Ravens View Genetics is a craft cannabis company co-founded by Joann Kudrewicz, located in upstate New York. The company's origins are deeply personal, stemming from Joann's desire to honor her daughter Nina's legacy and her passion for holistic health, which converged with her husband Michael's dedication to cannabis cultivation and genetic preservation. The name "Ravens View" itself came from a message received from a medium after Nina's passing, reflecting a shared connection between Michael, Nina, and their focus on old-school cannabis genetics.
Joann transitioned from a corporate healthcare career to the cannabis industry after Nina's death, leveraging her experience in building healthcare practices to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape. The move upstate allowed her and Michael to grieve and pursue their shared passion for cannabis when New York began its legalization efforts.
Ravens View Genetics has built its brand through active advocacy and community engagement. Early on, due to limited dispensary access, Joann became deeply involved in advocacy, chairing the cultivation committee for the Cannabis Association of New York (CANNY). These efforts led to the creation of the cannabis grower showcase model, allowing cultivators to sell at events in partnership with dispensaries, which significantly boosted brand awareness and fostered relationships with future dispensary owners.
The company has navigated New York's challenging cannabis market, which initially suffered from slow dispensary openings. The grower showcases were instrumental in building a sense of community among cultivators and dispensaries.