Here is a quick Earth Day event template to promote your upcoming events or business, while helping out our Mother Earth! The best time to schedule is Saturday, April 19, 2025, | 9:00 AM-Noon Join Us in Cleaning Up and Giving Back to Mother Earth! 🌎 Kick off the festivities before Easter and Earth Day by participating in a community cleanup event to engage neighbors, local businesses, and families. This initiative is perfect for promoting your cannabis business or other ventures while making a positive environmental impact. Why Participate? Community Engagement: Build relationships with residents, local groups, and businesses. Brand Awareness: Showcase your business by adding stickers or QR codes to trash bags promoting your products or events. Leave the bags for pickup, and your sticker gets seen on the sides of walkways, etc. Environmental Impact: Help clean up public spaces and contribute to a healthier planet. Event Details Location: Select public parks, streets, or neighborhoods near your business. Supplies Provided: Gloves, trash bags, and refreshments. How This Helps the Cannabis/Hemp/Brewery/etc Industries 🌿 By participating in community cleanups, cannabis businesses can improve their image, break down negative stereotypes, and foster goodwill within their communities. A cleaner environment benefits cultivation practices and demonstrates an industry-wide commitment to sustainability. Let’s Clean Up Together! 🌸🌿 Ideas on Rewards for Participants: Adults: “First Beer Free” 🍺 at a partnered brewery or a free THC gummy sample 🌿 (21+). Kids: Store-bought treats 🍪 or fun activities like a nature scavenger hunt 🕵️‍♂️🌱. Steps to Prepare Your Cleanup Event Quick Breakdown: Choose the date, time, and cleanup site(s). Ensure the locations are accessible and safe for all ages. If necessary, talk with the police. Coordinate with local government or business partner for waste disposal and permits 🚓🏛️. Collaborate with Partners: Team up with breweries 🍺, hemp companies 🌿, neighborhood groups 🏘️, and schools 🎓. Secure sponsorships or donations for supplies like gloves and trash bags. Promote Your Event: Create an online signup form on your website 📱🖥️. Use social media campaigns 📢📸 and flyers to spread the word. Prepare Supplies & Volunteers: Arrange cleanup tools (trash bags, gloves). Assign roles to volunteers for smooth coordination. Add Branding Opportunities: Place stickers or QR codes on collected trash bags to promote your business or upcoming events 🎨📱. Reward Participants & Celebrate Success: Offer incentives like free samples or drinks 🍬🍺. Share event photos on social media using hashtags like #EarthDayCleanup 🌍📸. Kid-Friendly Alternatives 🌟 Make the event family-friendly with activities such as: Nature scavenger hunts 🕵️‍♀️🌳 to teach kids about biodiversity. Upcycling crafts 🎨🖌️ using collected materials like bottles or cardboard. Join us in making a difference this Earth Day while connecting with your community and promoting your business! CANVA TUTORIAL: Poster Design Suggestions: Vintage “Mother Nature” aesthetic featuring earthy tones (greens, browns) 🌾🌼. Illustrations of nature (trees, rivers) alongside cleanup tools (gloves, trash bags). Prominent call-to-action text like “Join Us!” paired with icons (hands holding Earth 🌎). To create a professional poster for your Earth Day Community Cleanup Event, you can use Canva, Adobe Express, or Picsart—all free and user-friendly tools. Here’s how you can proceed: Steps to Create Your Poster Using Canva ⦁ Go to Canva: Visit Canva's free online poster maker. ⦁ Select a Template: Choose a vintage-style template or start from scratch. ⦁ Customize the Design: ⦁ Add earthy tones like greens and browns. ⦁ Include illustrations of nature (trees, rivers) and cleanup tools (gloves, trash bags). ⦁ Incorporate icons like hands holding Earth 🌎 and rewards icons (beer 🍺, gummies 🌿, treats 🍪). ⦁ Insert Content: ⦁ Title: Earth Day Community Cleanup Event Saturday, April 19, 2025 | 9:00 AM - Noon ⦁ Subtitle: Join Us in Cleaning Up and Giving Back to Mother Earth! 🌎 ⦁ Sections: ⦁ Why Participate? (Community Engagement, Brand Awareness, Environmental Impact) ⦁ Event Details (Location, Supplies Provided, Rewards for Participants) ⦁ Steps to Prepare (Plan the Event, Collaborate with Partners, Promote Your Event) ⦁ Kid-Friendly Alternatives (Nature scavenger hunts 🕵️‍♀️🌳, Upcycling crafts 🎨🖌️). ⦁ How This Helps the Cannabis Industry 🌿. ⦁ Add Branding: ⦁ Include your business logo and QR codes linking to your website or event signup page. ⦁ Export the Poster: ⦁ Save as a high-resolution PDF for printing or digital sharing. Alternative Tools ⦁ Adobe Express: Offers customizable templates with options for adding logos, colors, and icons. Perfect for beginners. ⦁ Picsart: Provides vintage-style templates and allows easy drag-and-drop customization. Poster Design Suggestions ⦁ Use a vintage “Mother Nature” aesthetic featuring earthy tones. ⦁ Highlight rewards visually (e.g., beer mugs 🍺 or gummy packs 🌿). ⦁ Add a bold call-to-action like “Let’s Clean Up Together!” prominently at the bottom. These tools will allow you to create and share a stunning poster for your event without requiring advanced design skills! ⁂

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tomorrow, Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at 8:15 AM, the Commerce Finance and Policy Committee, chaired by Rep. Tim O'Driscoll, will meet in Capitol 120 to discuss HF 2426—a bill that threatens the future of Minnesota's cannabis industry. 𝐋𝐞𝐭’𝐬 𝐛𝐞 𝐜𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫: HF 2426 is a corporate power grab designed to crush small growers and local businesses while handing control to massive corporations. These companies have poured significant political donations into the pockets of top lawmakers throughout the cannabis legislative process. Their influence has infiltrated the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), shaping policies that prioritize profits for a few over fairness for all. 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗛𝗙 𝟮𝟰𝟮𝟲 𝗱𝗼𝗲𝘀: ✅ Increases cultivation limits by 50%, giving large corporations an overwhelming competitive edge over small growers. ✅ Integrates medical and adult-use markets, allowing big players to dominate both sectors from day one. ✅ Grants unchecked purchasing power, enabling price manipulation that will squeeze small farmers out of business. ✅ Repeals manufacturing size limits, favoring large-scale operations and leaving small processors in the dust. This is not about fostering a fair and thriving cannabis market—it’s about creating a corporate oligopoly that devastates local businesses and strengthens the black market. The very policies crafted under OCM have already led to a booming illicit market, and HF 2426 will only make things worse. 𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗴𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝘀: Community is strong 💪 , and community can win. We’ve seen time and again that when people come together, we can push back against special interests and demand policies that reflect our values. 💬  𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗼? 1️⃣ Show up tomorrow at Capitol 120 to make your voice heard. (DO NOT BRING BANANNAS THIS TIME; I KNOW EGGS ARE EXPENSIVE) 2️⃣ Contact your representatives today—demand they reject HF 2426! 3️⃣ Share this post to spread awareness and rally support for Minnesota’s small farmers and entrepreneurs. Together, we can fight back against corporate greed and protect Minnesota’s cannabis industry for the people who built it—not just for those who can buy it. Let’s stand up for fairness, competition, and community-driven solutions! 💪🌱 #RejectHF2426   #CannabisJustice   #SupportSmallFarmers   #CommunityStrong   #creativenetwork   #ai_deepresearch   #carpfishcreative

Thanks to our friends at Meta Reality for putting together this chart... A Few Important Links.. . The OCM Qualified Applicant Guide can be found here: https://mn.gov/ocm/assets/OCM_Qualified_Applicant_Guide_tcm1202-669481.pdf#False Final Rules (Signed by Judge: Rulemaking / Office of Cannabis Management See Carpfish Creative's upcoming events Need Help? Book time with a Creative Network Advisor

Image Posted in Hemp : Originally posted on May 31, 2023, by: Chris Bennett This year, April 20, 2025, marks a unique convergence: it is both Easter Sunday and the date celebrated by cannabis enthusiasts as 4/20. Easter, a principal Christian festival commemorating the resurrection of Jesus, falls on this date in 2025 for both Western (Catholic/Protestant) and Eastern Orthodox churches, a relatively rare occurrence. Concurrently, April 20th is widely recognized as an unofficial holiday for marijuana culture, known as 4/20. Cannabis and the Bible Scholarly discussions and archaeological findings suggest a historical connection between cannabis and ancient religious practices referenced in the Bible 1 . Holy Anointing Oil : Some biblical scholars propose that cannabis, referred to by the Hebrew terms kaneh or kaneh bosm , was an ingredient in the holy anointing oil mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in Exodus 30:23 1 . This oil was used in sacred rituals within the Temple in Jerusalem 1 . Archaeological Evidence : Evidence supporting the ritualistic use of cannabis in ancient Israel emerged from a 2020 study of a shrine in Tel Arad. Researchers found burnt cannabis resin on one of two altars, alongside frankincense on the other, suggesting its use in religious ceremonies 1 . Shift in Significance : While potentially used early on, later biblical passages, such as Jeremiah 6:20, reject kaneh bosm as a foreign substance, indicating a shift away from its use as monotheistic practices solidified 1 . The interpretation of kaneh bosm as cannabis remains a subject of debate among scholars and religious authorities. The Origins of 4/20 The term "420" and its association with April 20th as a cannabis holiday have several origin theories, though one is most widely accepted. The Waldos : The most credible story traces back to the early 1970s with a group of students at San Rafael High School in California known as "the Waldos. ". They used the code "420" to refer to their plan to meet at 4:20 p.m. after school to search for an abandoned cannabis patch, using a map provided by a friend's brother 2 4 5 . Though they never found the patch, the term "420" became their code for marijuana and spread, partly through their connections with the band the Grateful Dead 2 4 . Other Theories : Less substantiated theories suggest "420" was a police code for marijuana or derived from Bob Dylan's song "Rainy Day Women #12 & 35" (as 12 multiplied by 35 equals 420) 2 4 5 7 8 . Easter and 4/20 Coincidence in 2025 The alignment of Easter Sunday and 4/20 on April 20, 2025, is a result of the lunar-calendar-based calculation for Easter and the fixed date for the informal cannabis holiday 3491112. This coincidence has led to some unique observations and events 4578 . Celebrations : Examples include "Easter nug hunts" replacing traditional egg hunts in Los Angeles, kosher-style THC gummies for Passover (which also overlapped) in New York, and "blaze and praise" drag brunches in Portland 4 5 7 8 . Industry Event : 4/20 also serves as a significant date for the cannabis industry, featuring promotions, festivals, and vendor gatherings 2 4 7 . Reference Materials for the Article

Summary: Most Minnesota cannabis business license applicants must enter into a labor peace agreement (LPA) with a bona fide labor organization as part of the application process. There are specific exceptions and employee thresholds, especially for microbusinesses. Who Must Register for a Labor Peace Agreement? General Rule: All cannabis business license applicants in Minnesota are required to submit an attestation, signed by a bona fide labor organization, stating that the applicant has entered into a labor peace agreement as part of the application process 65. Definition: A labor peace agreement is a contract between a cannabis business and a bona fide labor organization that, at minimum, prohibits the labor organization from engaging in picketing, work stoppages, or boycotts against the business 4 2 . Are There Employee Limits or Exceptions? Microbusinesses: Initial Application: Microbusiness applicants are not required to submit a labor peace agreement at the time of initial application 3 6. Renewal: Upon license renewal, if a microbusiness has ten or more full-time equivalent employees , it must submit an attestation signed by a bona fide labor organization stating that it has entered into a labor peace agreement 3 6. If fewer than ten employees: No labor peace agreement is required at renewal if the microbusiness has fewer than ten full-time equivalent employees 3 . All Other License Types: All other cannabis business license types (mezzobusiness, cultivator, manufacturer, retailer, wholesaler, transporter, testing facility, delivery service, medical cannabis combination business) must provide a labor peace agreement attestation as part of the application, regardless of employee count 65. Table: Labor Peace Agreement Requirements by License Type License Type LPA Required at Application? Employee Threshold for LPA at Renewal? Microbusiness No Yes, if 10+ FTE at renewal Mezzobusiness Yes N/A Cultivator Yes N/A Manufacturer Yes N/A Retailer Yes N/A Wholesaler Yes N/A Transporter Yes N/A Testing Facility Yes N/A Delivery Service Yes N/A Medical Cannabis Combination Yes N/A Key Takeaways Most applicants must register for a labor peace agreement as part of the application process. Microbusinesses are exempt at initial application but must comply at renewal if they reach 10 or more full-time equivalent employees. There are no other employee count thresholds for other license types; the LPA is required regardless of size. References : [OCM Qualified Applicant Guide]6 [OCM Application Guidance]5 [Minnesota Statutes 342.28] 3 [Minnesota Statutes 342.01]

For low-dose CBD and hemp products targeting the 420 market, retailers can implement several strategies to attract customers and differentiate themselves. Here are some in-store retail options and ideas tailored for this niche:  In-store 420 CDB/Hemp Promotions and Experiences  Product Bundles :  Create themed bundles of low-dose CBD edibles, tinctures, and topicals. For example, "Relaxation Kits" with CBD tea, gummies, and bath bombs [1][2] .  Offer Easter-themed bundles (since 420 coincides with Easter in 2025), such as CBD-infused chocolates or gummies shaped like bunnies [1] .  Sampling Stations :  Allow customers to sample low-dose CBD beverages or edibles in-store to encourage purchases [2] .  Educational Workshops :  Host sessions on the benefits of low-dose CBD for wellness, such as stress relief or sleep support. Partner with local health professionals or influencers to boost credibility [3] .  Loyalty Programs :  Reward frequent buyers with discounts on future purchases or exclusive access to new products [1][3] .  Live Events :  Organize events like live music, yoga sessions incorporating CBD products, or meet-and-greets with local hemp farmers [1] .  Targeted Product Strategies  Focus on Edibles and Beverages :  Low-dose edibles (e.g., gummies) and beverages are popular for casual users seeking wellness benefits without psychoactive effects [2][3] .  Highlight products with balanced THC:CBD ratios for a mild experience [4] .  Smokable Hemp Options :  Offer pre-packaged CBD-rich hemp pre-rolls or flower, which are gaining popularity for their convenience and familiarity [5] .  Topicals and Skincare :  Stock CBD-infused topicals like balms or creams for customers interested in non-ingestible options [6] .  Sustainability-Focused Products :  Highlight eco-friendly packaging and organic hemp-derived products to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers [3] .  Marketing Tactics   Personalized Recommendations :  Use AI tools or trained staff to suggest products based on customer preferences or health goals [3] .  Localized Promotions :  Offer discounts for travelers (e.g., “Show your hotel key for 10% off”) or partner with nearby businesses for cross-promotions [2] .  Social Media Campaigns :  Create buzz around your 420 deals through Instagram polls, countdowns, and influencer partnerships showcasing your low-dose offerings [2][3] .  Omnichannel Integration :  Combine in-store promotions with online pre-orders or delivery services to maximize convenience for customers [1][3] .  By focusing on wellness-oriented products, personalized experiences, and creative marketing, retailers can effectively cater to the growing demand for low-dose CBD and hemp products during the 420 season.  ⁂    https://flowhub.com/learn/420-holiday-retail-guide        https://indicaonline.com/blog/420-sale-and-marketing-ideas-for-dispensaries/        https://vende.sale/blog/top-trends-for-cannabis-retailers-in-2025          https://sparkplug.app/blog/2025-cannabis-industry-predictions-report    https://secretnature.com/blogs/cbd/25-smokable-hemp-predictions-for-2025    https://neurogan.com/blogs/news/best-hemp-oil

Get ready for the Lucky Leaf Expo, the premier cannabis convention coming to Minneapolis from February 28 - March 1, 2025! This must-attend event for cannabis professionals, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts will be held at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Here is a quick breakdown of where you can find us... Wednesday, Feb 26 Weekly canna club meetup at Earl Giles We will have several national partners & friends attending this event. We will be introducing them to the community, answering people's applications and ongoing business questions. Come out and meet up and learn some cool things. Thursday, Feb 27 8:00 - 4:00 PM: We will be @ Lucky Leaf's Pre-Show Crash Course assisting Carpfish Creative will be on the Retail Panel: Marketing and Branding @ 2:00 PM CST. 4:00 - 5:30 PM: OCM's Office Hours Series: Transporter and Delivery Service Application Guidance (Matt's Basement). 5:30 - 7:00 PM: Sota Cann Happy Hour https://sotacann.org/events 7:00 - 9:00 PM: Cultivating Connections with Sumain Roots & Sweed They will have a presentation around 7 PM Event Info & Registratio n Friday, Feb 28 8:00 - 4:00 PM: Lucky Leaf Conference and Expo Carpfish folks and a bunch of our national partners will be in attendance/sessions the entire day. RSVP above to catch a time to meet up or to get a hint on which sessions to attend. Event Info & Registration (CannaConnect saves 25%) Use code CannaConnect to save 25% 5:00 - 11:00 PM: Official Lucky Leaf After Party, Hosted by CannaConnect Free for Lucky Leaf attendees, pricing varies for others Event Info & Registration Event Info & Registration Saturday, March 1 Use code CannaConnect to save 25% SEE ALL EVENTS CARPFISH CREATIVE IS HOSTING and/or ATTENDING

The Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) is gearing up to accept cannabis business license applications from February 18 to March 14! Here's what you need to know: 📅 Mark your calendars: Feb 12: Final day to respond to OCM rulemaking changes Feb 14: Additional info available at mn.gov/ocm Feb 18: Application window opens March 14: Application window closes Carpfish Creative Upcoming Zoom Webinar Schedule: Zoom Meetup Q/A: Cannabis Banking & Funding II  (Feb 13, 1-2 PM CST) 🌱💼 Navigating the Minnesota Application & Licensure Process with Cannaspire  (Feb 20, 1-2 PM CST) SEE ALL CARPFISH EVENTS AND LUCKY LEAF INFO OCM Webinars: Don't miss the virtual office hours from the OCM to learn more: Feb 20: Microbusiness, Mezzobusiness, Retailer Feb 25: Testing, Manufacturer, Cultivator, Wholesaler Feb 27: Transporter, Delivery Servic e OCM CanRenew Grant Updates OCM will also host an informational webinar series to guide prospective CanRenew grant applicants through the request for proposals process.   CanRenew Grant Informational and Technical Assistance Session Friday, February 21, 2025, 10:30 a.m. - noon  Register Here   CanRenew Grant Informational and Technical Assistance Session Wednesday, March 5, 2025, 9-10:30 a.m.  Register Here   CanRenew Grant Informational and Technical Assistance Session Tuesday, March 11, 2025, 2-3:30 p.m.  Register Here   The request for proposals, application instructions, and eligibility requirements are available on the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management website: CanRenew Grant / Office of Cannabis Management   ---------------------- Updates on the Minnesota Application Process Applications open for various license types including microbusiness, cultivator, retailer, and more on February 18. Additional information and technical resources for applicants will be available at  mn.gov/ocm  beginning Feb. 14. Social equity applicants get 50% of capped licenses reserved: Mezzobusiness (50), Cultivator (25), Manufacturer (12), Retailer (75). Uncapped licenses are reviewed on a rolling basis 211 applicants from the previous preapproval process opted to be included in this cycle. Once the application window opens on the 18th, they will receive instructions from the OCM regarding completing requirements to provide a labor peace agreement, pass a background check, secure local zoning compliance and site registration approvals, and pass an inspection Previously Denies Applicants During the Preapproval Round If an applicant was denied during the preapproval process and opted to continue with the upcoming license round, OCM will provide more information, time, and flexibility to remedy the application's issues.  Lotteries for capped licenses are expected in May-June If a SEA applicant isn't selected during the first lottery, they will be entered into the second ----------------------------------- #MNCannabis #CannabisLicensing #GreenEntrepreneurs #MinnesotaCannabis

The link to the Minnesota OCM document can be found here: :

This Zoom meetup provides a comprehensive open Q&A web-based discussion for Minnesota cannabis entrepreneurs to gain a better understanding and manage risks specific to cannabis facilities. From security, government regulations (as of now), and location selection, even a few tips and tricks. Panel: Warren Harasz, PHD, Chief Compliance Office @ Cannaspire 610-933-5181 | wharasz@cannaspire.com Patrick Monagahan, Director of Sales/Development @ Cannasprie 561-665-0817 Mobile | pmonaghan@cannaspire.com Matt Carpentier "Carp", Owner/Advisor @ Carpfish Creative 952-324-6428 Mobile | carp@carpfishcreative.com AI Zoom Recap The meeting discussed the challenges and opportunities in Minnesota's cannabis industry, including the new rules coming into effect and the potential for a large number of applicants. The importance of location, personnel development, financial forecasting, and partnerships in the industry was also emphasized. Concerns were raised about the 70% rule, the potential for license holders' information to be made public, and the challenges of compliance and fines. Some next steps discussed... Attendees to contact their municipal officials to understand local regulations and fees for cannabis businesses. Interested applicants to prepare application materials, including business plans and financial projections, ahead of the February-March licensing window. Potential licensees to consider partnerships with other operators to differentiate their products in the market. Applicants to research and select cannabis-friendly banks for their business accounts. Interested parties to review the 122-page draft regulations and provide feedback on the state website by February 12th. Potential cultivators to evaluate options for indoor/outdoor cultivation based on the new 10,000 sq ft allowance for microbusinesses. Manufacturers to assess product strategies in light of the 70% THC cap rule. Attendees to review follow-up materials provided by Matt, including links to zoning information, salary overviews, and state feedback portals. Summary The meeting proceeded with Warren, the chief compliance officer at Cannaspire, presenting an overview of their work and the Minnesota market. Carpfish moderated the meeting, encouraging participants to ask questions and address them as they arose. The meeting was set to discuss the new rules coming into effect on Monday and the potential for a large number of applicants in the coming month. Minnesota Cannabis Industry Opportunities Warren, a consultant for cannabis businesses, discussed the opportunities and challenges in Minnesota's cannabis industry. He explained the different license types available, including retail dispensary, cultivation, wholesale transporter, and event organizer licenses. He highlighted the changes in the micro business regulations, which now may allow for 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor cultivation. He also discussed the potential for consumption lounges and the cannabis event organizer license, which allows on-site consumption with municipal approval. Warren emphasized the unique low overhead, and high revenue opportunities in the Minnesota market, such as farmers markets, grower competitions, and food trucks. He also mentioned the vertical license, which allows for 15,000 square feet of indoor canopy or one acre of outdoor cultivation, up to three retail locations, and the ability to manufacture hemp, adult use, and medical products within the state. Minnesota Cannabis Licensing Process Warren discussed the upcoming Minnesota cannabis licensing process, which is expected to begin once the new draft regulations are finalized. He highlighted the potential for cannabis grower grants and the importance of a well-prepared application, including an abbreviated business plan, capitalization table, security plan, and operational plan. He also noted that the application process will be a general lottery, with over 260 applicants rejected in the first round of social equity licenses. Warren's team, Cannaspire, successfully handled all 15 applications in the first social equity round, with all accepted. The timeline for the 2025 licensing cycle was also discussed, with the deadline to request a refund for the social equity round already passed. Location, Partnerships, and Business Planning Warren discussed the importance of location for businesses, particularly dispensaries, in Minnesota. He noted that the average dispensary nationally makes about $2 to $2.5 million, but this can vary greatly depending on location. He advised all attendees to make contact with municipal management to understand how many licenses will be given out and what the municipality's stance is on the number of dispensaries per 12,500 people. Warren also emphasized the importance of knowing one's partners and having a business plan. He suggested that attendees start contacting their municipalities to sway decisions at city council meetings. He also highlighted the need for facility development, cost management, and realistic timelines. Lastly, he stressed the importance of personnel development and establishing an org chart. Key Competencies in Cultivation and Market Warren discussed the importance of understanding key competencies in cultivation, such as the role of a master grower or director of cultivation. He also presented a sample personnel chart for a small manufacturing company and a pro forma startup requirement for a New Jersey-based clean room manufacturing facility. Warren emphasized the need to consider operating expenses, such as plant tags, seed to sale tracking software, RFID scanners, and employee training. He also highlighted the importance of knowing the market, including the number of people in the municipality, the distance to the nearest town that opted in, and the key business partners for the license type. Warren concluded by stressing the importance of a profitable business with a profitable pro forma, using an actual dispensary in New Jersey as an example. Securing Business License and Funding Warren emphasized the importance of having a solid financial forecast and business plan for investors and the state. He also highlighted the need for a realistic projection and seeking funding or help. Warren suggested working with an experienced person to obtain a business license quickly and avoid corrections. He also advised applying early to avoid website congestion and potential delays. Patrick confirmed this advice and asked if there was an advantage to applying early in the window. Warren agreed, stating that the sooner one applies, the sooner they can get reviewed and deal with any corrections or additional requests from the state. Q: Minnesota's 70% Rule and Manufacturing/Testing. Carpfish raised concerns about the 70% rule in the context of Minnesota's business environment, particularly in manufacturing. Warren explained that the rule is problematic because it limits the amount of manufactured goods that can be produced, especially for distillate extraction which often exceeds 90% THC. He suggested that the rule might be revised before finalization. Patrick added that Ohio has a similar rule and it's unclear whether it applies to all processes or just the final product. Q: Aaron asked about the benefits of reapplying for a social equity round after being denied, to which Patrick responded that it might be beneficial to reapply rather than going for a general license. Capped License Value and Adjustments Warren and Patrick discussed the potential value of obtaining a capped license for a cannabis business. Warren suggested that having a capped license could increase the perceived value of a company, making it more attractive to investors. He also advised Aaron, who was pursuing a micro business license, to consider the general licensing round instead of re-verifying for social equity due to the time and effort involved. Warren also clarified that if a company raises more funds in the future, adjustments to the cap can be made, but this would depend on the legal structure of the deal. Q: Carpfish raised a question about the specifications for a combination of indoor and outdoor grow, which was left unanswered. Cannabis Cultivation Strategies and Challenges Warren discussed the limitations and potential strategies for cannabis cultivation in different states, particularly New York and Minnesota. He suggested that states might allow only one type of cultivation at a time, with the possibility of transitioning between outdoor and indoor cultivation. He also mentioned the challenges of product delays and the potential for medical licensees to dominate the market in Minnesota. Carpfish added that there is a period for public feedback on the rules until February 12th, and encouraged people to use this opportunity to formulate responses. Cannabis Industry Partnerships and Challenges Warren discussed the importance of partnerships and unique selling points in the cannabis industry, emphasizing the need for boutique micro businesses to stand out from larger operators. He also highlighted the challenges faced by reservations in the industry, such as compliance with state regulations. Patrick addressed questions about product volume and the potential for license holders' information to be made public. Warren and Carpfish agreed on the importance of maintaining quality and niche markets in the industry. The conversation ended with a discussion on the number of potential applicants for licenses and the importance of checking with municipalities for local rules and fees. Minnesota Cannabis Banking and Rules The meeting discussed banking options and requirements for cannabis businesses in Minnesota. Warren advised looking into fees, and requirements like providing a website and business plan to banks and building a relationship with the banker. He mentioned challenges around federal regulations like IRS reporting. Carpfish noted the recent release of rules by the state regulator, which expanded security requirements but lacked details on payments and payroll. There is frustration that the final rules will come after the application window closes. The THC potency limit of 70% is concerning for some manufacturers dealing in vape products. The two major medical manufacturers just announced expansion plans, positioning them well for the new market. Cannabis Operators, Compliance, and Equity Carpfish and Patrick discussed the importance of forming a community for cannabis operators, drawing from their experiences in Missouri. They also discussed the challenges of compliance and fines, emphasizing the need for clear rules. Patrick expressed concern about the 70% rule in Ohio and its potential impact on Minnesota's draft rules. Carpfish mentioned the phased rollout of equity and the potential impact on farmers. They also discussed the complexity of the rules, with Carpfish noting that the state site allows for public feedback. The conversation ended with Carpfish offering to provide links to relevant information and resources, and the attendees expressing gratitude for the session.