Maryland’s Office of Social Equity (OSE) is set to host “From Seed to Success” Cannabis Business Vendor Fair on June 6, 2025, aiming to seamlessly integrate the state’s burgeoning cannabis industry with traditional business sectors. This premier event underscores Maryland’s commitment to an equity-focused approach, linking its 191 Social Equity Cannabis Licensees with a diverse array of local vendors and service providers.

Audrey Johnson, Executive Director of the OSE, emphasized the broader impact of this initiative. “The 191 social equity licensees awarded to date represent more than just new businesses—they symbolize Maryland’s commitment to repairing historical inequities while driving economic growth,” said Johnson. She added that the fair is designed to create an ecosystem where cannabis businesses can flourish efficiently, simultaneously opening up significant opportunities for established Maryland businesses to engage with this emerging market.

Hosted in collaboration with MDOT’s Office of Minority Business Enterprise (OMBE) at the Marriott BWI, the fair will run from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. It will serve as a crucial bridge for licensees, who are currently navigating the 18-month journey from receiving their license to market entry, to access essential services. These include critical components such as construction, legal and compliance support, accounting, security, technology, real estate, and waste management.

A dedicated “Government Row” will further enhance the event, offering attendees direct access to representatives from key state agencies. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with officials from the Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA), State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT), Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis Commission (ATCC), MDOT’s Office of Minority Business Enterprise (OMBE), the Department of Commerce (COMM), and the Office of the Comptroller (COMP).

Paul J. Wiedefeld, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Transportation, highlighted the strategic importance of adapting MDOT’s successful business connection model to support the cannabis sector. “By creating direct pathways between social equity licensees and qualified service providers, we’re fulfilling our shared commitment to building an inclusive economy,” Wiedefeld stated, affirming the collaborative effort to foster growth across diverse business communities.

This vendor fair is a complementary component of the OSE’s comprehensive economic strategy, which includes the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund (CRRF). With over $80 million already allocated to Maryland communities historically impacted by cannabis prohibition, the CRRF demonstrates a deep commitment to economic justice. The “From Seed to Success” event extends this commitment by cultivating business opportunities throughout the entire cannabis ecosystem, from licensee operations to service provider partnerships.

Coming at a critical juncture as licensees prepare for operational deadlines, the fair reinforces the Office of Social Equity’s dedication to fostering an environment where both cannabis businesses and Maryland vendors can achieve mutual success and growth. Businesses interested in participating are encouraged to submit their interest by May 30th via the OSE 2025 Vendor Fair Interest Form.

The Office of Social Equity works to ensure diverse participation in Maryland’s cannabis market, providing vital resources and support for social equity applicants and licensees, and addressing the lasting impacts of past cannabis prohibition through strategic programming, technical assistance, and community engagement.