’s been developing technology solutions for cannabis companies since 2017. STM’s Marketing Coordinator Chanse Watson believes the company’s location is pivotal to its ability to set itself apart in the marketplace. “Washington is very tech savvy and open to technology companies and friendly to the cannabis industry,” Watson noted. As a veteran-owned company specializing in American-made products, a spirit of innovation and collaboration is essential to its processes. Washington was named America’s third most innovative state in 2022 according to WalletHub.

One sector ripe for innovation is pre-roll production. Pre-rolls are the third-largest product category in America according to cannabis data company Headset. In 2023, 13.4% of sales in Washington are pre-rolls, according to Headset. As demand for pre-rolls grows, retailers and manufacturers are seeking ways to produce more volume with consistent quality and low overhead. For many, even startups, this can be an opportunity to experiment with automation technology.

Watson was quick to note that STM offers products for any size producer, from startup to commercial. Its latest piece of tech, the Cone Lander, automatically fills pre-roll trays with cones, streamlining the often tedious job of hand-filling pre-roll machines with tubes or cones. It’s an ideal product for commercial operators. Conversely, STM’s Jumpstarter package makes products accessible even in the startup phase. It bundles several of the company’s best-selling items into one scalable package so retailers can start slow and work their way up to a more complete automation solution. “It’s a great way to take that first step into automation. If you already have our systems, getting a Jumpstarter package is just another way to increase production even further,” Watson said.

Cannabis technology companies make up a complex ecosystem of economic support for the state. According to the Washington CannaBusiness Association, the regulated marketplace directly employs 11,330 workers and supports 18,360 jobs. Companies are hiring all the time and even as the national economy is suffering, regulated cannabis has been a relatively stable sector.

For those interested in a career in cannabis technology, Western Washington University is offering several certification programs in topics ranging from compliance and risk management to cannabis agriculture and horticulture. In all, Washington is providing myriad resources to help tech entrepreneurs succeed in the industry. ❖