Ulysses Youngblood likes being an unassuming man, who people would never guess runs his own cannabis business or teaches about entrepreneurship at Clark University.
In August, he opened Worcester dispensary Major Bloom after raising $1 million in investments, hosting – among others – Boston Celtics former star Paul Pierce. Major Bloom was the second economic empowerment applicant and the first Black-owned cannabis business to open in the city. In April, Major Bloom became the first Worcester dispensary to offer delivery, being one of nine businesses in the entire state to further dynamize the burgeoning $3-billion marijuana industry. Youngblood sees Major Bloom as a stabilizing force in the neighborhood just southeast of the $160-million Polar Park baseball stadium and employs 20 local people at the business, at a pay rate above the industry average, he said.
In hiring contractors, Youngblood emphasizes local businesses, particularly those owned by people of color. He works with businesses in the neighborhood to help create further patronage, including Westerman Store & Restaurant Equipment, Joseph’s Lock & Safe Co., handmade goods maker Alan James Co., hookah bar Electric Haze, and footwear provider Scoop Drip.
What sets the Central Mass. business community apart from the rest of the world? Its proximity to influence and unique geographic location. Everything we need is a walk, bike ride, or quick car ride away.
Unique view on life: I’ve had learning disabilities since I was 9 years old, including ADHD, selective hearing, and dyslexia. All this is an advantage now because I hear and learn differently. I still struggle with reading and writing, but I love listening to people’s stories because I can see images and show empathy for their point of view. I express myself through creative business content.
