Licensing and permits
Cannabis businesses in Minnesota require a state license for their specific operation (micro-business, processor, retailer, etc.) from the Office of Cannabis Management. The Office of Cannabis Management has a full list of cannabis business licensees on its website.
Environmental permits may also be required to ensure compliance with air, waste, and water rules and regulations. The permitting process involves emissions calculations, facility assessments, mitigation plan creation, and more, which may be handled by federal, state, and/or local authorities.
Resources and assistance
Grant programs
Entrepreneurs can navigate the market, create jobs, and access funding through three grant programs: Startup Financing grants for social equity applicants, Navigation grants for all licensed businesses, and Training grants for workforce development. Grants established by the cannabis law will be available through Office of Cannabis Management and Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.
Environmental assistance
The MPCA offers resources to help businesses comply with environmental regulations:
- Zero-interest small business environmental improvement loans for equipment upgrades and cleanups.
- Small business environmental assistance on permitting, waste reduction, and more.
Product packaging and labeling
Packaging must be clearly labeled, child-resistant, tamper-evident, and opaque. Edibles packaging must be resealable and FDA-approved.
Label requirements vary by product type and generally include:
- Name and license number of cultivator/manufacturer
- Batch number
- Cannabis symbol
- Warning label (not for children)
- Minnesota Poison Control hotline number