Ones to Watch: David Alport
The inaugural Greenway Ones to Watch class were nominated by their peers as those will be some of the most responsible for setting the tone of Missouri’s newest industry. From activists to consultants to operators themselves, the following industry influencers are responsible for determining not only how the industry overcomes the obstacles of 2020, but how the industry will be better for it. The same questions were asked of all; submitted answers and related information edited for grammar and clarity.
NAME: David Alport
COMPANY: SLCC LLC
OPERATING FROM: St. Louis
TITLE: CEO
BACKGROUND: David Alport received his BA in Business with a focus in finance from the University of Puget Sound. He started his cannabis career in 2009 as a commercial medical cannabis producer and cultivator in Oregon. In 2010, he founded Bridge City Collective, the idea for a nonprofit community resource, which evolved when he opened two of Portland, Oregon’s first licensed dispensaries in 2014. In 2019, he took on the role of CEO for SLCC LLC, a vertically licensed operator in the state of Missouri. David also serves as Board President of The Oregon Retailers of Cannabis Association and advisor on the Missouri Medical Cannabis Trade Association’s Cultivation Committee.
Why cannabis?
Cannabis is an opportunity to break down barriers and rethink how we live our lives. It’s an adaptogenic plant medicine that humans have used for more than 10,000 years. To think that we can use cannabis as a healthier alternative to prescription pills opens the door for a broader conversation and systemic change. I’m not opposed to western medicine, but I do think there’s a lot to be gained from a naturopathic approach to treating the physical, chemical or biological issues we all deal with as human beings.
What is your vision of the industry in Missouri?
Safe access to a hugely diverse array of flower varieties and products so that at any point in a time, a patient can walk into a dispensary and find exactly what they need. My belief is that we can achieve this together as an industry by setting aside any differences we may have outside of our roles in cannabis and forging forward together.
What opportunity/opportunities does the industry create in Missouri?
The opportunity to rewrite the playbook on cannabis in Missouri. As we establish ourselves as an industry we can help improve the overall health of the people but also the health of the communities in which we operate and serve. This is an emerging sector of the Missouri economy that will produce thousands of jobs and new found careers, if we are thoughtful about how we bring those new people into the mix, we can have a positive impact in the diverse communities throughout the state.
What is one thing you wish all Missourians knew about cannabis?
The sky won’t fall with legalized cannabis. Missourians have been consuming cannabis for a long time, legalization simply allows for a safer, structured framework for them to participate in. Statistically, we know when states have a legalized/licensed framework in place, teenage use goes down, DUIs from alcohol decrease, and overdoses from pills and heroin go down. My hope is that people are present enough to be thankful for what Missouri has accomplished so far, to enjoy the process of building this industry and enjoy the benefits of what the future holds.