Question 1

How does the Minnesota cannabis license lottery work?

Accepted Answer

Minnesota uses a lottery system to fairly distribute cannabis licenses. Qualified applicants submit applications during designated windows, and licenses are awarded through a random drawing. Social equity applicants may receive priority or bonus entries depending on the lottery type.

Question 2

What are the fees for a cannabis license in Minnesota?

Accepted Answer

License fees vary by type: Retail/Manufacturing licenses cost $20,000, Cultivation licenses are $15,000, and Microbusiness licenses are $5,000. There are also annual renewal fees and application fees. Social equity applicants may qualify for fee reductions or payment plans.

Question 3

Who qualifies as a social equity applicant?

Accepted Answer

Social equity applicants include individuals who lived in a disproportionately impacted area for 5+ years, were convicted of a cannabis offense (or have a family member who was), or served in the military and were discharged due to cannabis. Certain income requirements may also apply.

Question 4

Can I apply for multiple license types?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can apply for multiple license types in the same lottery window if you meet the requirements for each. However, some license types (like Microbusiness) have specific restrictions on what other licenses you can hold.

Question 5

What happens if I win the lottery?

Accepted Answer

Lottery winners receive a provisional license. You then have a set period (typically 12-18 months) to secure a location, complete buildout, pass inspections, and meet all regulatory requirements before receiving your final operating license.

Question 6

Can out-of-state residents apply for Minnesota cannabis licenses?

Accepted Answer

While there is no residency requirement for most license types, Minnesota residents and social equity applicants receive priority. Microbusiness licenses do require Minnesota residency. Additionally, practical considerations like local real estate and operations favor in-state applicants.

Minnesota Cannabis

Minnesota Cannabis License Lottery

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2026 Lottery Schedule

Social Equity License Lottery - Q1 2026

General License Lottery - Q2 2026

Microbusiness License Lottery

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