CBD extraction firm snags tax breaks, hiring assistance in Kentucky

Kentucky’s booming CBD industry received an additional boost when the state granted an extraction company roughly $240,000 in tax breaks, plus help finding and training workers.

Lexington-based firm Zelios, which opened four months ago, said it plans to double its extraction capacity and create 44 full-time jobs for a total investment of about $2.1 million.

Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin announced last week that the company’s eligibility depends on it hitting unspecified employment goals set by the state.

Zelios will also be able to use the Kentucky Skills Network, a state program that offers companies no-cost recruitment and job-placement services as well as jobs training.

“This rapid growth reflects positively on Kentucky’s role as a major player in the burgeoning market for hemp-related products,” Bevin said in a statement.

Zelios also plans to pursue CBD extraction in Erie, Colorado, and Portland, Oregon, the company said.