Minnesota’s Office of Cannabis Management has announced that it will hold lotteries for cannabis license applications on June 5, 2025, marking a key step in the launch of the state’s recreational marijuana market. These lotteries will provide opportunities for applicants seeking licenses in three categories: cannabis cultivators, cannabis manufacturers, and cannabis mezzobusinesses.
Additionally, a separate lottery for social equity retailer licenses will occur on the same day. This initiative aims to support individuals who have been disproportionately affected by past cannabis laws. To qualify as a social equity applicant, individuals must either have a conviction for cannabis possession or sale or have a family member with such a conviction. Other qualifying factors include being a veteran, residing in high-poverty areas, or working in farm operations.
Jess Jackson, the director of social equity at the cannabis management office, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming lotteries, stating, “It’s exciting to see the entrepreneurial spirit of our applicants as they get closer to having a license in hand and prepare to open their doors for business.”
The June 5 lotteries are expected to attract a diverse range of applicants eager to enter the cannabis industry, with a second round of lotteries for general applicants planned for later in the summer. This structured approach aims to ensure a fair distribution of licenses and foster a competitive marketplace as Minnesota prepares to officially launch its recreational cannabis sector.
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