The New York State Office of Cannabis Management continues its resource effort launching a new grant application for CAURD licensees. According to the OCM site all business holding Conditional Adult Use Retail Dispensary (CAURD) liscences are eligible to apply so long as they are OCM compliant.
The CAURD Grant Program in New York aims to assist licensed cannabis retail dispensaries with startup expenses for operating in the state. This funding helps cover essential costs such as rent, improvements to the retail space, security equipment, point-of-sale systems, inventory management, and insurance. Empire State Development, through a contract with FORWARD, is responsible for administering the program, which awards grants until the $5 million allocated is used up.
Eligibility is open to businesses that hold a valid CAURD license from the New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), are in compliance with state laws, and have a business bank account matching the license holder’s name. Each business can receive one grant, and applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Grants can be up to $30,000, provided there are at least $10,000 in eligible expenses. Reimbursements will be made based on receipts for qualifying expenses, and funds will be given through a one-time ACH payment. Eligible expenses include rent, compliance-related improvements, point-of-sale and security systems, storage and transportation equipment, insurance, and other OCM-approved costs. Expenses can be reimbursed starting from the date the CAURD license was issued.
Applications will open on March 4, 2025, and interested businesses should monitor the OCM website for further updates. Questions can be directed to FORWARD support.
