CVM did pay consultants with stocks:
"During the three months ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company issued 15,044 and 15,819 shares of restricted common stock, respectively, to consultants for services. The weighted average grant date fair value of the shares issued to consultants was $12.45 and $7.18, respectively, during the three months ended December 31, 2020 and 2019."