The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (“NJEDA”) announced that applications for the Cannabis Business Development (“CBD”) Grant Program will officially open on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. This program provides reimbursement funding of up to seventy-five thousand dollars ($75,000) for eligible recreational cannabis businesses in New Jersey. The purpose of the grant is to assist operators in covering the substantial costs associated with establishing, maintaining, and operating a compliant cannabis business within the state.
This funding opportunity is highly competitive. Applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, and only fully completed applications will be considered for review. While the NJEDA may, at its sole discretion, allow applicants to cure or clarify portions of their submissions, applicants will have only ten (10) business days to respond to such requests. Incomplete or ineligible applications may also be declined. . For this reason, it is imperative for prospective applicants to prepare all materials prior to the opening date.
At Mandelbaum Barrett P.C., we successfully secured NJEDA grants in previous grant funding rounds. Our experience with previous NJEDA grants provides us with an in-depth understanding of the process, eligibility requirements, and review standards. We are well-positioned to guide applicants through every stage of the submission, ensuring that each element of the application meets NJEDA’s compliance and documentation expectations.
Applicants for the CBD Grant must hold a valid annual recreational license issued by the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (“CRC”). Proof of licensure must be demonstrated by uploading the CRC’s official digital license card at the time of application. Conditional licenses and conversion letters are not acceptable forms of documentation.
Each applicant also must provide a valid New Jersey tax clearance certificate issued in the applicant’s name, with the NJEDA identified as the selected agency. Certificates directed to other agencies, such as the Department of Environmental Protection, must be corrected before submission. Businesses also are required to provide proof of formation in the State of New Jersey. Acceptable documentation includes a Certificate of Formation for limited liability companies, a Certificate of Incorporation for corporations, or a Certificate of Trade Name for sole proprietorships. Out-of-state businesses not registered in New Jersey are not eligible for this program.
Applicants seeking reimbursement for rent must submit a fully executed and signed lease agreement along with a completed NJEDA Landlord Certification Form. In addition, each application must include a completed NJEDA Budget Template demonstrating a minimum of seventy-five thousand dollars in eligible expenses incurred within the thirty-six months preceding the date of application. Each expense listed must be supported by appropriate documentation, such as invoices, purchase orders, or quotes, along with verifiable proof of payment. Acceptable proof of payment includes cancelled checks, bank statements, or credit card statements.
Applicants must be in good standing with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, the Division of Taxation, the CRC, and the Department of Environmental Protection. Multi-state operators are not eligible to participate in this grant program. The applicant must also certify that the business will remain open, in good standing, and operating at the designated location for at least two years after receiving the grant award. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in recapture of funds.
The NJEDA will begin reviewing applications immediately after the submission portal opens. Applications that are complete at the time of submission will receive priority over those that require additional documentation or clarification, which are subject to NJEDA discretion. Given the competitive nature of this program and the limited availability of funds, early submission of a fully prepared application is essential.
The Cannabis Business Development Grant represents a significant opportunity for licensed cannabis operators in New Jersey to strengthen their financial position and invest in long-term business sustainability. Our firm has a proven record of success in navigating the NJEDA’s application processes and remains committed to helping cannabis entrepreneurs secure critical funding to grow their operations in compliance with state regulations.
Applicants who wish to pursue this opportunity are encouraged to contact Joshua Bauchner or Natalie Diaz as soon as possible for assistance in reviewing eligibility, preparing documentation, and submitting a complete application package when the portal opens on Thursday, November 13 at 10:00 a.m.
At Mandelbaum Barrett PC, our cannabis attorneys provide comprehensive legal services to businesses, professionals, and investors in the cannabis, hemp, and psychedelics industries. With a deep understanding of the evolving regulatory landscape, we help clients navigate complex licensing, compliance, corporate structuring, intellectual property, and litigation matters.
Our Cannabis, Hemp & Psychedelics practice group is at the forefront of industry changes, offering strategic legal solutions tailored to the unique needs of businesses in this fast-growing space. Whether you are launching a startup, expanding operations, or facing legal challenges, our attorneys are here to help.