Certification included when you enroll
in the online ©Master of Cannabis Program!
How to Open a
Cannabis Business 
Get your feet wet in the cannabis industry! How to Open a Cannabis Business Certificate is included when you enroll in the Master of Cannabis Program. It includes informative lessons and videos that provide in-depth information about business setup, operations, and employee acquisition in several industry sectors. Solidify your entrepreneurial plans and learn how to serve cannabis businesses as an ancillary professional. This is just one of 10 CTU certificates you will earn to prove your newfound credentials.
Gain the skills and knowledge needed to set up and operate a cannabis cultivation, cooking, extraction, dispensary, or ancillary business.
How to Start Cannabis Business Course FAQs
Is this cannabis college accredited?
Yes! We are the only cannabis education school in the world that has an internationally recognized accreditation provided by ANSI/IACET.
Is this how to start a cannabis business training course included in the Master of Cannabis Program?
Yes! This how to start a cannabis business certification, and 9 other certificates are included in the Master of Cannabis Program.
Is this how to start a cannabis business course online or in person?
The how to start a cannabis business course is 100% online. You can make your own schedule, and work from any device!
How long does it take to complete the Master of Cannabis Program?
Complete the required work in as little as 7 days (42 hrs of required content), or take your time (24 weeks of access) and enjoy hundreds of hours of how-to tutorials, resources, and 8 Ed Rosenthal e-books. There are no set class times and no homework, and anyone 18+ can enroll. If you need more time in the program it is easy to extend your access!
What common questions about opening a cannabis business will I get answers from taking this online course?
- What are the different types of cannabis businesses I can start?
- What are the legal requirements for starting a cannabis business?
- How do I obtain the necessary licenses and permits for a cannabis business?
- What are the startup costs for opening a cannabis business?
- How can I secure funding for my cannabis business?
- What type of location is best for a cannabis business?
- What zoning laws and regulations must I comply with?
- How do I create a business plan for a cannabis business?
- What are the key factors in choosing suppliers and partners for my cannabis business?
- How do I ensure compliance with state and local cannabis laws?
- What kind of security measures are required for a cannabis business?
- How do I manage inventory and track sales in a cannabis business?
- What are the best practices for hiring and training staff in the cannabis industry?
- How can I effectively market my cannabis business?
- What are the key challenges in operating a cannabis business?
- How do I create a unique brand and customer experience in the cannabis industry?
- What software and technology do I need to run a cannabis business?
- How do I handle banking and financial transactions in the cannabis industry?
- What insurance coverage is necessary for a cannabis business?
- How do I stay updated on changes in cannabis laws and regulations?
- What are the most common mistakes to avoid when starting a cannabis business?
- How can I scale my cannabis business for growth?
- What are the best practices for maintaining compliance with cannabis regulations?
- How do I navigate the challenges of marketing and advertising in the cannabis industry?
- What resources and support are available for cannabis entrepreneurs?
Learn the answers to these commonly asked questions about starting a cannabis business and much more!
Will this help me if I live in a state without cannabis businesses?
Our how to start a cannabis business course covers a wide range of cannabis-related business opportunities, including those that do not involve directly handling the cannabis plant. These include:
- Ancillary Services: Marketing, legal, consulting, security, and technology services tailored to the cannabis industry.
- Hemp Products: Businesses focusing on hemp-derived products, which often face different regulations than THC-containing products.
- Cannabis Education: Creating educational platforms, content creation, and training services for consumers and industry professionals.
- Equipment and Supplies: Providing specialized equipment and supplies for cultivation, extraction, or retail operations.
- Packaging and Labeling: Developing compliant and innovative packaging solutions for cannabis products.
Legal Awareness and Adaptability
- Understanding Evolving Laws: Our course emphasizes the importance of staying updated on cannabis laws, which are constantly changing. You’ll learn how to track and adapt to legal changes in your region.
- Compliance Training: We provide detailed information on compliance and regulatory requirements, helping you navigate complex legal landscapes.
- Risk Management: Learn how to identify and manage risks associated with legal compliance, ensuring your business remains lawful and sustainable.
Practical Business Skills
- Business Planning: Gain skills in creating robust business plans tailored to various cannabis industry sectors.
Marketing Strategies: Learn effective marketing and branding strategies, even in regions with strict advertising regulations. - Operational Efficiency: Understand best practices for managing operations, logistics, and supply chains in the cannabis industry.
- Financial Management: Get insights into financial planning, securing funding, and managing finances specific to cannabis businesses.
If I had someone that wanted to work for me and they had a certificate from CTU…that would mean a lot more to me than a candidate that didn’t have a similar certificate.
– Dr. Phil DiGiacomo
Medical Marijuana Physician
How to Open a Cannabis Business Topics
Cannabis Basics
What Is Cannabis?
Cannabis has been described as a weed, as a recreational drug, and as the latest craze in medical treatment. But what actually is it? This lesson will cover the origins of the cannabis plant and tell you what you need to know about cannabis strains and cultivars. The lesson covers these topics:
- Cannabis Plant Overview, including Origins of Cannabis,
Cannabis Cultivars, Cannabis Strains, Descriptions of Cannabis Sativa, Cannabis Indica, Hybrids, and Cannabis Ruderalis, Parts of the Cannabis Plant, Cannabis Seeds, Hemp Fiber, Cannabis Flowers, Cannabis Buds, Cannabis Nugs, and Cannabis Trichomes - The Difference Between Cannabis and Hemp
- Structure, Life Cycle, and Reproduction System of Cannabis Plants
- Introduction to the Endocannabinoid System
Cannabis Cultivars, Cannabis Strains, Descriptions of Cannabis Sativa, Cannabis Indica, Hybrids, and Cannabis Ruderalis, Parts of the Cannabis Plant, Cannabis Seeds, Hemp Fiber, Cannabis Flowers, Cannabis Buds, Cannabis Nugs, and Cannabis TrichomesComponents of Cannabis
A deep dive into compounds like THC, CBD, terpenes, and other components in cannabis that can have an impact on patients. The lesson covers these topics:
- The Primary Chemical Compounds in Cannabis, including Terpenes and Cannabinoids
- Entourage Effects of Cannabis Components
- Reasons to Use Cannabis Strains with THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, CBC, THCV, Beta Caryophyllene, Myrcene, Humulene, Alpha Pinene, Limonene, and Linalool
- Reasons to Avoid Cannabis Strains with THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, CBC, THCV, Beta Caryophyllene, Myrcene, Humulene, Alpha Pinene, Limonene, and Linalool
- THC Use with a Suppressed Endocannabinoid System (ECS), High Blood Pressure, Anxiety, Memory Issues
- Psychoactive Effects of THC, CBN, and THCV
- Dosing with THC, including Biphasic Effects
- THC Benefits for Mental State, the Nervous System, Inflammation, Cancer, Digestion, the Circulatory System, and Intraocular Pressure
- CBD Effects on Endocannabinoid Production and as a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)
- CBD Interaction with Chemotherapy, 5-HT1A Receptors, TRPV1-2 Vanilloid Receptors, AEA, Cytochrome P450 (CYP) Enzymes, and Drug Metabolization
- CBD Health Benefits for Blood Pressure, Healing the Gut, Epilepsy, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Diabetes, Appetite, Anxiety (Including THC-Induced Anxiety), Eating Disorders, Mental States, the Nervous System, Inflammation, Cancer, Digestion, Circulation, Skin Treatments, and Bone Growth
- CBN Medical Benefits for Sleep, Glaucoma, the Nervous System, Inflammation, Cancer, Appetite, Bone Growth, and the Eyes
- Health benefits of the Primary Cannabinoid CBG for Blood Pressure, Memory, Glaucoma, Inflammation, Mental Effects, the Nervous System, Cancer, IBS, Appetite, the Circulatory System, Psoriasis, and Bone Growth
- Health Benefits of CBC for Depression, Anxiety, Pain, Alzheimer’s Disease, Inflammation, Cancer, Acne
- Health Benefits of THCV for the Immune System, Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Motor Control, Diabetes, Anxiety, Energy, Appetite Suppression, Epilepsy, Inflammation, and Bone Growth
- Monoterpenes and Sesquiterpenes
- The Presence of Terpenes in Cannabis Strains
- Terpenes and Infections (including MRSA)
- Beta Caryophyllene in Haze, Girl Scout Cookies, Skywalker OG, and Chem Dawg Strains
- Health Benefits of Beta Caryophyllene for Alcohol Addiction, Autoimmune Disorder, the Kidneys, Sleep Disorders, Reducing Cravings, Depression, as a Local Anesthetic, Depression, Inflammation, Cancer, the Digestive System, and IBS
- Myrcene in Indica Strains Like White Widow, Himalayan Gold, and Jack Herer
- Medicinal Benefits of Myrcene for Diabetes, Insomnia, Transdermal Absorption, Inflammation, Depression, Pain, and Cancer
- Alpha Pinene in Jack Herer Strain
- Alpha Pinene in Blue Dream, Trainwreck, Island Sweet Skunk, Romulan, Strawberry Cough, and Bubba Kush Strains
- Health Benefits of Alpha Pinene for Asthma, Alertness, Short-Term Memory, Pain, Inflammation, Cancer, and as a Bronchodilator
- Humulene in White Widow, Headband, and Sour Diesel Strains
- Medical Benefits of Humulene for Appetite, Transdermal Absorption, Inflammation, Cancer, and Pain
- Limonene in Super Lemon Haze, Pineapple Express, and Sweet Tangerine Strains
- Limonene Effects on A(2A) Receptors and Dopamine
- Health Benefits of Limonene for Anxiety, Depression, Mood, Absorption, Inflammation, Cancer, Gallstones, GER, and Acid Reflux
- Linalool in Lavender, Diamond Girl, and LA Confidential Strains
- Medicinal Benefits of Linalool for Nausea, Sleep, Anxiety, Depression, Pain, Seizures, Breast Cancer, Inflammation, and Acne
- Raphael Mechoulam and S. Ben-Shabbat’s Entourage Effect Research with Full Spectrum Medical Cannabis and Whole Plant Cannabis Medicine
- CBD and THC Interaction and Ratios
- Cannabis Entourage Effects on Anxiety, Blood Pressure, Appetite, Memory, Attention, Insomnia, Sleep, and Addiction
- Cannabis Strains that Reduce Cravings, Increase Alertness, Improve Circulation, and Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Cannabis Entourage Effects for Acne, Alzheimer’s Disease, Reducing Anxiety, Autoimmune Disorders, Lowering Blood Pressure, Mending Broken Bones, Cancer, Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Ulcers, Depression, Diabetes, Epilepsy, Glaucoma, Inflammation, Muscle Spasms, Nausea, Neurological Damage, Pain Relief, Sleep, and Insomnia
- Synthetic Cannabis and THC Analogs (like Spice and K2) Used as Pharmaceuticals, as Recreational Drugs, and for Research on Tumors, Inflammation, and Blood Flow
Cannabis Products
The cannabis industry is growing exponentially. With growth comes a variety of new products—so many, in fact, that choosing the right one can be confusing to both new and experienced users. This lesson breaks down the most common products available at dispensaries. The lesson covers these topics:
- Differences between Cannabis Products, including Cannabinoid Content, Potency, Activation (Raw vs. Decarboxylated), Classification based on Strain Names or Cultivars, Classification Based on Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid, Terpene Content
- CBD:THC Ratio, THC-Dominant Products, CBD-Dominant Products, Hemp Products, 1:1 CBD:THC Ratios, CBD Products
- How Potency is Shown on Labels for Cannabis Flower, Cannabis Concentrates, and Edibles, including Percentages and Number of Milligrams
- Raw Cannabinoids, including THCA, CBDA, and Non-Activated Products
- How to Read Cannabis Product Labels, including Tracking and Regulatory Information, Effects, Cannabinoid Content, Activation Status, Potency, Contaminants, Nutrition Information, and Terpene Content
- Products Sold at Dispensaries, including Flowers, Concentrates, Edibles, Topicals, Transdermals, and Other Infused Products
- How to Find High Quality Top Shelf Bulk Cannabis Flowers, Buds, Joints, Blunts, Pre-Rolls, and Shake including Bud Size and Potential Cannabis Contaminants, Pesticides, Mold, and Seeds
- Characteristics of Low Quality Cannabis, including Scent, Color, Finger Feel, Throat Feel
- Cannabis Flower Consumption Methods, including Smoking and Vaporizing
- Input Materials for Cannabis Extracts, including Flash-Frozen Fresh Plants, Dried Cannabis Flowers, Dried Cannabis Trim, and Hemp
- Cannabis Extraction Methods, including Solventless Concentrates (Kief, Bubble Hash, Pressed Hashish, Rosin) and Solvent-Based Extracts (RSO, BHO, PHO, Ethanol Extracts, CO2 Oil, Distillate, Isolate, Water-Soluble Isolate, Nano-Isolate)
- Cannabis Concentrate Product Consistencies, including Budder, Shatter, Crumble, Wax, Live Resin, Sugar, Rocks and Sauce, and Vape Cartridges
- How Cannabis Edibles Work, including LDL Delivery, Liver Metabolites, Dosing, Digestive System Issues, and Sublingual Delivery
- Ingredients in Cannabis Edibles, including Flower Infusions in Oil, Distillates, Isolates, Full-Spectrum Extracts, Broad-Spectrum Extracts, Non-Cannabis Ingredients, and Allergens
- Differences between Full-Spectrum cannabis oil, Broad-Spectrum hemp oil, Cannabis Distillates, Isolates, and Nano-Isolates
- Cannabis Edibles, including Cannabis-Infused Oils, Cannabis Tinctures, Raw Cannabis Tinctures, Cannabis-Infused Capsules, Cannabis-Infused Foods, Gummies, Hard Candies, Savory Edibles Cookies, Brownies, Cannabis-Infused Beverages (Soda, Coffee, Tea, Beer, Energy Drinks)
- Cannabis Concentrates and Their Consumption, including Vaporizing with Vaporizers, Earth Stones, and Pens, How to Dab, and Dab Equipment (Dab Rigs, Nails, E-Nails, Torches, Dab Tools, Domes, Carb Caps, Terp Pearls, Quartz Inserts, Reverse Tweezers, Bangers)
- Cannabis-Infused Topical and Transdermal Products, including Creams, Lotions, Balms, Patches, and Roll-Ons
- Cannabis Topicals and Skin Sensitivity, Antioxidant Properties, Antimicrobial Properties, Acne Treatment, Onset and Duration, Pain Reduction, Inflammation Treatment, Itch Medicine
- Other Dispensary Products including Cannabis-Infused Inhalers, Bath Bombs, Sexual Lubricants, Suppositories, Sublingual Strips, Moon Rocks, Infused Joints, Shampoo, Topicals
Cannabis Careers
Government Requirements for Cannabis Industry Workers
Necessary information on cannabis work permits and other required prerequisites for anyone looking to start a cannabis career in the United States or Canada. The lesson covers these topics:
- Age Requirements for Working in Cannabis Businesses in US states with legal cannabis programs.
- Cannabis Work Permit Fees for Cannabis Businesses in US states with legal cannabis programs.
- Training Requirements for Cannabis Industry Employees in US states with legal cannabis programs.
- Legal Requirements for Cannabis Workers in US states with legal cannabis programs.
- Canadian Cannabis Worker Regulations, Cannabis Act, and Criminal Code Bill C-45
- Age, Residency, and Ownership Requirements for Cannabis Industry Workers in Canada
- Analytical Cannabis Testing Lab and Cannabis Research Licenses in Canada
- Duties on Cannabis in Canada
- Age Requirements for Cannabis Industry Workers in each Canadian province and territory
- Cannabis Work Permit Fees in each Canadian province and territory
- Training Requirements for Cannabis Workers in each Canadian province and territory
- Legal Requirements for Cannabis Workers in each Canadian province and territory
Cannabis Career Basics
Everything you need to start your cannabis career, including how to identify and locate industry jobs, create the perfect marijuana resume and cover letter, and succeed at the interview so you can start working in this amazing and profitable industry. The lesson covers these topics:
- Where to Look for a Cannabis Industry Job, including Cannabis Job Boards, Recruiting Companies, Placement Businesses, Staffing Agencies
- Online Cannabis Job Resources in the United States and Canada, including Indeed,
Monster.com, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, SimplyHired, Craigslist, Cannabis Training University, Ganjapreneur, BloomTHC, HempEvents.org - Cannabis Staffing Agencies
- Locating Cannabis Jobs through Social Media, including LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
- Getting a Cannabis Job through Unsolicited Emails, Newspapers and Magazine Ads
- Networking for Cannabis Careers at Local Cannabis Events, Cannabis Dispensaries, Cannabis Industry Parties, Cannabis Legislation Events, Dispensary Parties, National Cannabis Events, Women Grow, National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA), Cannabis Policy Project (MPP), MJBizCon, International Cannabis World Events, and Canna-Tech Cannabis Events
- Building Cannabis Experience by Volunteering at Cannabis Organizations and Cannabis Blogging
- Writing a Cannabis Resume, including Tips, Organization, and Showing Black Market Pot Experience
- Using Skills from Other Industries on your Cannabis Resume, including Retails Skills for a Cannabis Budtender Job and Gardening Skills for a Cannabis Grower Job
- How to Write a Cover Letter in the Cannabis Industry, including Tips, Organization, and Including Black Market Cannabis Experience
- Sample Cannabis Entry-Level Cultivation Job Posting, Resume, and Cover Letter
- Sample Cannabis Management Job Listing, Resume, and Cover Letter
- Cannabis World Interview Tips, including Describing Black Market Cannabis Experience
Monster.com, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, SimplyHired, Craigslist, Cannabis Training University, Ganjapreneur, BloomTHC, HempEvents.orgCannabis Cultivation Careers
Want to get your hands dirty working with actual cannabis plants? This lesson dives into the requirements for marijuana growers, cannabis trimmers, cannabis packagers, and other cultivators in the cannabis industry. The lesson covers these topics:
- Overview of Cannabis Cultivation Businesses, including Ancillary Positions like Cannabis Receptionist, Cannabis Security Guard, Cannabis Janitor, Cannabis Inventory Management, Cannabis Website Development, Cannabis Sales, Cannabis Marketing, Cannabis Human Resources, Cannabis Accounting, and Legal Cannabis Jobs
- Cannabis Garden Career Tracks, including Cannabis Field Hand, Cannabis Trimmer, Cannabis Packager, Cannabis Cultivation Associate, Cannabis Cultivation Manager, Cannabis Production Manager, and Master Grower
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Cannabis Grower Positions
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Cannabis Trimming Jobs
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Cannabis Production Managers
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Cannabis Packagers
- Career Path for Cannabis Growers, Cannabis Trimmers, and Cannabis Packagers
- Cannabis Packaging Skills, including How to Use a Futurola Knockbox or Cones Coolbox and How to Roll a Cannabis Joint or Blunt
Cannabis Processing Careers
The cannabis industry needs qualified professionals to work in commercial kitchens, extraction facilities, marijuana-infused-product factories, and more. The lesson covers these topics:
- Overview of Cannabis Manufacturing, Cannabis Kitchen, and Cannabis Extraction Businesses and Jobs
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Cannabis Lab Technician
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Cannabis Laboratory Manager
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Extraction Jobs with Cannabis Infused Product (MIP) Processors
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Cannabis Extraction Specialists
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Cannabis Kitchen Employees
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Cannabis Executive and Formulation Chefs
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Cannabis Kitchen Managers
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Cannabis Infused Product (MIP) Manufacturing Careers
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Cannabis Packagers
- Cannabis Factory Career Tracks
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Cannabis Factory Jobs
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Cannabis Quality Control Employees
Cannabis Dispensary and Budtender Careers
Budtending and dispensary work may be among the most popular avenues for starting a cannabis career, and this lesson shows exactly how to get started. The lesson covers these topics:
- Overview of Cannabis Dispensary Businesses
- Jobs in Cannabis Dispensaries, including Budtenders, Cannabis Educators, Cannabis Assistants, Cannabis Guides, and Managers
- Differences Between Strains and Weight Conversions for Bulk Cannabis Flower
- Cannabis Edible Dosing and Cannabis Ingredients for Home Cooking
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Cannabis Budtender
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Dispensary Manager
- Cannabis Dispensary Job Skills, including Checking in Patients, Handling Money, Weighing and Packaging Buds, Purchase Limits, Inventory Management, Rolling a Cannabis Cigarette, Rolling a Cannabis Cigar, Operating a Point of Sale (POS) System, and Customer Service
- Recommending Medical Cannabis Products for Qualifying Conditions, including Insomnia, Pain, Attention Deficit, and Non-Medical Needs
Ancillary Cannabis Careers
There’s a lot of room to grow as a member of an ancillary cannabis business, including everything from cannabis accountant and cannabis attorney to cannabis scientist, cannabis tour guide, cannabis salesperson, cannabis website developer, and so much more. The lesson covers these topics:
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Accountants
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Lawyers and Attorneys
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Compliance Consultants
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Delivery Drivers
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Doctors and Physicians
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Inventory Managers
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Public Relations (PR) and Marketing Professionals
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Packaging Designers
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Realtors and Real Estate Agents
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Sales Reps and Salesman
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Researchers and Scientists
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Security Guards
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Staffing Agents and Recruiters
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Tour Guides
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Web Developers
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Writers
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Editors
- Responsibilities, Education/Experience Requirements, and Salaries for Cannabis Journalists
Cannabis Business
Government Requirements for Cannabis Businesses
Examine the process of obtaining a special license to run a cannabis business. This lesson acts as a guided tour of the requirements for cannabis business applications in each legal state, province, and territory across the United States and Canada. The lesson covers these topics:
- Inventory Tracking System Requirements in US States and Canadian Provinces
- Vertical Integration Requirements by State For United States Cannabis Businesses
- Licenses Available for Medical Cannabis Businesses in each US state with a medical cannabis program
- Fee Requirements for Cannabis Businesses in every US state with a legal cannabis program
- Licenses Available for Recreational Cannabis Businesses in every US state with a legal cannabis program
- Fee and Licensing Requirements for Canadian Cannabis Businesses
- Cannabis Delivery by Mail in Canada
- Medical and Recreational Cannabis Businesses Licensing in Canadian Provinces and Territories
- Regulations from the Canadian Department of Finance, including Excise Duties on Cannabis, the 2001 Canadian Excise Act, and the 2018 Canadian Budget Implementation Act
- Canadian Retail and Recreational Cannabis Dispensary Licenses in the United States and Canada
- Cannabis Medical and Recreational Cultivation Licenses in the United States and Canada
- Cannabis Processing Licenses in US States and Canadian Provinces and Territories
- Applications and Fees for Cannabis Business Licenses and L300 Cannabis Licenses
- Contacting the Canadian Government
- Canada’s Cannabis Tracking System (CTS)
- Canadian Cannabis Product Packaging and Labeling Requirements
Cannabis Business Basics
Before joining the multi-billion dollar cannabis industry, you’ll need to be prepared. This lesson covers the basics of planning your cannabis business, from writing and pitching your marijuana business plan to overcoming common challenges you might face along the way. The lesson covers these topics:
- Challenges in Starting a Cannabis Business and Potential Cannabis Industry Pitfalls, including Cannabis Banking Challenges, Changing Cannabis Laws and Regulations, Income Tax Issues, Municipal Moratoriums, Under-Educated Consumers, Security, 280E Tax Code and Cannabis, Compliance with Cannabis Regulations, Cannabis Inventory Tracking, and Entering the Green Rush
- Competition in the Cannabis Industry, including Black Market Competition
- How to Write a Cannabis Business Plan, including Audience, Cover Page, Table of Contents, Executive Summary, Trademarks and Patents, Market Analysis, Company Descriptions, Ownership, and Appendices
- Sample Cannabis Business Plan
- The Global, National, and Local Cannabis Market
- Pricing in the Cannabis Industry, including Variable Market Considerations and Competition
- Stages of Development of a Cannabis Business
- Specialization in the Cannabis Industry
- Cannabis Patents, Trade Secrets, Copyrights, Intellectual Property, and Right of Publicity
- Marketing and Sales in the Cannabis Industry, including Creating a Visual Marketing Plan, Target Markets, Price Structure, and Market Penetration Strategy, Financial Projections, Cannabis Advertising, Cannabis Networking, Cannabis Industry Social Media Concerns, Cannabis Business Marketing Strategies, Budtender Product Education, Industry Brochures, Market Influencers, Cannabis Affiliate Marketing, Micro-Influencers, and Online Cannabis Reviews
- Sales Approach Strategies in the Cannabis Space, including Solutions Selling, the Buddy Approach, and The Guru Approach
- Research and Development (R&D) in the Cannabis Industry, including Cannabis Product Life Span
- Creating a Cannabis Facility Operating Plan
- Finances in the Cannabis Industry, including Funding Requests
- Cannabis Pitch Deck Basics, including Importance of a Cannabis Pitch Deck, Pitch Decks to Request Funding, Pitch Decks at Networking Events, and Pitch Deck Competitions
- How to Write a Cannabis Industry Pitch Deck, including Optimal Number of Slides, Slide Content, Appearance of Slides, Verbal Presentations, Delivering the Pitch Deck, Storytelling Skills, and Practicing
- Sample Cannabis Industry Pitch Deck
- Marketing and Advertising Challenges in the Cannabis Industry, including Changing Regulations, Truth and Accuracy Statements, Prohibited Areas, Prohibited Populations, Prohibited Methods
- Cannabis Holidays, including April 20 (420), July 10 (710), and Seasonal Cannabis Considerations
- Advertising in the Cannabis Space, including Industry Restrictions, Traditional Advertising, Advertising on Packaging, Live Events, Advertising in Dispensaries, In-Store Video Ads, Product Marketing Posters, Flyers, Signs, Branded Dispensary Bags and Jars, Promotional Models, Reward Programs, Promotional Items, Print Advertising, Radio Advertising, TV Advertising, Direct Mail, Billboards, Promotional Drink Coasters, News Media Coverage, Vinyl-Wrapped Vehicles, Online Advertising, Business Websites, Email Marketing, Banner Ads, Keyword Advertising, Social Media, and Hashtags
- Cannabis Transporting and Delivery Regulations Between Businesses, from Growers to Stores, to Dispensaries, Between Wholesale Businesses
- Cannabis Inventory Management, including Product Recalls and Defective Products, Expiration Dates, Inventory Tracking Systems, Seed-To-Sale, Seed-to-Harvest Tracking, Tracking for Processors, Wholesale-to-Consumer Tracking, Point of Sale (POS) Systems
- Tracking Cannabis Product Turnover Rates, Product Performance, Gross Margins, Lost Sales, Sell-Through Rates, and Stolen Products
- Cannabis Business Insurance, including Property Insurance, Product Liability Insurance, Living Cannabis Plant Coverage
- Federal Legal Considerations for Cannabis Businesses in the United States
- Local Regulations for Different Cannabis Business Types, including Prohibited Locations
- Packaging and Labeling Regulations in the Cannabis Industry
- Cannabis Business Shutdown Procedures, Rule Violations, and Government Raids
Cannabis Cultivation Businesses
This lesson walks you through the many factors involved in starting a marijuana cultivation business. It will help you set up a successful cannabis cultivation business and avoid many common pitfalls. The lesson covers these topics:
- Preparing to Start a Cannabis Cultivation Business, including Cannabis Education, Networking, Research, and Planning
- Financing a Cannabis Business, including Traditional Financing, Venture Capital, Private Equity Funding, and Private Lenders
- Setting up a Cannabis Grow Business, including Business Structure, Licensing, and Insurance for Cannabis Cultivation
- Getting Property for your Cannabis Grow Business, including Building Permits, Square Footage Limitations, Legal Use of Property, Zoning, Commercial Leases, and Avoiding a Move
- Setting up an Indoor Cannabis Cultivation Facility, including Space Requirements, Costs, and Choosing the best Lights and Media for Growing Cannabis
- Setting up an Outdoor Cannabis Cultivation Facility, including Soil, Water, Climate, Harvest Limitations, and Light Deprivation Greenhouses
- Cannabis Cultivation Business Operations, including Cultivation Plans, Inventory Control, Product Testing, Employment Laws, Training Manuals, Safety Plans, Staffing Plans, Environmental Plans, Fire Safety, Waste Disposal, and Security
- Choosing Cannabis Strains to Grow, including Grow Time, THC and CBD Strains, CBD vs THC, Indica vs. Sativa vs Hybrids, and Genetic Origin of Strains
Cannabis Processing Businesses
Cannabis manufacturing businesses make consumer products out of harvested cannabis plants. In this lesson, we cover the basic business decisions that all cannabis manufacturing businesses need to make to be successful. We also walk through the main types of cannabis manufacturing businesses, including extraction facilities, infused-product commercial kitchens, and large-scale infused-product manufacturers. The lesson covers these topics:
- Preparing to Start a Cannabis Manufacturing Business, including Research, Planning, Pitch Decks, and Building a Team
- Financing a Cannabis Infused Product Manufacturing Business
- Licensing and Insurance for Cannabis Manufacturing Businesses
- Finding Property for a Cannabis Manufacturing Facility, including Legal Use of Property, Zoning, Leases, Fire Safety, Environmental Plans, Waste Disposal, and Security
- Constructing a Cannabis-Infused Product Manufacturing Facility, including Negative Pressure Ventilation, Spark-Proof Exhaust, and Commercial Sprinklers
- Ordering Equipment for a Cannabis Infused-Product Manufacturing Business
- Setting Up a Cannabis Extraction Facility, Choosing Extraction Methods and Products, Solventless Extracts, Extracting with Solvents, Choosing Equipment, and Inventory Tracking
- Setting Up a Cannabis-Infused Product Commercial Kitchen, including Choosing and Sourcing Cannabis Ingredients, Developing Products, Packaging and Regulations, Setting Up a Facility, Finding Employees, and Planning for Expansion
- Setting Up a Large-Scale Cannabis-Infused Product Manufacturing Facility, including Automation, Equipment, Finding Employees, and Planning for Expansion
- Getting Cannabis-Infused Products into Stores and Dispensaries
Cannabis Dispensary Businesses
When you open a dispensary, you will be faced with some unique business challenges, including industry compliance, store planning, and addressing local attitudes on cannabis. This lesson explains how to open a dispensary and gives you tips on how to move past common issues without a glitch. The lesson covers these topics:
- Legal Considerations in Opening a Cannabis Dispensary, including Operation Type, Signage, Packaging, Labeling
- Cannabis Dispensary Business Basics, including Vertical Integration, Medical vs. Recreational, and Finances
- Cannabis Store Business Plans, including Dispensary Type, Market Niche, Store Layout, and Marketing Plan
- Choosing a Location for your Cannabis Dispensary, including Population, Customer Interests, Competition, Zoning, and Property Leases
- Cannabis Store Setup, including Sales Floor Layout, Order of Services, Equipment, Supplies, and Sanitation
- Quality in Cannabis Dispensaries, including Products, Pricing, Operating Costs, and Tracking Inventory, Patients, and Customers
- Customer Service in Cannabis Stores, including Basic Skills, Product Recalls, and Return Policies
- Cannabis Dispensary Security, including Loss Prevention, Dealing with Customer Problems, Physical Store Security, Door Security, Keeping Cash Safe, Consumption Policies, and Neighborhood Relationships
- Special Considerations for Medical Cannabis Dispensaries, including Legal Requirements, Medical Claims, Patient Education, Patient Agreements, Increasing Plant Limits, and Consumption Options
Ancillary Businesses to the Cannabis Industry
An ancillary cannabis business is one that provides services to a cultivation operation, manufacturer, or dispensary. This lesson describes some of the ancillary businesses in the cannabis industry. The lesson covers these topics:
- Description of Common Ancillary Cannabis Businesses
- Compliance and Consulting Cannabis Businesses
- Cannabis Test Labs Cannabis Businesses
- Cannabis Delivery Businesses
- Cannabis Packaging and Labeling Design Businesses
- Specialized Cannabis Equipment and Supplies Businesses
- Cannabis Real Estate Businesses
- Cannabis Law Firms
- Cannabis Staffing and Payroll Agencies
- Cannabis Accounting Firms
- Cannabis Payment Processing and Software Businesses
- Cannabis Business Insurance Agency
- Cannabis Industry Security Businesses
- Cannabis Marketing Businesses
- Cannabis Public Relations and Branding Businesses
- Cannabis Trade Associations
- Cannabis Medical Centers
- Online Cannabis Directories
- Cannabis Media and Publishing Businesses
- Cannabis Research Businesses
- Cannabis Tourism Businesses
- Cannabis Paraphernalia and Supplies
Cannabis Laws and Regulations
Cannabis Laws in the United States
A deep dive into cannabis laws across the US, including detailed information on current adult use, medical marijuana laws, recreational marijuana laws, and prohibition laws in each US state. The lesson covers these topics:
- History of US Cannabis Policy, including the Cannabis Tax Act of 1937, Cannabis during World War II, The War on Drugs, The Controlled Substance Act of 1970, Cannabis and the United States Criminal Justice System, US Federal Punishments and Penalties for Cannabis, The Cole Memorandum of 2009, Cannabis and the Obama Administration, Pot and the Trump Administration, Cannabis and the Biden Administration, and Cannabis and Attorney General Jeff Sessions
- Cannabis Laws in the United States, including United States Cannabis Regulation, Public Support for Cannabis in the US, Interaction between United States Federal and State Cannabis Laws, Cannabis Court Cases, Federal Cannabis Laws in the United States, Unwarranted Searches as They Relate to Cannabis, Firearms and Cannabis, and Cannabis and the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA)
- Cannabis Possession, Distribution, Manufacturing, Cultivation, Trafficking and CBD Access in every Cannabis Prohibition State
- Medical cannabis programs in each US state
- Cannabis possession, distribution, manufacturing, growing, and trafficking in medical and recreational cannabis states
- Recreational cannabis programs in each US state
Cannabis Laws In Canada
With adult use cannabis now legal nationwide, there has never been a better time to get involved in the cannabis industry in Canada—but only if you understand the status of the Canadian cannabis laws. The lesson covers these topics:
- History of Canadian Cannabis Policy, including Cannabis Prohibition, Cannabis Royal Commission of Inquiry, Legalization for Medical Use, Marihuana for Medical Access Regulations (MMAR), Marihuana for Medical Purposes Regulations (MMPR), and Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations (ACMPR)
- Cannabis Legalization for Personal Use in Canada, including the Cannabis Act, An Act Respecting Cannabis and to Amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the Criminal Code, and Other Acts, and Adult Recreational Use
- Canada’s Federal Medical Cannabis Program, including Health Canada, Qualifying Conditions, and Becoming a Medical Cannabis Patient
- Canada’s Federal Cannabis Laws regarding Possession, Public Consumption, Distribution, Growing Cannabis, and Unlawful Activity
- Cannabis Possession, Public Consumption, Distribution, and Cultivation Laws in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan, and Yukon Territory
Cannabis Laws In Other Countries
Cannabis laws can vary drastically from country to country, and keeping track is hugely important for industry professionals travelling overseas or over borders. In addition to detailed United States and Canadian cannabis law information, Cannabis Training University currently offers marijuana laws for 47 countries around the world. We continue to add more as weed laws change worldwide. The lesson covers these topics:
- International cannabis laws
- Cannabis laws in Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Chile, Columbia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, India, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Laos, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Holland cannabis laws (The Netherlands), North Korea, North Macedonia, Norway, Peru, Republic of the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, Uruguay, Belize, Cambodia, Estonia, Thailand, and Ukraine.
Handouts and Resources
Handouts and resources can be downloaded and/or accessed after enrollment ends.
- Definitions: Cannabis Basics Terminology
- Definitions: Cannabis Legal Terminology
- Definitions: Cannabis Business Terms
- Definitions: Cannabis Cultivation Terminology
- Definitions: Cannabis Medical Terminology
- Definitions: Cannabis Cooking And Extraction Terms
- MS Word Template: Cover Letter Builder
- MS Word Template: Resume Builder
- How to Become a Marijuana Entrepreneur
- Chart: Effects Of Common Cannabinoids
- Chart: Effects of Common Cannabis Terpenes
- How to Become a Cannabis Expert
- Sample: Cover Letter For Entry Level Grower
- Sample: Resume For Entry Level Grower
- Sample: Cover Letter For Dispensary Manager
- Sample: Resume For Dispensary Manager
- Sample: Blunt Royale Business Plan
- Sample: Blunt Royale Pitch Deck
- Supplemental Reading List: Cannabis Basics
- Procedure: Dab Equipment And How To Dab
- Chart: Cannabis Consumption Methods
- Chart: Entourage Effects
- Chart: Effects Of Common Cannabinoids On Receptors
- Checklist: Cannabis Industry Pitch Deck
- Checklist: Cannabis Industry Business Plan
- Chart: Characteristics Of Cannabis Types
- Chart: Storage For Cannabis Products
- Calculator: Cannabis Dry Weight Conversions
E-books
E-books can be accessed for the duration of your enrollment.
- Beyond Buds, Next Generation: Marijuana Concentrates and Cannabis Infusions
- Beyond Buds: Marijuana Extracts, Hash, Vaping, Dabbing, Edibles, and Medicines
- Big Book of Buds Greatest Hits
- Marijuana Garden Saver
- Marijuana Grower's Handbook
- Marijuana Harvest: Maximizing Quality & Yield in Your Cannabis Garden
- Branding Buds: The Commercialization of Cannabis
- Cannabis Grower's Handbook
SNEAK PEEK
The Master of Cannabis Certificate Program takes you inside the cannabis industry. You will learn directly from Master's of marijuana in their field.
With your certification in How to Open a Cannabis Business become qualified for these jobs:
Cannabis Business Consultant
Cannabis Content Creator
Cannabis Business Operations in Growing, Extractions, and Sales
Cannabis/CBD Brand Strategist
Cannabis/CBD White Labeling
Cannabis Business Owner
Julio Rodriguez
Denver, CO
“
Anyone wanting to enter the marijuana business should do themselves a favor and take this certification program. You will not find as much useful marijuana industry secrets and insider information anywhere else.
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