NEW YORK (WBNG) — The New York State Office of Cannabis Management, or OCM, and the Empire State Development, ESD, launched a program to help licensed dispensary owners cover critical startup costs.

The Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary, or CAURD, Grant Program is a $5 million program that will provide grants of up to $30,000 per awardee to assist with expenses such as commercial rent, security equipment, point-of-sale systems, inventory tracking and regulatory compliance improvements.

“The CAURD Grant Program is a crucial step in supporting New York’s legal cannabis entrepreneurs as they establish and expand their businesses,” said New York State Office of Cannabis Management Acting Executive Director Felicia A.B. Reid. “By providing financial assistance for essential startup costs, we are reinforcing our commitment to an equitable and thriving cannabis market.”

Officials said the grant program is open to all active, final CAURD license holders who meet the eligibility requirements set forth by the New York State Office of Cannabis Management.

To qualify, applicants must have a business bank account matching the name of their CAURD license, be incorporated to operate in New York State, and be in full compliance with all state and local cannabis regulations.

For more information on the program, visit this link or call 1-855-933-5556.

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