Detroit, December 7, 2025
NBA Hall of Famer Chris Webber has broken ground on the Webber Wellness Compound, a $50 million cannabis facility in southwest Detroit. This expansive project will span 180,000 square feet and aims to create hundreds of jobs while supporting minority entrepreneurs in the cannabis sector. The compound will house a dispensary, consumption lounge, and a 60,000-square-foot cultivation area. Additionally, it will provide a free GED program to enhance educational opportunities for the community. Completion is anticipated by March 2022.
Detroit, Michigan – Chris Webber Breaks Ground on $50 Million Cannabis Facility
Detroit, Michigan – NBA Hall of Famer Chris Webber has initiated construction on a $50 million cannabis facility in southwest Detroit. The 180,000-square-foot compound, named the Webber Wellness Compound, is expected to create hundreds of jobs over the next several years. The project aims to provide inclusive opportunities in the burgeoning cannabis industry, particularly for minority communities. Construction is slated to be completed by March 2022.
Project Details
The Webber Wellness Compound will feature a dispensary, consumption lounge, and a 60,000-square-foot cultivation facility. The development is part of Webber’s broader initiative to support minority entrepreneurs in the cannabis sector. In addition to the facility, the project plans to offer a free GED program to assist individuals in obtaining their high school diplomas. The compound is located in southwest Detroit, an area poised to benefit from the economic opportunities generated by the project.
Background
Chris Webber, a former University of Michigan star and NBA player, has been actively involved in initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion within the cannabis industry. In early 2021, he launched a $100 million equity fund with JW Asset Management to support minority cannabis entrepreneurs. This fund is designed to provide resources and funding to individuals from underrepresented communities seeking to enter the cannabis market. The Webber Wellness Compound represents a significant investment in Detroit’s economic development and reflects Webber’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth in the industry.
Related Developments
In addition to the Webber Wellness Compound, other significant projects are underway in Detroit. The District Detroit development, a $615 million initiative, is slated to begin in 2025, with the first residential project expected to be completed by fall 2027. This development aims to revitalize the area adjacent to Little Caesars Arena, providing new housing and business opportunities. The U-M Center for Innovation, a $250 million academic center, broke ground in December 2023 and is expected to drive demand for new housing and contribute to downtown business growth. These projects collectively aim to stimulate economic growth and provide new opportunities for Detroit residents.
Conclusion
The groundbreaking of the Webber Wellness Compound marks a significant step in Detroit’s economic revitalization efforts. By investing in the cannabis industry and supporting minority entrepreneurs, Chris Webber is contributing to the city’s growth and providing new opportunities for its residents. The project’s completion in March 2022 is anticipated to have a positive impact on the local economy and community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Webber Wellness Compound?
The Webber Wellness Compound is a $50 million cannabis facility being developed by NBA Hall of Famer Chris Webber in southwest Detroit. The 180,000-square-foot compound will include a dispensary, consumption lounge, and a 60,000-square-foot cultivation facility. Construction is expected to be completed by March 2022.
How many jobs will the Webber Wellness Compound create?
The project is expected to create hundreds of jobs over the next several years, providing employment opportunities for Detroit residents.
What is the purpose of the free GED program associated with the compound?
The free GED program aims to assist individuals in obtaining their high school diplomas, thereby enhancing their employment prospects and contributing to the community’s overall development.
What other significant projects are underway in Detroit?
Other notable projects include the District Detroit development, a $615 million initiative slated to begin in 2025, and the U-M Center for Innovation, a $250 million academic center that broke ground in December 2023. These projects aim to revitalize the area adjacent to Little Caesars Arena and stimulate economic growth in the city.
Key Features of the Webber Wellness Compound
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Southwest Detroit |
| Investment | $50 million |
| Size | 180,000 square feet |
| Components | Dispensary, consumption lounge, 60,000-square-foot cultivation facility |
| Job Creation | Hundreds of jobs over the next several years |
| Completion Date | March 2022 |
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