Illinois has consistently set records as it establishes its cannabis industry. First, by enacting reform with a governor’s signature rather than voter-nominated initiatives, and now with research. The Cannabis Research Institute (CRI) has officially formed in the state. The institute was granted $7M, thanks to cannabis taxes, in July. The funds will be awarded over three years.
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CRI is led by director and cannabis geneticist Reggie Guadino and supported by the University of Illinois. Last week, Gov. Pritzker and associates gathered to lead an interactive panel for key stakeholders two years after the announcement of its formation.
“We are launching a research institute – funded by the legal sale of that same plant – that will accelerate the transformation of that old, unfair, unjust system into a vehicle for community revitalization,” Governor JB Pritzker said in a press release.
The Illinois Cannabis Research Institute is poised to analyze and research the scientific and socio-economic impacts of cannabis to inform the public. The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) awarded the funds. The project is supported by the state of Illinois, along with the city of Chicago.
“The Cannabis Research Institute will use innovative research and data collection to deepen our understanding of cannabis and help shape the future of the industry, better inform the public, and develop policies for consumer protection, economic and community development, and equity,” the governor described in the release.
How CRI aims to help Illinois weed
Director Guadino is no stranger to cannabis science or agriculture. He stepped into the space in 2014 with cutting-edge lab Steep Hill and Front Range Biosciences after working in ag-sciences and patent law.
In February 2024, Guadino became the director of CRI, which will provide unbiased data and research to benefit future generations. Uncovered information is set to inform policy makers and bills in the state as well as public safety measures. The institute will look into crop management, medical cannabis applications, and the impact of social equity efforts.
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The institute is temporarily in a former COVID-19 testing clinic on Chicago’s west side until another space is set up. They will begin hosting community-focused events in the following months to hear the people’s preferred research priorities. While there are many for-pay independent cannabis testing labs, few states have established unbiased research hubs for their weed industries. In this way, Illinois is setting another precedent meant to serve its constituents.
“CRI will contribute to the emerging body of knowledge that will enable policymakers to develop data-informed, equitable strategies related to Illinois’ cannabis policies in the years to come,” Dulce M. Quintero, IDHS Secretary Designate, concluded in the release.
