As the national cannabis landscape continues to evolve, several states are opening the door to new business opportunities through updated licensing frameworks and upcoming application windows.
From lottery-based systems in Minnesota to long-awaited retail expansions in Rhode Island, here’s a roundup of the most important cannabis licensing developments to watch across the country.
Upcoming Cannabis Markets to Watch by State:
- Minnesota
- Rhode Island
- Maryland
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Nebraska
Minnesota Cannabis Licensing
Cannabis License Lotteries Set for June 5
Minnesota is taking a major step forward in launching its adult-use cannabis market. The Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) announced that it will hold license application lotteries on June 5, 2025, for both social equity and general applicants. The lottery will cover three essential license types for building the state’s cannabis supply chain:
- Cannabis Cultivator
- Cannabis Manufacturer
- Cannabis Mezzobusiness
Additionally, the June 5 lottery will include cannabis retailer licenses for social equity applicants (SEAs). A separate lottery for general retail applicants—and a second-chance draw for SEAs not selected in the first round—will follow later this summer.
Each application has undergone a thorough review to ensure compliance with state readiness and statutory requirements. OCM has prioritized license types crucial to launching the market, and lottery results will be livestreamed via the OCM’s YouTube channel and posted on its website. This marks a pivotal moment in the development of Minnesota’s equitable and regulated cannabis industry.
Rhode Island Cannabis Licensing
Dispensary Licensing Regulations Take Effect
While Rhode Island legalized adult-use cannabis in 2022, access has been limited to a small number of hybrid medical dispensaries. That’s expected to change with the May 1, 2025, effective date of new regulations issued by the state’s newly formed Cannabis Control Commission.
Though an exact application window has not yet been announced, the first round is expected to open in spring or summer 2025 and will make available 24 retail dispensary licenses across six geographic zones:
- 12 Open Licenses
- 6 Reserved for Social Equity Applicants
- 6 Reserved for Worker-Owned Cooperatives
Each zone will receive four licenses (2 open, 1 social equity, 1 cooperative). Social equity applicants will pay no application fee and enjoy no annual fee in year one, with fees gradually increasing to $30,000 by year five. All applicants must demonstrate site control and zoning compliance, and proposed locations must be at least 500 feet from schools.
While the application materials have not been released, the published regulations outline the documentation and vetting process in significant detail—giving applicants a head start in preparing for this long-anticipated opportunity.
Maryland Cannabis Licensing
Second Licensing Round Expected Soon
Although no formal date has been announced, Maryland’s cannabis implementation law calls for a second round of adult-use license issuance in 2025. Prospective applicants—particularly social equity and retail operators—should stay alert for updates from the Maryland Cannabis Administration. A second license lottery is likely on the horizon, and preparing early could offer a strategic edge when the window opens.
New Jersey Cannabis Licensing
Consumption Lounge Endorsements Expand July 2
New Jersey’s Cannabis Regulatory Commission will expand access to Class 5 Consumption Lounge endorsements beginning July 2, 2025. While previously limited to social equity, microbusiness, and diversely owned retailers, this upcoming window will allow all Class 5 retail license holders to apply.
This is a key opportunity for established dispensaries to enhance their customer experience and expand business operations by offering on-site cannabis consumption—a potentially high-value addition in competitive markets.
New York State Cannabis Licensing
New Processor Type 3 Branding License Available
New York has introduced a new Processor Type 3 – Branding License, allowing cannabis brands to enter white-label agreements with licensed processors without becoming a true party of interest (TPI). This license is ideal for:
- Brand developers without plant-touching operations
- Entrepreneurs seeking to outsource production
- Companies looking to expand brand presence in New York without operating a facility
This license does not authorize cannabis handling or require a physical location, but it provides a legal pathway for brand-building and product distribution through licensed manufacturers.
North Carolina Cannabis Licensing
Medical Cannabis Licensing on the Horizon
North Carolina may finally join the ranks of medical cannabis states. House Bill 413, introduced in March 2025, proposes adult-use legalization and outlines a licensing structure for cultivation, manufacturing, and retail sales. The bill includes provisions for:
- Personal possession (up to 2 ounces of cannabis)
- Home cultivation (up to 6 plants)
- A 30% excise tax on cannabis sales (plus optional 2% local tax)
Though legalization is not yet enacted, 2026 could bring a medical or adult-use licensing framework if the bill gains traction and legal challenges are resolved.
Nebraska Cannabis Licensing
Medical Marijuana Implementation in Progress
Following voter approval of two medical cannabis measures in 2024, Nebraska is in the process of developing its regulatory framework. Several bills have been introduced to establish patient registries, licensing structures, and social equity provisions.
However, the state’s Attorney General is currently challenging the validity of the ballot measures in court. If upheld, licensing for medical cannabis businesses could begin as early as 2026, pending legislative action and legal resolution.
How to Capitalize on New Cannabis Markets: Be Ready, Be Early
With new markets opening and existing ones expanding, 2025 and 2026 offer major opportunities for cannabis entrepreneurs across the U.S. Whether you’re looking to apply in a lottery state like Minnesota or prepare for regulatory shifts in Rhode Island or Maryland, early preparation and regulatory insight are key.
Stay informed, gather your documentation, and be ready to act as states finalize timelines and release application materials. For tailored licensing guidance or help preparing your application package, feel free to reach out to our team.
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