The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) is now accepting 2026 applications for its state advocacy grant program. This program, launched in 2023, is aimed at investing in state associations and their boots-on-the-ground lobbying capacity for the upcoming legislative cycle.

This is an effective way for the PCA to respond to legislative and regulatory threats in real-time. It also is PCA’s investment in the important work of state associations and local retailers that lead these partner organizations. Over $150,000 in grants have been awarded to retail state associations since the program begin since the program’s launch in 2023.

“The state advocacy grant program is a tangible means for PCA to support significant state legislation. It allows our network of state associations to monitor and advocate on bills that represent threats, as well as opportunities for their shops. It’s also an incentive for states to get organized to better engage in the legislative process,” remarks Glynn Loope, PCA’s Director of State Advocacy. “We stand ready to assist with each step in the process.”

The resources in the program approved by the PCA Board of Directors will be spent much like a match grant program where recipient state associations agree to match funding by the Premium Cigar Association. These funds go toward hiring contract lobbyists to advance positive legislation and to fight back against erroneous regulations. State associations must have a basic infrastructure in place and must meet certain criteria to be eligible for funding, including having an incorporated state association and agree to accountability and transparency with the Premium Cigar Association about where the funds will be spent.

Grant Criteria:

• Have an incorporated and active state association.
• Have an elected board of directors.
• Have a designated treasurer, with authority over accounts.
• Agree to comply with PCA reporting requirements.
• Agree to PCA involvement in consulting lobbyist selection process.
• Agree to disclose any and all issues for which funds are used and for which lobbyist is engaged.
• Provide PCA with the operating budget and amount and source of funds raised by the state association.

Applications can be submitted to the PCA using the link below. Each application will be reviewed by appropriate advocacy staff and the PCA Legislative Affairs Committee. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and will reflect legislative/regulatory necessity in the state.

For more info, you can go to PCA HERE