Minnesota Cannabis License Lottery Set for June 5

The North Star State’s adult-use cannabis market is ramping up—and the next big step is here. On June 5, a highly anticipated Minnesota cannabis license lottery will be held that will determine which cultivators, manufacturers, and mezzobusinesses get the green light to launch operations. With over $1 billion in projected market potential, this is more than just paperwork—it’s the groundwork for Minnesota’s cannabis future.

Key Takeaways

• Minnesota’s cannabis license lottery takes place June 5
• License categories: cultivation, manufacturing, and mezzobusiness
• A separate lottery will be held the same day for social equity retail applicants
• A general retail license lottery is expected to follow in July

Building the Supply Chain First

Before consumers ever walk into a dispensary, there needs to be something to buy—and someone to grow and make it. That’s why Minnesota is starting with the supply side.

By awarding licenses for cultivators, manufacturers, and mezzobusinesses first, the state is building the infrastructure it needs to support a functioning adult-use market.

This step ensures that once retail licenses roll out, there will already be products on shelves and operations in motion. It’s a “build it before they come” approach—and with retail sales expected to launch in 2025, it’s right on schedule.

A Strong Push for Social Equity

Equity isn’t just a buzzword in Minnesota’s cannabis rollout—it’s baked into the process. A separate lottery on June 5 is dedicated to social equity applicants applying for retail licenses. This group includes folks who’ve been disproportionately impacted by past cannabis laws, military veterans, and people from areas with high poverty or historical enforcement disparities.

It’s part of a larger effort to make sure the cannabis industry in Minnesota is accessible—not just to those with deep pockets, but to communities that were often hit the hardest during prohibition.

Application Numbers at a Glance

The excitement is real—and the competition is fierce. Here’s how the numbers break down going into the June 5 lottery:

And that’s not counting the flood of social equity retail applications also being processed. Let’s just say—Minnesota cannabis entrepreneurs are showing up.

What Comes After the Minnesota Cannabis License Lottery?

After the supply-side licenses and social equity retail licenses are awarded on June 5, Minnesota plans to hold a general lottery for retail licenses in July. That will open the door to a broader group of applicants who want in on the adult-use retail space.

The state is also livestreaming the lottery process to ensure transparency and give everyone—from applicants to curious observers—a front-row seat.

Final Thoughts

Minnesota isn’t rushing its adult-use market rollout—it’s building it with intention. By starting with cultivators and manufacturers, and giving early retail access to social equity applicants, the state is setting the tone for a cannabis industry that’s structured, inclusive, and ready to serve.

The June 5 cannabis license lottery will be a major milestone. And for those lucky enough to be picked? It’s the start of something much bigger.