Since their humble beginnings in a Northern California kitchen, Kiva founders Kristi Knoblich and Scott Palmer have been redefining the cannabis-infused edible as we know it. After noticing how unpredictable edibles were, Knoblich and Palmer wanted to create an edible people could rely on. Kiva products offer reliable dosages every time, so you always know what you are signing up for. They’ve also created products specifically for microdosing to take the edge off while maintaining clarity to get stuff done.
Kiva’s commitment to food safety and business integrity has garnered the trust of their loyal customers in California, Arizona, Nevada, Illinois, Hawaii and beyond. Their chocolate, mints, and gummies have earned them top spots in competitions, including 8 “Best Edible” wins. But don’t take our word for it–we talked to founder Kristi Knoblich to learn more about the award-winning brand.
Q
What sets Kiva apart from other edibles out there?
A
I created KIVA in 2010 with a single goal to create a premium edible that redefined what a cannabis confection ought to be. By adhering to the highest standards of product quality, certified production methods, efficacy testing, and innovation, KIVA Confections is now renowned industry-wide for producing and delivering the safest, most convenient, and delicious tasting cannabis products to a discerning and deserving community. We uphold this through an unwavering commitment to efficacy, food safety, and steadfast business integrity. The brand is also extremely forward thinking, and constantly draws inspiration for current and future brand offerings from unexpected sources like art, history, travel, pop culture, and more.
Q
Kiva is all about reliability. How do you guys ensure precise dosing every time?
A
Our stringent efficacy testing and production methods ensure precise dosing every time, so consumers can expect a consistent and reliable experience when they enjoy our products. All KIVA products are scored into 5mg THC pieces or less, so it’s easy to properly and accurately dose out the right amount for you.
Q
What changes in the cannabis industry do you hope to inspire through your brand?
A
Here at KIVA, we are very passionate about doing the right thing for the consumer and hope other brands follow suit, especially with cannabis regulation and reform becoming more mainstream. Whether it’s our quality control procedures, our product innovation pipeline or our excellent customer service, we are always thinking of our consumers and how we can best serve them, and want other brands to see themselves this way, rather than just being a revenue stream.
Q
What are the pitfalls or challenges for women in cannabis?
A
I think quite the opposite, actually. Since the industry is so male-dominated right now, myself and other female founders are able to stand out amongst the crowd. As a woman in cannabis, I’m able to offer a unique perspective which gives me a leg up on the competition.
Q
Can you tell us about your new line, Camino?
A
With our latest product, Camino Gummies, we tailored terpene blends to achieve a certain effect with each of our gummy formulations. For example, our Wild Berry flavor offers a chill, relaxing effect, so it’s the perfect way to unwind at the end of a long, hectic day. Contrastly, our Pineapple Habanero flavor offers uplifting effects, so consumers love it for more social activities, like before a concert or event.
Q
What’s next for Kiva?
A
We are exploring all kinds of new product categories and mediums to infuse with cannabis — innovation is truly at the core of our brand identity. Markets outside of California provide great opportunity to expand the brand to canna-curious people on the other coasts, and being from Oakland, we are also passionate about expanding our California distribution reach and fortify our pre-existing relationships with our dispensary buyers.
