Upling LLC revolutionizes cannabis access in Washington, D.C., and Maryland, offering a swift online platform for legal cannabis purchases from local dispensaries. Its user-friendly app ensures that whether for medical or recreational purposes, cannabis delivery is just a few taps away. Adhering strictly to state and federal laws, Upling guarantees a secure, compliant service, with recreational options available in D.C., and medical cannabis accessible around the clock in Maryland.
Founded by Colin Fraser, a man whose journey is as remarkable as the business he created, Upling is not just a company; it’s proof of resilience, a crusade for social equity, and a bridge to a better future.
Rising From Adversity
“In 2008, I was shot eight times. I was on the illegal side of the drug market; I was incarcerated and wrongfully accused of drug crimes,” Colin reflects. His voice, imbued with a mix of humility and determination, tells the story of a man who, despite being shot, imprisoned, and wrestling with life’s relentless trials, found a way to turn his pain into purpose.
After his incarceration, he dedicated eight years to prison ministry, driven by a desire to help those incarcerated. This experience shaped his outlook on helping others. His journey led to creating Upling when his mother, battling stage four cancer, found relief in cannabis as an alternative medication. Utilizing his computer engineering and programming background, Colin secured the only cannabis delivery license in Maryland, developed the app with a team, and established the business. “We’re the first black-owned cannabis delivery app in the United States and Jamaica,” Colin proudly states.
Colin’s transformation was not just internal. He became an advocate for those like him, driven by a deep understanding of the systemic barriers faced by returning citizens. “It’s about giving back and lifting others,” he emphasizes. This ethos became the bedrock of Upling, a company founded not just for profit but also to enact social change.
More Than Just a Business
Upling is a symbol of hope and empowerment. “Upling is more than an app; it’s a movement,” declares Colin. His vision extended beyond entrepreneurship to touch the lives of those often left behind by society.
Central to Upling’s mission is the commitment to employ returning citizens, offering them a second chance and a dignified pathway to reintegrate into society. “We’re not just offering jobs; we’re offering a new beginning. I take my time and resources, build them, and put them into a job where they can support themselves and their families,” he explains. This commitment reflects Colin’s deep understanding of the challenges faced by those returning from incarceration and a desire to contribute to a more equitable society, and embodies Upling’s power as a business to drive positive social change.
Advocating for Change
Colin’s vision with Upling extends beyond entrepreneurship into the realm of advocacy. “Our goal is to be at the forefront of fair cannabis policies,” he asserts passionately. He understands the historical and ongoing challenges surrounding cannabis legislation and its impact on communities, particularly those of color.
Colin and Upling’s efforts emphasize the importance of reforming legislation and societal perceptions around cannabis, particularly in addressing the disparities and impacts on communities of color. “Governor of Maryland, Wes Moore, has been instrumental in sitting down with us, engaging in conversations about black and brown entrepreneurship in the cannabis space, ensuring equality in the market space,” Colin adds.
Through Upling, Colin spearheads efforts to influence change in the cannabis industry and broader societal norms. This dedication to advocacy highlights Upling’s role in the community, serving as a catalyst for positive change and setting a precedent for corporate responsibility and social activism.
Empowering Through Technology
Innovation at Upling transcends its business model, venturing into social empowerment through technology. Colin’s ambitious plan to train former inmates in coding is a testament to his vision of harnessing technology for social good. “It’s fantastic how you can create something just by coding and making it do what you want – and empowering and connecting people,” Colin says.
This effort is part of a broader vision to expand Upling’s influence in the cannabis delivery sector, aspiring to reach the recognition levels of major delivery services like DoorDash, Instacart, and Uber Eats. This goal seeks to grow Upling and invest in the skills and futures of those re-entering society. Through these efforts, Upling is poised not only to revolutionize cannabis delivery but also to create meaningful, lasting change in the lives of individuals and the community.
Colin and Upling’s journey culminates not just in a successful business but in a beacon of hope for communities. It is a powerful reminder that innovation, strength, and the ability to profoundly impact society for the better can emerge from adversity
