Minnesota’s New Cannabis Reports: Updates for Entrepreneurs

Navigating New Minnesota Cannabis Reports

In the ever-evolving landscape of cannabis legalization, staying abreast of regulatory changes is crucial for cannabis industry entrepreneurs. The recent release of two pivotal reports by the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) is big news in the Minnesota cannabis community. As cannabis licensing consultants who have been involved in regulatory rollouts in dozens of states, we’re excited to shed light on the implications of these reports and how cannabis business licensing in Minnesota and related timelines could be affected.

 

Minnesota Cannabis Report 1: “OCM Annual Report to Legislature (2024)”

The OCM Annual Report to the Legislature, our first glimpse of the regulatory framework in Minnesota, provides key insights into the state’s goals for their new cannabis industry. As we delved into the report, it became evident that the legislative licensing recommendations, particularly those related to social equity, are poised to shape the future of cannabis business licensing in the state. On page 4 of the report, attention is drawn to potential delays in licensing regulations and the Request for Proposal (RFP) processes. 

While this may raise concerns among aspiring cannabis entrepreneurs, it also underscores the state’s commitment to ensuring a fair and equitable industry and gives those entrepreneurs starting a cannabis business time to craft their business plans, financial models, and pitch decks for investors and community leaders.

Legislative Licensing Recommendations & Social Equity

The focus on social equity within the cannabis licensing framework is a positive step towards fostering inclusivity across the industry. Minnesota aims to create provisions for individuals from communities disproportionately affected by the War on Drugs, including:

• Creating a separate license category and for social equity applicants
• Creating expedited regulations and application process for temporary (provisional) social equity licenses
• Requiring 51% majority social equity ownership to qualify as a social equity business (rather than the 100% ownership currently required)

Additional License Recommendations

Aspiring entrepreneurs should closely monitor these recommendations, as they are likely to influence the criteria and processes for obtaining cannabis business licenses. Aside from an emphasis on social equity priority, the OCM also recommends:

• Eliminating the need for implementation of security on the premises at the time of initial application.
• Eliminating the element of local government input during the application process.
• Allowing medical and adult-use supply chains to overlap.

Minnesota Cannabis Report 2: “An Examination of Cannabis Consumers and Cannabis Demand in Minnesota”

The second report, titled “An Examination of Cannabis Consumers and Cannabis Demand in Minnesota,” delves into the intricate relationship between market demand and licensing, as well as data comparisons of other comparable adult-use markets. Pages 11 to 14 provide a comprehensive analysis that unveils valuable insights for entrepreneurs seeking licensure.

According to the report, the state anticipates the issuance of at least 381 retail licenses based on the “12,500 rule.” This rule calculates the number of licenses required based on at least one retailer per 12,500 residents of each municipality in the state. For cannabis dispensary owners, this presents a significant opportunity, but it also signals the importance of strategic planning to navigate a potentially competitive market. Since many Minnesotans don’t live within municipal boundaries, the projected 381 retail cannabis licenses would result in one retail dispensary for every ~15,000 residents (assuming the population of Minnesota is 5.7 million).

Minnesota Rulemaking Public Input Survey #5 — Cannabis Licensing

In a testament to Minnesota’s commitment to inclusive governance, a series of public surveys have been released over the past several weeks, and the Licensing Rulemaking Public Input Survey #5 is now open. This survey provides a platform for stakeholders, including entrepreneurs, to voice their opinions and contribute to the shaping of licensing regulations. As a cannabis consultant and advocate, we encourage all industry participants to actively engage in this process, ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered in Minnesota’s cannabis rulemaking.

 

Stay Ahead Of Minnesota Cannabis Updates With Our License Experts

Minnesota’s recent reports underscore the state’s dedication to building a cannabis industry that is not only robust but also equitable (and nerdy with the data, which we love). Entrepreneurs must stay vigilant and aware of market updates, participate in public input opportunities, and adapt their strategies to align with Minnesota’s evolving regulatory landscapes and timelines. 

The journey to securing a cannabis business license in Minnesota may pose challenges, so contact our experts to learn how you can stay ahead of the competition or reach out for an individual one-on-one hourly consultation booking.