Micro Biz News ►
The Missouri microbusiness community is making significant strides , with increasing momentum and new opportunities for micro license holders . The upcoming launch of micro-grown cannabis sales will be a pivotal moment for the state , enhancing Missouri ’ s cannabis market by providing consumers with more product options and locations . For those unfamiliar , wholesale microbusinesses operate with a limit of 250 flowering plants , allowing them to focus on quality craftsmanship and innovation . While some will take the craft approach , producing small-batch , artisanal products , others will focus on scaling within their limits to meet broader consumer demand . This diversity strengthens the industry , ensuring a dynamic market that caters to various preferences . This smaller scale not only supports local economies but also encourages community engagement , job creation , and the development of both unique cannabis products and the traditional offerings we are all familiar with .
Where We Stand
Missouri ’ s microbusiness program , designed to create opportunities for small business owners and underrepresented entrepreneurs , has faced both triumphs and challenges . While the initiative provided many individuals entry into the cannabis industry , outcomes have varied significantly across licensees .
● In Round One , 39 licenses were awarded — 32 wholesale and 16 dispensaries — though nine licenses ( eight dispensaries and one wholesale operation ) were later revoked .
● Round Two saw 57 licenses issued , with 32 currently facing Notices of Pending Revocation , creating uncertainty in their business trajectories .
Many microbusiness owners continue to face significant hurdles in securing real estate , completing facility buildouts , and navigating regulatory requirements . The state ’ s two-year commencement timeline creates additional pressure , making access to capital and strategic planning essential for success . Despite these challenges , Missouri ’ s microbusiness industry progresses steadily as the first waves of micro-grown cannabis approach market readiness .
Who ’ s Growing ? The State of Micro Cultivation
Missouri ’ s first micro-grown cannabis has arrived , with two wholesale microbusinesses from Round One now operational . One wholesaler has completed three harvests , with a fourth drying , producing approximately 40-50 pounds of product ! The first sale of micro-grown cannabis is expected between March and April when wholesale growers begin distributing to dispensaries .
Another wholesale operation approaches its third harvest . These developments mark significant progress for the micro-community , soon enabling Missouri customers to purchase locally cultivated , small-business-grown craft cannabis .
What ’ s Next ? Upcoming Microbusiness Commencements
Several microbusinesses are preparing to commence operations in the coming months . Wholesale Operations :
1 . South O ’ Bones Wholesale ( District Five ): Targeting commencement in March .
2 . Urban Farms Wholesale ( District Four ): It plans to request commencement in March .
3 . Monsta Farms ( District Seven ): Aiming for mid-March commencement . Eight to ten additional wholesalers are working towards a late February – April launch .
16 March 2025 by Samantha Blum , contributing writer
Missouri ’ s Microbusinesses
Progress , Challenges , and an Exciting Future Ahead
Dispensary Operations :
● District Eight : One dispensary plans for a March commencement , another for March-April , and two more within the next six months .
● District One : Preparing for mid-April commencement .
● District Six : 816 Dispensary is aiming for a soft opening in April .
Opening a dispensary requires careful timing , ensuring sufficient micro cultivators are operational before opening doors . The next few months will be crucial in shaping Missouri ’ s microbusiness landscape .
MMBA — Supporting Missouri ’ s Cannabis Entrepreneurs
The Missouri Microbusiness Association ( MMBA ) supports industry entrepreneurs through comprehensive resources and programs . One resource is the “ Knowledge is Power ” webinar series , which delivers monthly sessions covering dispensary buildouts , cultivation techniques , manufacturing best practices , compliance requirements , and marketing strategies , helping members stay current in the rapidly changing cannabis landscape .
Community engagement remains central , with open board meetings providing a forum for every owner ’ s voice and maintaining transparency . The MMBA facilitates quarterly in-person gatherings and MoCannTrade Meet-Ups , creating valuable connections among microbusiness owners . Additional networking events are being developed to expand these collaborative opportunities .
Understanding the unique challenges microbusiness owners face , the MMBA provides personalized support through its board members . This one-on-one assistance helps operators navigate regulatory compliance , operational challenges , supply chain logistics , and industry-specific concerns . Whether members need guidance on licensing requirements , facility setup , or operational best practices , the MMBA ’ s experienced leadership team stands ready to provide direction .
The Future is Bright
Momentum is building for Missouri ’ s microbusiness industry . The launch of micro-grown cannabis sales represents a breakthrough , offering consumers high-quality , small-batch products while supporting independent operators . As more businesses prepare to launch , the microbusiness ecosystem continues to grow , fostering an interconnected network of entrepreneurs who uplift and support one another .
This expanding community plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Missouri ’ s cannabis sector . Collaboration , knowledge-sharing , and mutual support are driving forces behind its success , creating a sustainable ecosystem where small businesses can and will thrive . Through advocacy , education , and networking , the MMBA is dedicated to ensuring that micro license holders have the resources they need to succeed .
The MMBA invites all micro license holders to join this growing community . As more microbusinesses overcome initial hurdles and become operational , I believe the market will benefit from increased product diversity , local economic growth , and the unique perspectives that small-scale operators bring to the industry .
Samantha Blum is the Chairwoman of the Missouri Microbusiness Association ( MMBA ) and the Founder of Bud Wizard , a round one microbusiness winner , a women-owned cannabis cultivation facility specializing in indoor aeroponic cultivation . Her dedication to craft cannabis , sustainability , and entrepreneurial-driven growth continues to shape the evolving landscape of the state ’ s cannabis industry .