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Joshua Kesselman, through the power of RAW, has contributed more than $2.5 million in direct cash contributions, plus in-kind contributions of about $200,000 to a wide variety of charities over the years.

Josh Kesselman, HBI International Founder, Interviewed at MJBizCon

Josh Kesselman, HBI International Founder, Interviewed at MJBizCon

Josh Kesselman, founder of HBI International and the RAW rolling papers brand, was interviewed at MJBizCon 2025 in Las Vegas, discussing RAW’s production process, upcoming product launches, and industry trends. During the interview with Cannabis Equipment News, Kesselman introduced a new collaboration with CCELL to develop a product compatible with all types of legal live rosin, currently titled RAWsin. He emphasized his hands-on approach to research and development, stating that RAW products must meet high-quality standards to satisfy their community. Kesselman also highlighted RAW’s commitment to innovation and community, reinforcing the brand’s core values of quality, service, and dedication since its launch in 2005. MJBizCon 2025 featured over 1,400 exhibitors, 100+ speakers, and multiple pre-show forums, providing a major platform for industry insights and networking. Full interview and additional information about HBI International and RAW can be found online.

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Josh Kesselman, Founder of HBI International, Featured on the Cover of MG Magazine

Josh Kesselman, Founder of HBI International, Featured on the Cover of MG Magazine

Josh Kesselman, founder of HBI International and RAW Rolling Papers, was featured on the cover of MG Magazine’s December issue, highlighting his insights on the cannabis industry and the growth of the RAW brand. In the ‘Executive Insight’ interview with journalist Christopher Jones, Kesselman shared his early experiences in the rolling papers industry, discussed influences such as Mr. Rogers on his community engagement style, and offered perspectives on U.S. cannabis legalization trends. He noted that the U.S. market may follow a pattern similar to Canada’s boom-and-bust cycle. Since launching RAW in 2005 in Phoenix, Arizona, Kesselman has built a dedicated global following for the brand, known for its innovation, plant-based products, and commitment to serving the cannabis community. Full interview available on MG Magazine’s website.

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Josh Kesselman, HBI International Founder, Announces $8.7 Million Award over RAW Lookalike

Josh Kesselman, HBI International Founder, Announces $8.7 Million Award over RAW Lookalike

RAW® Rolling Papers Secures $8.7M Court Victory Against Copycat Brand RAW® founder Josh Kesselman announced a major win for HBI International (now HBI Innovations): an $8.7 million judgment against companies behind the Brocone brand for copying RAW® packaging designs. On Dec. 17, 2024, the U.S. District Court of Nevada awarded: $3M+ in wrongful profits $5.6M+ in statutory damages The case targeted Brocone Organic (India), AIMS Group USA, and Florida One Wholesale—reinforcing RAW®’s stance against counterfeits and lookalikes. Kesselman stated: “We can’t let anyone trick our family into buying something that isn’t genuine RAW.” Learn more at rawthentic.com.

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Josh Kesselman, HBI Innovations Founder, Announces $10,000 Donation to Milo's Sanctuary, Inc.

Josh Kesselman, HBI Innovations Founder, Announces $10,000 Donation to Milo's Sanctuary, Inc.

Josh Kesselman, founder of HBI Innovations, announced a $10,000 donation to Milo’s Sanctuary & Special Needs Cat Rescue, Inc. through his RAW Giving initiative. Milo’s Sanctuary, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, provides lifetime care for cats with disabilities, seniors, terminal illnesses, or those rescued from abuse. The donation supports the sanctuary’s efforts to shelter animals and their owners impacted by California wildfires, allowing evacuees to stay with their pets. This contribution reflects Kesselman’s commitment to using RAW Giving to uplift organizations that make a tangible difference, emphasizing compassion, collective well-being, and the philosophy: “We all get higher together.”

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