Maryland opened applications Tuesday for sites to participate in the nation’s first state-run cannabis incubator program.

The program, overseen by a partnership of the Maryland Cannabis Administration in partnership with the Maryland Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO) will “support micro licensees, which include the new subset of licenses issued under the most recent social equity license round, both for microprocessors “and micro dispensaries.”

Cannabis growing businesses, also known as “micro-growers,” are not included in the program.

Earlier this year, plans to convert the Catonsville armory into the first state-run incubator were scrapped amid public backlash from the community surrounding the proposed site.

In a news release Tuesday, MEDCO said it is looking for both privately and publicly owned sites, ideally underutilized commercial and properties, with priority going to sites that are 30,000 square feet or less and contain a commercial kitchen and loading dock.

According to the MCA, the program is equipped to support as many as 110 cannabis microprocessors and dispensaries.

A requirement to apply is an agreement to assist MEDCO and the Maryland Cannabis Administration in conducting community engagement initiatives related to the proposed incubator.

_____

©2025 Baltimore Sun. Visit baltimoresun.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.