Maryland Adult Use Cannabis -

Maryland opened the adult use cannabis industry to the public on 7/1/23. As of 7/5/23, tax revenue from adult use sales surpassed 10 million dollars. However, only businesses previously licensed as medical cannabis dispensaries are currently able to offer marijuana to adults 21 and older.

What Is Next?

The Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA), in partnership with the Office of Social Equity will spend July and August of 2023 conducting a plan and process for licensing of additional businesses. In fall of 2023, the MCA will open applications for additional licensing. Businesses and individuals interested in applying will have a 30 day window to submit their application.

What Kind Of Licenses Are Available?

It is important to note, Maryland will only be awarding licenses to social equity candidates. The qualifications to apply include holding at least 65% of the company; Lived in a disproportionately impacted area for at least 5 of the last 10 years; Attended a public school in a disproportionately impacted area for at least 5 years; OR Attended 2 years at a 4-year institution of higher education in the State where at least 40% of the individuals who attended the institution were eligible for a Pell grant.

The MCA may award the following license types:

For standard licenses:
- 20 grower licenses
- 40 processor licenses
- 80 dispensary licenses
For micro licenses: (A micro-business can still sell, process, or dispense like a standard license; however, they may be legally limited on the amount of cannabis they can dispense, process, or grow)
- 30 grower licenses
- 30 processor licenses
- 10 dispensary licenses
10 incubator space licenses

What Is Required To Apply?

An applicant must provide an operation plan, a business plan, and a detailed diversity plan to apply. Additionally, a fee is required. A micro-business application is $1,000 whereas a standard license is $5,000.