New York Approves 52 More Marijuana Licenses, Total Now at 1,851
The new licenses include 17 for retail dispensaries, 23 for processors, six for microbusinesses, five for distributors, and one for a cultivator. Two new Registered Organizations were also approved, supporting growth in the state’s medical marijuana program. With these additions, New York has now issued 1,851 adult-use licenses statewide. Of the latest batch, 62% went to Social and Economic Equity (SEE) applicants. Minority- and women-owned businesses each accounted for 56% of the newly approved licenses.
“We’re encouraged by the steady pace of application reviews and the number of new entrepreneurs joining the market,” said Acting OCM Director Felicia A.B. Reid. “We’re working with stakeholders to ensure long-term, sustainable success.”
During the meeting, the Office of Cannabis Management reminded licensed cultivators that the deadline to submit their first PowerScore energy and water usage report is August 31. PowerScore is a free tracking platform that helps growers align with the state’s climate goals under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.
The Board also approved an annual report from a licensed cannabis research entity, affirming that the licensee met all standards to continue its work.
As of now, 431 legal marijuana dispensaries are open across New York. The adult-use market is expected to surpass $1 billion in sales by the end of the year, with total retail sales nearing $2 billion since legalization took effect.
Of all adult-use licenses awarded so far, 56% have gone to SEE applicants. That includes 14% to those from disproportionately impacted communities, 47% to minority-owned businesses, 56% to women-owned businesses, and 7% each to distressed farmers and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses.
The Office is also seeking feedback through its newly launched Technical Assistance and Incubation Survey, aimed at identifying support gaps in education, training, and business incubation services for marijuana operators.