A million here, a half-a-million there — hemp building companies are coming to the attention of investors and pitch competitions as the industry becomes more visible.

As a hemp builder, when your loved ones ask you for gift ideas, does your mind freeze? Are you dreading a stocking full of online retailer gift cards? Instead, send some hints with the links here.

The US Hemp Building Association, the American trade association for the promotion of hemp building materials and construction, on Nov. 17 announced an upcoming election and call for candidates of its complete seven-member volunteer board of directors.

Hemp-based construction companies have been knocking on the door of events like San Francisco’s Greenbuild Expo for years. But this year, three companies presented their products and networked with the many designers, builders, architects, engineers and city officials attending.