ABOUT NC3
Meet the team at NC3 Chamber and learn more about the organization's mission to support industry business growth across North Carolina.
North Carolina Cannabis By The Numbers
3 Pillars of NC3 Chamber's Mission
1
Workforce Development
We support a workforce ready for North Carolina’s cannabis economy by expanding job training, skill development and career pathways. By connecting individuals with opportunities, we help strengthen communities and support long-term industry growth.
2
We support the growth of North Carolina’s cannabis industry by fostering a strong, stable business environment. By engaging with stakeholders, we help create the conditions for businesses to grow responsibly and contribute to a sustainable state economy.
3
We support a more informed and inclusive cannabis industry in North Carolina by advancing education and reducing stigma. By engaging communities and stakeholders, we help build understanding and create a strong foundation for responsible, sustainable growth.
Why Join NC3 Chamber
NC3 Chamber connects the people building North Carolina’s cannabis and hemp industry. From operators and entrepreneurs to researchers and service providers, membership keeps you informed, connected, and positioned as the market evolves.
Members build relationships across the state, stay informed on developments impacting their business, and participate in curated events and discussions designed to bring the right people together. NC3 also connects industry with universities, researchers, and key stakeholders while helping members increase visibility and play a role in what comes next.
Choose your Membership Level
NC3 Chamber offers a variety of membership levels for individuals, businesses and organizations to network, develop business and establish a strong foundation for our industry.
Professional Membership
425$Designed for individuals working in or supporting the cannabis and hemp industry.Valid for 12 months- Access to general chamber events
- Member-only perks (discounts, webinars, job board)
- Inclusion in the NC3 Member Directory
- Monthly newsletter and industry updates
- Invitation to join committees and volunteer opportunities
Business Membership
1,250$Designed for companies looking to increase visibility and connect with the broader cannabis and hemp ecosystem.Valid for 12 months- Includes up to 2 members
- Business listing with logo and link
- Recognition at 1 chamber event per year
- Access to industry roundtables and working groups
- Promotional spotlight in the NC3 newsletter (1x/year)
- Eligibility for discounted vendor/sponsorship opportunities
Executive Membership
2,500$Executive Membership is designed for organizations that want a leadership presence within the NC3 Chamber network.Valid for 12 months- Includes up to 4 members
- Premium listing in the online directory
- Logo placement on select event signage and materials
- Priority consideration for speaking at chamber events
- VIP invitations to executive roundtables and policy briefing
- Up to 4 complimentary tickets to select NC3-hosted events
THE EXECUTIVE TEAM
Let's Connect!
Email me at: kelly@nc3chamber.org
Kelly Riddle
Founder, Chairperson of the Board
Kelly Riddle is an award-winning brand marketing executive with 15+ years in content, events, and business strategy. She was awarded “Most Extreme Results in Social Media” by Trade Show Executive Magazine and was a finalist for “Best Marketing” by Trade Show News Network for her work as Director of Marketing for MJBizDaily and MJBizCon.
A graduate of the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University, she has served in leadership roles at Maxim Magazine, Gannett, Tanger Outlets, and Kindermusik International. Kelly owns and operates GoPlay Agency and The CannaJo!nt, based in North Carolina, and has been actively involved in local organizations including the Winston-Salem Jaycees, Oak Ridge Youth Association, and the Oak Ridge Parks & Recreation Advisory Board. Kelly specializes in innovative brand collaborations and activations, partnering with leading organizations and high-profile figures worldwide.
She is the founder of NC3 Chamber and leads its ongoing efforts to connect and support North Carolina’s cannabis and hemp industry.
WH Farms Co.
Q. Nicole Vanderhorst
Founding Member
Q. Nicole Vanderhorst is the CEO & Founder of WH Farms Co., a North Carolina industrial hemp cultivator and vertically integrated GMP & ISO certified botanical manufacturing company based in Charlotte. Under Nicole's leadership, WH Farms has developed over 24 SKUS of wellness products whose aim is to ease ailments stemming from common chronic wellness challenges such as hypertension, diabetes, insomnia, pain relief and behavioral health such as anxiety.
Nicole studied at the University of Maryland, the University of Nice and Duke University and has been recognized as a recipient of Top 40 Under 40, Winner of NC Idea SEED Award, Black Ambition Prize Finalist and a member of Launch CLT and Winston Starts. Nicole also serves at local missions and charities aimed at assisting citizens re-entering society and homeless mothers.
Nicole is a founding contributor to NC3 Chamber and continues to support its mission as she leads the growth of WH Farms Co.