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License Types
Currently Available

Massachusetts has legalized cannabis for both medical and adult use. The Cannabis Control Commission is responsible for overseeing the cannabis licensing process. 

 

  • Retailer
  • Cultivator
  • Product Manufacturer
  • Delivery Operator
  • Courier
  • Independent Testing Laboratory
  • Third Party Transporter
  • Transporter License add-on
  • Research Facility

Applicants can also apply for microbusiness licenses of certain types based on the above list. A social equity program also provides for expedited review of applications for qualified applicants.

What You Need To Apply

In order to apply for a license in Massachusetts, here are the top items you want to complete to be successful starting your journey into the cannabis space:

  1. Decide what type of business (or businesses) you want to pursue cannabis business licenses for.

    Review the list of license types available for application to determine what might be the best fit for you and your business aspirations.

  2. Assemble Your Team

    The next step is to gather your team of experts. Having financial backing in the form of investors is crucial so that you are able to procure consultation services, a location, and other resources along the way. Don’t make the mistake of getting knee-deep in your plan and then running out of money to see it through. After you’ve made sure your funding is set, assemble your team of people you can trust. Specifically, you want people who have experience in the industry and who are well-informed so that you can highlight your team’s expertise in your application.

  3. Secure a Property

    Prior to obtaining a license you will need to secure property that is zoned correctly and able to support the needs of a cannabis business. This can, at times, be the most challenging part of the process. Our team has worked with countless municipalities to assist our clients in obtaining compliant properties in correctly zoned areas.

  4. Draft Your Application

    Application requirements vary between Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and narrative forms surrounding the expectations you have for your business. Either way, these need to be compliant with all state, local, and federal regulations. Ensuring that you are compliant is one of the most important steps in the application process. Canna Business Services has years of experience drafting award-winning applications for our clients in competitive states. Set up a meeting with us today to discuss how we can help you with your business.

  5. Read more on our blog about how to take the first steps towards licensure.

History of Cannabis in
Massachusetts

The history of legal cannabis use in Massachusetts begins in 2008 when Massachusetts decriminalized small amounts of cannabis. The next step Massachusetts took in 2012 was to legalize cannabis for medical use. Retail and adult-use sales became legal in November 2018. 935 CMR is the law that governs the licensing and operations of cannabis businesses in Massachusetts. Massachusetts requires support on the local as well as the state level in order for a facility to become licensed to operate.

Entering into the cannabis industry can be difficult. Along with setting up operations, you need to comply with the many restrictions and requirements. Competition is fierce and oversights can be extremely detrimental. Licensing in Massachusetts can be denied for failing to show commitment to diversity and inclusion plans. According to state requirements, applicants must indicate how their business will positively impact those who have been significantly affected by cannabis prohibition.

Cannabis Business Consulting in Massachusetts

Canna Business Services works with you to establish clearly defined objectives for your recreational/medical cannabis operation. We help you get everything right and optimize the chance of success. Our team of experienced cannabis consultants identify strengths and weaknesses and guide you toward a sustainable and prosperous business. No matter your current stage of development, we have the expertise and background to facilitate advancement to the next level.

Massachusetts Cannabis Business Marketing Services

Our team is constructed mainly of women with strong skill sets, a deep understanding of regulations, and the ability to write professionally. Reach out to us at (888) 453-0555 for a consultation and start off smart, remain on track, and achieve your immediate and long-term objectives. Our capabilities cover the application process, fractional c-suite options, compliance and commercialization, local zoning, label review, and more.