From Farm Roots to Cannabis Blossoms: Leah Kollross’ Journey with Sprout Cannabis

In this week’s edition of the Founders Spotlight, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Leah Kollross, the inspiring founder of Sprout Cannabis. Leah’s path from a small farming community to launching a cannabis brand in Minnesota is a story of passion, purpose, and perseverance. Here’s how she turned her love for nature into a pioneering venture in the cannabis industry.

From Nature Enthusiast to Cannabis Pioneer

Leah’s journey into the cannabis industry wasn’t something she initially envisioned. Raised in a small farming town, Leah had a deep connection to nature but was eager to escape the confines of rural life. This led her to the Aveda Institute in Minneapolis, where she pursued her passion for skincare and makeup. Aveda’s plant-based approach to beauty resonated with Leah’s upbringing and further deepened her appreciation for the power of plants.

As Minnesota moved toward cannabis legalization, Leah found herself increasingly drawn to the industry. Her background in plants and wellness, combined with a career that spanned various industries, including human resources and payroll, laid the groundwork for what would become Sprout Cannabis.

“When the state was moving toward legalization, I saw a unique opportunity,” Leah shared. “I’m passionate about people, and I wanted to create a company that not only provided quality cannabis products but also fostered a community where people felt accepted and valued.

Creating Community and Changing Perceptions

One of Leah’s primary missions with Sprout Cannabis is to normalize cannabis use and dismantle the lingering stigmas associated with it. Leah spoke candidly about her own journey from being a staunch opponent of cannabis to becoming an advocate for its many benefits.

“I grew up in the D.A.R.E. generation, where cannabis was demonized,” Leah explained. “But as I got older and more educated, I realized the plant’s incredible potential. Now, I’m committed to changing perceptions, not just through conversations with friends and family but by actively engaging with the community.”

Sprout is heavily involved in social impact initiatives, working closely with organizations like Twin Cities Pride and People Serving People. Notably, they’ve partnered with the Last Prisoner Project, an organization dedicated to freeing individuals incarcerated for non-violent cannabis offenses

“It’s not lost on me that as a white suburban woman, I have the privilege of entering this industry while many are still serving time for cannabis-related charges,” Leah acknowledged. “That’s why we’re committed to supporting the Last Prisoner Project through continuous campaigns and donations.”

Innovating in the Cannabis Beverage Space

Leah is particularly excited about Sprout’s upcoming entry into the cannabis beverage market, an area where Minnesota has already seen considerable innovation. After attending various beverage festivals, Leah noticed a trend toward similar flavor profiles and set out to create something truly unique.

“There are so many wonderful beverages out there, but I wanted to bring something different to the table,” Leah teased. “Our beverage will be a celebration of the new freedoms we have in Minnesota to enjoy cannabis.”

While she kept specifics under wraps, it’s clear that Leah’s passion for innovation is driving Sprout’s product development. The anticipation surrounding these beverages is just another testament to her commitment to pushing the industry forward.

A Personal Connection to the Cause

Leah’s dedication to the cannabis industry is also deeply personal. Last year, she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a condition that introduced her to the therapeutic benefits of cannabis in a whole new way.

“After my diagnosis, I experienced a lot of pain and discomfort,” Leah recounted. “Cannabis, particularly high-CBD products, became a crucial part of my pain management and relaxation routine. It was a game-changer for my recovery.”

This experience has only strengthened Leah’s resolve to educate others about the medicinal benefits of cannabis. As Sprout grows, Leah plans to focus heavily on consumer education, ensuring that people understand how cannabis can be a valuable tool for health and wellness.

How You Can Support Sprout Cannabis

As Sprout Cannabis prepares to launch its new products and expand its reach, Leah invites supporters to get involved through their crowdfunding campaign. Partnering with Silicon Prairie, Sprout has set up a platform where individuals can invest in the future of cannabis in Minnesota.

To learn more about how you can support Sprout and stay updated on their latest developments, visit Sprout Cannabis Crowdfunding Portal. Additionally, be sure to follow Sprout on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook to keep up with their journey and be among the first to try their innovative cannabis products.

Leah Kollross’ story is a testament to the power of passion and the impact one person can have on an emerging industry. As Sprout continues to grow, there’s no doubt that Leah will remain at the forefront, leading the charge to normalize cannabis and build a stronger, more inclusive community in Minnesota.