New $75 Million Investment For Cannabis Startup Caliva Gains Support From Yahoo CEO And Football Legend Joe Montana

Caliva is a local cannabis startup in San Jose that is looking to get their brand off the ground, and they’ve managed to host a funding round that had many interesting contributors. Between Yahoo CEO Carol Bartz, football superstar Joe Montana, and others, the new company brought in a whopping $75 million. Despite the many different opinions on cannabis, it is clear that the ones in favor of its use are a varied bunch.

The company’s goal is to expand the products that it presently holds, which are referred to as a “war chest.” They’ll also use the funding in their work to market to cannabis users in California, using a combination of sales to distributors, companies that sell directly to customers, and brick and mortar stores. Even though the market didn’t have the momentum that they would’ve desired with the newly implemented state regulations, Caliva managed to thrive with a 350% increase in revenue. They also increased their staff to 440 members.

Montana, who is already a general partner with Liquid 2 Ventures, has some experience in cannabis investing already, after investing in a 2017 seed round for Herb. Considering the substantial benefits for athletes in cannabis, like the reduction in pain and the soothing of inflamed muscles, it is common for former players to take part in the cannabis business, especially with CBD.

When speaking on his interest in this industry, Montana commented,

“As an investor and supporter, it is my opinion that Caliva’s strong management team will successfully develop and bring to market quality health and wellness products that can provide relief to many people and can make a serious impact on opioid use or addiction.”

Right now, Caliva already has a retail location, but they have more of a standing than just offering their remedies alone. Along with many of the common brands in the marketplace, Caliva sells their products too. They even have a distribution center nearby.

Bartz, who has expressed her intention to join the board for Caliva, said, “I know great opportunities when I see them.”