Legal recreational cannabis became a reality in Minnesota in 2023, but nearly two and a half years later, the path for cannabis businesses to begin selling has been rocky. As of August 2025, licenses for adult-use cannabis shops are only now being granted, leaving entrepreneurs frustrated by delays that have kept the market in limbo.
"We're in a strange gray area," said Sam Ovind, store manager at Superior Cannabis Company in Duluth. "It's legal you can grow it, smoke it, and possess it but you haven't been able to buy it in stores for years." His shop, despite its name, doesn't actually sell cannabis. Instead, it offers edibles, drinks, and tinctures while waiting for the chance to join the licensed market. Like many others, Superior Cannabis Company sat out the first round of applications but plans to pursue a license once the process stabilizes.
Two local dispensaries confirmed they were licensed, but neither had products available to customers one due to supply shortages, the other still tied up in state delays. Meanwhile, Tribal Nations across Minnesota have moved ahead more smoothly. The Fond Du Lac Band, for instance, opened its tribally owned shop in May, giving them a head start over non-tribal competitors.
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