[ABC 6 News] — A major milestone in Minnesota’s journey toward launching a regulated cannabis market is on the horizon, as a date has now been officially set for the cannabis license application lottery.
On June 5, 2025, the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) will conduct drawings for a range of applicants. This initial lottery will include both social equity and general applicants seeking licenses in three key categories: cannabis cultivator, cannabis manufacturer, and cannabis mezzobusiness. These license types are considered essential for establishing the state’s cannabis supply chain infrastructure.
The lottery process for general retailer applicants, who intend to sell cannabis products directly to consumers, will be conducted later this summer, according to state officials. The staggered approach is intended to ensure a structured rollout that prioritizes critical early steps in the supply chain.
In a press release, OCM Interim Director Eric Taubel explained the reasoning behind the order of the lotteries. “The office has prioritized the review of applications for the license types necessary to successfully stage the market,” Taubel said. “Today’s announcement reflects the office’s goal to license the supply chain from the starting points in order to foster an equitable cannabis market that prioritizes public health and safety, consumer confidence, and market integrity.”
The OCM has emphasized its commitment to social equity as part of Minnesota’s approach to cannabis legalization. Social equity applicants — individuals who have been disproportionately impacted by past cannabis enforcement policies — are receiving targeted support and prioritization throughout the licensing process.
According to Jess Jackson, the OCM’s Director of Social Equity, this approach is already showing results. “In the coming weeks, more and more applicants will be notified that they are advancing to the application lotteries. They will soon join the hundreds of qualified social equity applicants who are already deep in the process of completing application requirements,” Jackson stated. “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.”
Minnesota legalized adult-use cannabis in 2023, and state officials have worked since then to build a regulated market with a strong focus on equity, safety, and sustainability. The upcoming lottery is a major step forward in realizing that vision.
For more information on the licensing process, application categories, or upcoming deadlines, visit the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management website.
