CANNABIS GROWER TRAINING PROGRAM
Training, business development, and funding support to help you start and grow a regulated cannabis business.Â
Applications close May 22, 2026.
Limited to 10 participants.Â
To apply to be a part of this program,
This is not just a training program.
This is a structured pathway designed to help participants move from interest to business ownership in the legal cannabis industry.
What You’ll Gain
âś“ Hands-on cannabis cultivation training.
âś“ Step-by-step business plan development.
âś“ Licensing and compliance guidance.Â
âś“ Financial skills and business readiness.
âś“ Access to funding opportunities
(up to $75,000+).
Program Expectations
This is a selective and structured program. Only 10 participants will be selected.
âś“Â Attendance and participation are required.
âś“ Â Participants will complete a business plan.
âś“ Participants will work toward cannabis licensing.
Who Should Apply
This program is designed for individuals who are interested in starting or growing a cannabis cultivation business.
•  Tribal or local community members.
•  Entrepreneurs ready to commit to a structured program.
•  Willing to complete training, assignments, and business planning.
Program Details
Participants who complete the program and pursue licensing may be eligible to apply for cannabis business financing. The Cannabis Farmer Loan amounts range from $2,500 up to $75,000. Loans over $50,000 require a 1:1 match from another funding source, creating the potential for up to $150,000 in total project funding.
Program Dates: June 8 – Sept. 25, 2026
Schedule: Mon–Thurs, 10–12 hours per week
Location:Â (TBD) Cass Lake, MN
Complete your application by 5/22/2026
Participants will be elected on 5/30/2026Â
Apply to Be One of the 10 Selected
QUESTIONS?
Do you have questions, concerns or need assistance with the application? Contact Sharon James at 218-407-2071 or [email protected]
FAQs
Yes. This program is designed to support individuals at different starting points, including those new to cannabis or business ownership.
.
No. Tribal membership is not required. This program is open to individuals living within 25-miles of Cass Lake, MN.Â
A total of 10 participants will be selected for this cohort.
This is a selective program limited to 10 participants. Applications are reviewed based on readiness, commitment, and alignment with the program goals.
Strong applicants demonstrate:
- Anyone interested in the cannabis industry.
- Willingness to commit to the full program.
- Readiness to complete assignments and planning work.
- Alignment with the program’s community and economic development goals.
If your availability changes after being selected, please notify the program team as soon as possible. Due to the limited number of spots, your place may be offered to another applicant.
If you need assistance with the application, support may be available. Contact Sharon James at 218-407-2071 or [email protected]
No. You do not need to have land or a cultivation site secured before applying. The program will help you understand what is required and how to plan for it.
No. Training-related materials and instruction will be provided as part of the program. Additional business-related investments will be discussed as part of your planning process.
Participants who complete the program will have a business plan, a stronger understanding of the licensing process, and the ability to pursue financing opportunities if they choose to move forward.
This is a structured training program designed to prepare participants to enter the regulated cannabis industry. The program includes hands-on cultivation training, business planning, licensing guidance, and financial preparation.
This program prepares participants to operate within the legal, regulated cannabis industry, including understanding licensing requirements, compliance standards, and business responsibilities set by the State and/or Tribal authorities.
This activity is made possible in part by a grant from the State of Minnesota through the CanGrow program, administered by the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management, with funds appropriated by the Minnesota State Legislature.
