From corporate corridors to pioneering one of New Jersey’s early cannabis consulting ventures, Nick Scalera’s journey is a powerful reminder that reinvention is always possible. With decades of experience in marketing, education, and entrepreneurship, Nick’s story resonates deeply with those navigating change, building from resilience, and creating impact through purpose-driven work.
Q: Nick, take us back to the beginning—what inspired your entrepreneurial journey?
My journey into entrepreneurship began after an unexpected setback. After many years in the corporate world, the company I was working for shut down following the dot-com crash shortly after 9/11. That moment pushed me to start my own consulting business in 2001. Since then, I’ve balanced consulting with teaching college courses in marketing and even remedial mathematics. My foundation has always been problem-solving, strategy, and helping businesses grow.
Q: How did you find your way into the cannabis consulting industry?
It happened purely by chance. I heard a political candidate speak about expanding New Jersey’s medical cannabis program and introducing adult-use legalization. That sparked my interest. After extensive research, I realized this was a growing industry with immense potential. When legalization passed, I positioned my consulting business to help entrepreneurs navigate licensing, compliance, and funding. That’s how NJ Cannabis Consulting was born.
Q: What services does your company focus on today?
We primarily help clients develop solid business plans, pro formas, and pitch decks—essentially helping them get funded or licensed. Over time, we also built a referral network for cannabis-related services and launched a free Cannabis Learning Center where industry experts share education across more than 70 different topics.
Q: Are you a solopreneur or do you work with a team?
Initially, it was just me. Then, an old friend who had recently retired joined me as a partner. Since then, we’ve expanded with contract-based team members handling areas like marketing, referrals, website management, and specialized services. It’s very much a collaborative effort now.
Q: What has been your proudest milestone so far?
Starting NJ Cannabis Consulting has been my biggest milestone. It required deep research, regulatory understanding, and resilience. Over time, we’ve helped clients recover from failed applications and succeed through proper planning. Seeing businesses come to life because of our guidance is incredibly rewarding.
Q: You’ve actively supported women through your career. What are your thoughts on women in leadership?
I’ve worked with and for many women throughout my career—even in highly technical environments where women were underrepresented. I’ve also supported women in promotions and skill-building. One of the most meaningful initiatives I’ve been involved with is an organization called Women of the Dream, which empowers young Black women through scholarships, mentorship, and education. The impact they create is extraordinary.
Q: What advice would you give to future women leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs?
Stay strong. Stay professional. Education and experience are critical. Internships are a powerful bridge between academics and real-world business. Experience truly differentiates you today—especially in a highly competitive job market. Hands-on learning changes everything.
Q: What does success mean to you—professionally and personally?
Success, to me, is satisfaction. It’s about doing work that challenges you, solving meaningful problems, and feeling fulfilled. I thrive on building things that work—and when they don’t, understanding why and fixing them. That problem-solving journey is what keeps me energized.
“True success comes from solving problems that matter and finding satisfaction in the process.”
Connect with Nick Scalera:
- Website: https://njcannabisconsulting.com
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