Important Deadlines
Correction: We published in our blog earlier this week that all applicants looking to apply in Maryland had until November 7th to verify their social equity status. However, out-of-state residents interested in applying for this round should fill out a Cannabis Business Licensing Interest Form by November 3rd. Note: It may already be too late to verify, per Section 3 of the official Social Equity Verification Guidance released by MCA. Refer to State guidance for research. Correction Source: https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Documents/2023%20Social%20Equity%20Verification/Verification%20Step-by-Step%20Guide_ENG.pdf
Introduction
As Maryland stands on the cusp of its inaugural cannabis business licensing initiative, the landscape is set to shift dramatically to rectify historical disparities in the industry. This first round of applications is uniquely reserved for Social Equity (SE) applicants who meet the strict criteria. For those navigating this complex terrain, guidance is paramount. This article details some quickly approaching pre-application key dates and requirements.
For applicants seeking expert assistance in this endeavor, CannManage, with its extensive track record of successfully assisting with licensing applications across 17 states, is poised to offer invaluable support. CEO Beth Myers is a seasoned cannabis professional with over 15 years of specialized expertise as a cannabis technical writer. CannManage is committed to aiding all potential SE applicants—irrespective of budget—to traverse this demanding process. Contact us and set up a free Vision Intake consultation call to see how we can assist.
No SE Verification = You Will NOT Be Eligible To Apply For This Round!
Initial Steps
Tap here for a link to fill out this Cannabis Business Licensing Interest Form. You’ll receive an access link shortly.
Provide Personal Details: Current Address, DOB, Full Name, Phone, SSN/ITIN
Ensure your verification application is done promptly for certification.
After submission, you’ll receive an access link via email from [email protected] to enter the SE Verification Portal.
Social Equity Verification Portal
One of these criteria must be met to verify eligibility and enter the application portal.
Criteria 1: Lived in a Disproportionately Impacted Area (DIA) for 5 of the last 10 years (2014-2023)- Does Not Have To Be Consecutive
Verify Residency Using These Requirements
Provide: TWO DOCUMENTS validating Your Full Address, Residence Type (Lease/Rent, Own, Public Housing), and Move-in and Out Dates.
Proof: (provide 2 documents per address listed):
Copy of Lease
Court Documents
Credit Card Statements
Drivers License/Gov’t Issued ID (featuring an address)
Federal or State Tax Return
Housing Authority Records
Mortgage Loan
Utility Bill
W-2/1099
Don’t Have Any of These Documents?
Provide: Contact Information for Non-Family Members Who Can Confirm Your Address
Proof: Letter From A Landlord, Leasing Company, or Close Neighbor
Criteria 2: Attended a Public School or College In DIA 5 or 2+ Years
Verify Eligibility Through Educational History
If a public school in a disproportionately impacted area for 5+ years OR any of these universities for 2+ years was attended, the applicant is eligible:
Bowie State
Coppin State
Morgan State
University of Baltimore
University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Washington Adventist
Provide
School Name
Location
Dates Attended
Major
Degree Type
Graduation Date
Proof: School transcripts or enrollment documents.
Additional Required Documents – Submit Online
- Background Investigation Disclosure
- Acknowledgment and Authorization for Background Investigation
How Will I Know If I’ve Been Verified?
To proceed with an application, you must receive the final confirmation of your social equity eligibility. This will be emailed with a link to access your PDF report, with the term “CLEAR” in the top section.
Contact CannManage For Assistance
Rigorous deadlines and intricate requirements mark the pathway to acquiring a cannabis business license in Maryland. Their importance cannot be understated; missing a deadline can close the door to this round of applications. Armed with the knowledge outlined here and bolstered by the expertise of organizations like CannManage, qualifying individuals have a genuine opportunity to benefit from Maryland’s groundbreaking Social Equity initiative. As the cannabis industry evolves, this inaugural round is a testament to Maryland’s commitment to fostering equity. For applicants seeking to ensure accuracy during this process, reaching out to CannManage can assure experienced guidance at this crucial juncture.
Disclaimer: CannManage is operated by writers passionate about cannabis culture, policy, and technical knowledge. We are a small, female-owned company that supplies research to ensure your hands are free to strategize with your accountant, counsel, real estate, and security team during the application process. We are not here to give legal, financial, or medical advice. Even the MCA will not give legal advice to you. All factual information was taken directly from the Maryland Cannabis Administration’s website.
