Cannabis Policy - Zander Abrams - The Matt Balaker Podcast

Zander Abrams is the Founder of the Cannabis Policy Forum where he analyzes cannabis politics, policy and regulation. He knows a great deal about the cannabis industry and the political shenanigans that hold it back. Hear his story.

Zander is focused on macro trends affecting the cannabis industry and draws on his experience in political campaigns, lobby organizations, and his background as an attorney. Through his company, CPF Ventures, Zander works with cannabis operators, ancillary technology companies, and investors to build expansion strategies, manage public affairs, and to facilitate foreign entry into the U.S. market. Zander is active in private equity and debt markets, often interfacing to navigate challenging regulatory environments.

Prior to founding CPF in 2019, Zander served for 5 years as an Area Director for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), where he oversaw a number of state operations in the Midwest. While at AIPAC, Zander led one of the organizations largest fundraising campaigns, effected political mobilizations across 35 Congressional Districts and 8 Senators, and delivered 20 keynote speeches a year. Before joining AIPAC’s professional staff, Zander was the Political Director and spokesman for a governor’s campaign in Minnesota. Zander began his legal career working with tech trade associations to achieve state funding for angel stage investments and has experience in criminal law, real estate transactions, and employment litigation. In college, Zander interned at the Minnesota House of Representatives, focusing on tax and fiscal policy.

Zander received his J.D. from the University of Iowa: College of Law, and graduated with honors from the University of Minnesota. He is based in Los Angeles, CA.