This program is a fantastic opportunity for your local government to access up to $20 million aimed at creating and enhancing cannabis retailer licensing. By applying for this funding, you can support efforts to improve consumer access to safe and regulated cannabis, while also combatting the illicit market. The funds can be used for critical aspects such as supporting equity applicants, managing permitting expenses, and hiring personnel, ensuring a well-structured cannabis retail landscape in your area.

Participating in this program places your jurisdiction in a prime position to help drive significant growth in the local cannabis industry. Priority points are available for jurisdictions that assist equity businesses and enhance consumer access, allowing you to push your application to the front of the line. Getting approved not only benefits the community by promoting safe cannabis access, but it also sets the foundation for a thriving cannabis retail environment that meets existing demand.

Don't miss out on this chance to secure funding that can directly impact your local economy and the safety of your community. With the application period opening in October, now is the time to prepare and ensure your locality is ready to reap the rewards!

Type of Financing
This program offers a grant, providing local governments with funding to develop and implement cannabis retailer licensing programs. Grants do not require repayment, so you can focus on your project without worrying about returning the money.

Eligible Expenses
The funds can be used for various expenses, including:

• Support for equity applicants and licensees
• Environmental reviews
• Permitting expenses
• Personnel costs

Restrictions on Use of Funds
It's important to note that the funds cannot be used for any non-cannabis related expenses. Be sure to keep your focus on the outlined eligible expenses.

Fees
There are no fees associated with applying for or receiving this grant. Ensure you seize this opportunity without the concern of extra costs.

• Eligible Local Jurisdictions: Must be a city or county in the state.
• Cannabis Retail Licensing Requirement: The jurisdiction must not currently have a cannabis retail licensing program.
• Development Plan: The jurisdiction must have a plan to develop and implement a cannabis retail licensing program.
• Employee Requirements: No minimum or maximum number of employees is required.
• Revenue Requirements: No minimum or maximum revenue qualifications.
• Legal Structure: All legal structures are applicable.
• Profit Structure: All profit structures are applicable.

Disqualification Criteria

• Must not currently have a cannabis retail licensing program.

This program offers your local government the chance to access a share of $20 million to create and improve cannabis retailer licensing programs. The goal is to ensure consumers have reliable access to regulated, tested cannabis while also reducing the illicit market. By providing these resources, you can help make cannabis retail more accessible and legitimate in your area.

The funds can be used for a variety of important needs. You can cover costs related to supporting equity applicants and licensees, conducting environmental reviews, managing permitting expenses, and hiring personnel. This support is essential for developing a strong cannabis retail landscape that meets consumer demand and operates safely.

Applications will be prioritized for local jurisdictions that plan to assist cannabis equity businesses and enhance consumer access to safe cannabis. In Phase II, which opens in October, over $15 million will be available. If your local area meets the criteria, you could be in a prime position to secure funding and drive growth in cannabis retailing.