
Business Creation, Application & Licensing
Carpfish Creative collaborates directly with leading national advisors to manage national applications and licensing for Carpfish Clients. Once the license is secured, Carpfish Advisors will proceed with the ongoing success plan, connecting clients with our extensive network to tailor operations based on their unique needs. We also provide regional assistance to Canna Advisors, Cannaspire, and others during the application process under a contractor relationship. We are committed to delivering the same exceptional, boutique-style service that is reflected in our partnerships. We offer a wide range of services for dispensaries, manufacturing, cultivation, compliance, technology, hiring, and training, catering to businesses of all sizes.
How Are Applications Typically Scored?
Each state that moves forward with a recreational or medical cannabis business comes up with its unique plan, usually based on either a point system or a lottery system.
A General Outline that most States follow includes:
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Status as a Social Applicant (Can be up to 20% on point systems). The impact of cannabis prohibition, such as arrest and/or imprisonment of the applicant or an immediate family member, would grant social equity status.
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Status as a Veteran or Retired National Guard
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Business Plan & Financials
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Security Plans
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Record Keeping & Compliance Plan
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Employee Training Plan (Pre and Ongoing)
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Labor & Employment Practices
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Environmental Plan
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Community Outreach/Involvement
What Should I do to Start Preparing?
Business Planning and Documentation
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Develop a comprehensive business plan that includes:
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Product offerings and marketing strategies
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Financial projections and funding sources
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Operational details and growth anticipation
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Record-keeping methods
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Prepare essential documents: Proof of legal possession of your business premises, Trade name registration, Partnership, operating, or shareholder agreements (if applicable), and Environmental plan. Security plan and drawings
Legal and Regulatory Compliance
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Form your business entity and register with the state.
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Obtain a federal tax ID number (EIN) and appropriate state IDs.
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Research and understand Minnesota's cannabis regulations
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Prepare for background checks for all owners and key personnel
Location and Operations
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Identify a suitable location that complies with local zoning ordinances.
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Develop detailed operating procedures, including: Employee training plans, Security measures, Product tracking and inventory management, Waste disposal protocols
Financial Preparations
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Secure adequate funding for startup costs and ongoing operations
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Prepare financial records and accounts for the business
Social Equity and Community Impact
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If applicable, gather documentation to support the social equity applicant status
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Develop plans for diversity in ownership, management, and employment
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Create a positive impact plan for the local community
Application-Specific Preparations
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Familiarize yourself with the application process and requirements
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Gather personal information for all owners and key personnel
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Prepare a knowledge and experience statement highlighting relevant expertise
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Develop a labor and employment practices plan
Focusing on these areas will prepare you well for the Minnesota cannabis business license application process. Remember to stay updated on any changes in regulations or application procedures as the industry evolves.
Cannabis License Sales Services
Whether you are looking to buy or sell a cannabis license, we provide expert guidance and an unparalleled network to support your success. We work with top brokers across the U.S. for broad reach and access.
Our Process
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Consultation & Assessment. Confidential review of your goals and market position.
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Market Matchmaking. Leveraging our broker network to identify ideal opportunities.
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Transaction Execution. End-to-end management of negotiations, contracts, and compliance.
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Post-Transaction Support. Help with license transfer, continued compliance, and operational ramp-up.
For Buyers
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Identification of available licenses nationwide.
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Due diligence and compliance assessment.
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Negotiation and transaction management.
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Transition assistance post-purchase.
For Sellers
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License valuation and market positioning.
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Access to pre-qualified buyers.
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Discreet and strategic listing services.
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Guidance through closing and regulatory transfer.
For Investors
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View and connect with license holders looking for investment help.
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Access to slide decks, financials, etc.









