Olmsted County, Minnesota is officially opening its doors to the adult-use cannabis industry. As of this week, county officials are accepting the first round of applications for adult-use cannabis microbusiness licenses—marking a major step in the implementation of Minnesota’s adult-use cannabis legislation.
According to a news release from the county, this initial application period represents a “significant step” in building out the local cannabis market following the state’s legalization of adult-use cannabis. This opportunity is specifically geared toward microbusinesses, which are unique in that they allow a vertically integrated model. That means a single business can grow, produce, sell, and distribute cannabis products—all under one roof.
In addition, the licenses permit on-site consumption lounges, creating a new space for customers to enjoy cannabis products legally in a controlled environment. These establishments are expected to play a key role in shaping a safe and transparent cannabis culture within the county.
However, there’s a catch—only eight microbusiness licenses will be issued in this initial phase. In the event that more than eight eligible applications are received, Olmsted County will use a public lottery system to determine who gets the licenses. This lottery will be administered by the Olmsted County Elections Office, and county officials have stated they will provide a two-week public notice before the drawing occurs.
Those interested in applying should act quickly. The deadline to submit applications is 5 p.m. on June 20, 2025, and applicants must pay a non-refundable $100 lottery fee to enter the selection process.
This opportunity is part of a broader cannabis rollout across Minnesota. State law allows one cannabis business registration per 12,500 residents, meaning Olmsted County is currently eligible to host up to 14 cannabis businesses total. In the coming months, the county will also open applications for four cannabis retailer licenses, which will allow businesses to distribute cannabis products to other retailers, and two mezzo business licenses, which will allow sales from up to three separate retail locations.
This controlled, phased approach is designed to build a strong regulatory framework around Minnesota's new cannabis economy. For small business owners and cannabis entrepreneurs, the microbusiness license presents a promising opportunity to be early movers in a burgeoning market.
Anyone considering applying should visit the Olmsted County website for detailed requirements, eligibility criteria, and application instructions.
