Business Growth

9 Things to Keep in Mind While Navigating Cannabis Advertising

How to use cannabis advertising is a skill that will grow your business, however, if done wrong, the negative consequences can be serious.

9 Things to Keep in Mind While Navigating Cannabis Advertising
Paul de Bruin
Founder at Maaly
7 min read
February 21, 2025

Cannabis advertising is a tricky subject. With the legalization of marijuana in numerous states, and perhaps U.S. federal legalization soon, the cannabis industry is growing, and organizations are eager to promote their products.

However, strict regulations and restrictions make it challenging to navigate the world of cannabis advertising.

Here are the things to keep in mind when promoting your cannabis business online.

Cannabis advertising is a tricky subject. With the legalization of marijuana in numerous states, and perhaps U.S. federal legalization soon, the cannabis industry is growing, and organizations are eager to promote their products.

However, strict regulations and restrictions make it challenging to navigate the world of cannabis advertising.

Here are the things to keep in mind when promoting your cannabis business online.

1. Know the Law

Before you begin your cannabis advertisements, you must familiarize yourself with the current laws and regulations governing cannabis advertising in your state. Each state has its rules, and failure to comply with them can result in hefty fines or even the loss of your license. 

2. Be Creative, But Stay Compliant

Cannabis advertising is heavily restricted, so getting creative with your marketing strategies is essential. However, it's crucial to avoid crossing the line into non-compliance.

For example, ads cannot make false or misleading claims about the medicinal benefits of cannabis. In addition, cannabis ads cannot target minors or be placed on any platform where most of the audience is children.

3. Highlight CBD Rather Than Traditional Cannabis

If you want to promote your cannabis business while staying compliant, it's better to focus on CBD products rather than traditional cannabis.

CBD is legal in 47 states, and its health benefits are well-documented. Without breaking the law, you can market CBD products as a potential natural remedy for various ailments, such as anxiety, pain, and insomnia.

The key word is “potential”! Never make any medical claims when advertising cannabis or CBD.

4. Consider Your Target Audience

It's essential to consider your target audience when promoting your cannabis advertisements.

If your target audience is older adults new to cannabis, your advertising strategy will differ from that of a company targeting young adults who are experienced, cannabis users.

Ensure your advertising messages are tailored to your target audience and resonate with them.

5. Use Creative Messaging

With so many restrictions on cannabis advertising, it’s essential to get creative with your messaging.

Instead of focusing solely on the product, try highlighting the lifestyle or experience that your cannabis brand represents. This can help to create a more emotional connection with your audience and set your brand apart from competitors.

6. Be Mindful of Social Media

Social media is a valuable tool for promoting your cannabis business, but it's essential to be mindful of the regulations.

Many social media platforms have strict rules regarding cannabis and CBD advertising, and failure to comply can result in account suspension or closure.

For example, Instagram has a policy against promoting the sale of cannabis, and Facebook prohibits the promotion of cannabis and related paraphernalia.

7. Focus on Education

One effective way to promote your cannabis business is to focus on education. Many people are still unfamiliar with the benefits of cannabis and how it can be used.

By providing educational content, you can help to demystify cannabis and build trust with your audience. Consider creating a blog, podcast, or video series with information about cannabis and its benefits.

8. Partner with Influencers

Partnering with influencers can be a practical approach to reaching a wider audience with your cannabis advertisements.

Influencers can help to promote your business and products to their followers, who may be interested in cannabis but not yet familiar with your brand.

However, choosing influencers who align with your brand values and comply with advertising regulations is essential.

9. Don't Oversell

Finally, it's essential not to oversell your cannabis products. Cannabis advertising is still a sensitive subject; many are wary of being sold something they don't need.

Instead, focus on the benefits of your products and how they can improve your customers' lives. Be honest and transparent about your products, and don't make false or misleading claims.

Conclusion

Cannabis advertising is a challenging subject, but with rigorous planning and attention to detail, you can promote your cannabis business successfully.

By following these cannabis advertisement tips, you can navigate the world of cannabis advertising while staying compliant with the regulations and building trust with your audience.

Maaly is an innovative digital marketing agency partnering with cannabis and CBD brands to help them grow predictable recurring revenue through effective online strategies.

With a focus on SEO, content marketing, email marketing, and data analysis, we offer a comprehensive range of digital services tailored to each client's unique needs.

Contact us today to learn how they can help you with cannabis advertisements to achieve your growth and revenue goals.

Your Cannabis Growth Partner

Grow predictable recurring revenue using SEO, Content Marketing, Email Marketing, Data Analysis & Conversion Rate Optimization.
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