If you’re new to the industry — or new to running a cannabis retail outfit — it can take years of careful planning and execution to build a successful cannabis business.
But you can cut that time in half (or more) by seeking the help of a cannabis consultant. These industry veterans have decades of experience with cannabis businesses and serve as strategic partners, helping dispensaries navigate legal hurdles, optimize operations, identify opportunities, and scale efficiently.
In this guide, we’ll cover exactly what cannabis consultants are, what they do to help you on your journey to opening a cannabis dispensary, as well as top cannabis consultants in your very own state to reach out to.
What is a Cannabis Consultant and What Do They Do?
Cannabis consultants are often former dispensary owners and industry experts who have held high positions in cannabis companies (typically C-suite). Drawing from their own success in the industry, they now share their expertise, industry connections, and insider insights to guide other companies toward their goals.
Since the cannabis industry has dozens of vertical and specialized areas, cannabis consultants will often focus on specific niches where they can provide the deepest expertise – for instance, licensing, cultivation, marketing, compliance, etc. This also benefits dispensary owners who can choose the specialist their business needs most at any given time.
Top Cannabis Consultants in the United States and Canada
At Cova, we do more than just provide a leading Point-of-Sale (POS) system - we also connect cannabis dispensaries with an expansive network of leading tech partners in the cannabis industry including Solink, Headset, KayaPush, SpringBig, and Alpine IQ among others.
In that same spirit of providing value, we’ve compiled this comprehensive list of cannabis consultants and agencies that can guide you through the challenges and hurdles of starting a cannabis dispensary in the United States.
The following five consultants and agencies provide their services nationally with offices in multiple locations in the US (and internationally).
One of the biggest cannabis consultancies in the world, CannDelta has helped launch over 300 cannabis businesses across North America. Having established itself in the Canadian cannabis industry, CannDelta is now using its experience to help US companies establish compliant operations in newly legal states.
CannDelta specializes in licensing, GACP/GMP certifications, compliance, facility audits, and digital marketing, among a wide range of other cannabis consulting services. CannDelta currently has offices in New York City, Hackensack, New Jersey, and Toronto, Canada.
Dope CFO is one of the most well-known and well-regarded cannabis consultancies in the United States. Led by Andrew Hunzicker, CPA, Dope CFO has one of the largest networks of accountants, tax attorneys, and bookkeeping professionals. Dope CFO helps dispensary owners find accounting and financial guidance from professionals who are well-versed in cannabis business practices and can provide the most accurate industry-specific advice.
We've also previously featured Dope CFO's Cannabis Accounting Podcast, which made our list of Best Cannabis Industry Podcasts in 2024.
Point 7 Group is a woman-owned, woman-run consultancy firm with over 37 years of combined experience. Led by founder and CEO Ashley Picillo, Point 7’s team of professionals guide dispensary owners across cannabis licensing & compliance, business development, strategic branding, retail design, and build-outs.
Point 7 Group is based in Denver, Colorado but specializes in local cannabis markets in New York, Minnesota, Kentucky, North Carolina, Delaware, Maryland, Maine, and more.
Based in Boulder, Colorado, with offices in New York and Los Angeles, CannaAdvisor is a multi-state consultancy with cross-disciplinary expertise. They specialize in all stages of a dispensary’s lifecycle, from licensing applications to exit strategies. Their expert team guides entrepreneurs through business launches, facility optimization, and operational compliance, with a proven track record of licencing success.
Sapphire Risk is a leading cannabis consulting firm specializing in security solutions. They have helped over 800 clients across 37 US states (and Canada) with security consulting, business licensing, facility design, and operational procedures. Sapphire Risks’ proven track record includes a 96% average application score and extensive experience in secure facility build-outs.
Since 2019, Katharine Baxter has established herself as a trusted partner in the cannabis industry through her firm, KB Cannabis Consulting. Working with licensed operators and ancillary cannabis businesses, she helps build market presence through digital and in-person marketing, strategic partnerships, and technical documentation,
She also played a crucial role in successful cannabis license applications across 17 states, including Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, with some applications receiving top scores in competitive markets like New Jersey and California. Katharine has also collaborated with industry leaders such as Sapphire Risk Advisory Group and Cova Software – playing an important role in event planning and managing marketing campaigns.
Cannabis Consultants in Arizona
For dispensary owners in Arizona who need a partner close to home, it’s difficult not to consider Cannabis Business Advisors. Based in Phoenix, AZ, the Cannabis Business Advisors bring over 30 years of combined experience, securing over 3 dozen licenses across 16 states. Cannabis Business Advisors specialize in acquisitions, licensing, operations, and marketing.
Cannabis Consultants in California
Being one of the biggest and oldest cannabis markets, there is no shortage of cannabis consultants specializing in California law, but there are a few home-grown agents that stand out.
Be Green Legal is one such cannabis consultancy specializing in compliance management for cannabis businesses in retail, distribution, and manufacturing. With offices in Sacramento, San Diego, and Humboldt, they’ve got the state of California well-covered.
WeCann is a cannabis consultancy specializing in prime real estate for cannabis businesses in California. WeCann helps entrepreneurs apply for licenses, find compliant real estate, and also purchase/sell licensed cannabis businesses.
Cannabis Consultants in Colorado
As the first state to legalize recreational cannabis, Colorado has cultivated some of the industry's most experienced and knowledgeable consultants. Denver has also become a hub for cannabis consulting firms that have helped shape the industry's best practices.
One such company is 3C Consulting. Headquartered in Denver 3C Consulting operates across multiple states, offering their expertise across various functions including business planning, real estate, regulatory compliance, investments, and more.
Higher Yields is also a Denver-based international consultancy whose roots trace back to 2008. They have helped develop over 4 million square feet of cannabis facilities worldwide by providing services like licensing, facility design, marketing, and operational management.
Next Big Crop is a full-service consultancy with a focus on design, build-out, and business admin. Their boutique approach combines hands-on experience with strategic planning to help cannabis businesses achieve operational excellence across all facility types.
Cannabis Consultants in Illinois
Illinois represents one of the fastest-growing cannabis markets in the Midwest. And you’ll find the state’s leading cannabis consulting firm in Chicago. Since 2012, Quantum 9 has helped clients secure licenses in 27 US states and 7 countries. Their expertise in business planning, licensing, facility design, and operational management enables them to help clients secure multiple Illinois dispensary licenses with perfect-score applications.
Cannabis Consultants in Maine
As a pioneer of East Coast cannabis, Maine offers countless opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses. To make the most out of this growing market, the state is home to several great cannabis consultants, including these two.
Maine Cannabis Consultants is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to helping businesses and municipalities navigate the state's evolving cannabis industry. Their comprehensive approach includes licensing assistance, business planning, and municipal outreach services.
The second individual on our list, Ryan The Grower brings over 15 years of commercial cannabis cultivation experience to Maine's market. Specializing in energy-efficient and sustainable growing practices, Ryan offers expertise in both indoor cannabis cultivation and industrial hemp operations, with a particular focus on reducing operational costs while maintaining product quality.
Cannabis Consultants in Massachusetts
Since legalization in 2016, Massachusetts has generated well over $6 billion in revenue and is consistently passing new laws to make the local cannabis market safer for consumers and more supportive of new cannabis businesses. These changes also mean that the legal framework is constantly, creating a need for an extra helping hand.
Tenax Strategies is one of the leading consulting firms that play this role for cannabis businesses in Massachusetts (and beyond). Based in Boston, Tenax Strategies helps with everything from application writing and licensing to site selection and post-operational compliance.
Cannabis Consultants in Michigan
Michigan joined the ranks of the biggest cannabis markets last year after crossing $3 billion in cannabis sales. Unsurprisingly, more people are interested in starting their cannabis venture than ever before.
Rehmann is a professional advisory firm catering to many of these budding entrepreneurs and business owners, offering comprehensive financial consulting and accounting. Their team of experts spans Michigan, Ohio, and Florida, specializing in cannabis accounting, regulatory compliance, tax planning, and business advisory services.
Cannabis Consultants in Minnesota
Minnesota opened up applications for its first batch of adult-use dispensaries earlier this year and no doubt, there will be thousands of people looking to begin their cannabis business.
For many of these people, Blunt Strategies is likely going to be the first destination. Blunt Strategies is Minnesota’s first and only full-service strategic cannabis consultancy. It is a women-owned public benefit corporation offering solutions in licensing, public affairs, brand development, regulatory strategy, compliance, and much more.
Cannabis Consultants in Missouri
When Missouri put in motion the legalization process of cannabis in 2020, Cova Software was among the first to receive a seed-to-sale license – helping Missourians prepare for the upcoming legalization. Since then, Missouri cannabis dispensaries have generated over $1.4 billion in sales.
Another company playing a role in this milestone is Amendment 2 Consultants. Based in Saint Louis, A2C helps cannabis businesses understand and excel in government affairs, compliance, operating procedures, and license acquisition. The firm has a deep understanding of Missouri's cannabis politics and was involved in the successful 2018 campaign to legalize medical marijuana in the state.
Cannabis Consultants in Nevada
Nevada’s unique tourism industry and hospitality focus have created opportunities for consultants who understand both the technical compliance requirements and the entertainment-focused culture of the Silver State.
Cannabis Commerce Group Consulting (CCGC) is one of Nevada's leading cannabis consultancy, currently serving as consultants for over 17 Nevada marijuana licenses. Based in Las Vegas, CCGC offers comprehensive services including licensing, business purchases and sales, facility design and build-out, operations consulting, and product development. Their client roster includes publicly traded companies, former legislators, and new cannabis entrepreneurs entering the market.
Cannabis Consultants in New Jersey
As one of the newest adult-use markets on the East Coast, New Jersey's cannabis industry presents many unique opportunities and challenges for businesses entering the space. Fortunately, companies like Cannabis Consultants of New Jersey (CCNJ) offer a helping hand.
Based in Collingswood, CCNJ provides consultation services with particular expertise in micro-licensing. Their services span business formation, licensing, regulatory compliance, and real estate matters, helping both startups and established companies navigate New Jersey's emerging cannabis marketplace.
Cannabis Consultants in New Mexico
We’ve followed the inception and growth of New Mexico’s cannabis market closely – from the launch of NM’s first adult-use dispensary (also powered by Cova Software) to crossing $1 billion in annual sales revenue in 2024 – we’ve seen it all.
Another company closely following New Mexico’s cannabis market is Weeds, a consultancy firm that emerged from the state's Marijuana Legalization Working Group. Based in Albuquerque, the Weeds team has helped license over 200 facilities across the state – providing support with licensing navigation, compliance consulting, and internal operations.
Cannabis Consultants in New York
Even though New York’s legal cannabis market is only four years old, the state has one of the more complex licensing and compliance requirements out there. Making sense of its unique social equity program, diverse real estate market, and varied consumer habits are companies like Bridge West.
Headquartered in New York City, Bridge West has cemented itself as a leading advisory firm focused on cannabis startup planning, licensing services, and operational guidance across cultivation, processing, and retail sectors.
Another firm that should be on your list is Empire Cannabis Consulting. Based in Manhattan, they have a strong focus on social and economic equity and specialize in supporting legacy operators, minority professionals, and justice-involved individuals entering New York's cannabis market.
Cannabis Consultants in Virginia
Virginia's cannabis market remains in a state of transition. The state's pending adult-use implementation, limited medical-use licensing, and high barriers to entry have created a strong demand for experienced cannabis consultants who can navigate these evolving waters.
The Virginia Cannabis Lawyers, led by Attorney Tyson Daniel, has established itself as one of the state's leading cannabis consultancies. Based in Roanoke, they specialize in regulatory compliance, licensing, zoning laws, and business formation. With 20 years of legal experience, they serve various sectors of the industry from farmers and processors to retailers and wholesalers.
Cannabis Consultants in Washington
As one of the first states to legalize recreational cannabis in 2012, Washington's mature market has developed a unique mix of urban and rural cultivation has created opportunities for consultants who understand both indoor and outdoor growing operations.
Coastal Cannabis Consulting, led by David Brown Esq., combines legal expertise with hands-on industry experience. Brown, both a biologist and attorney, brings unique credentials to cannabis consulting, co-owning a cannabis processing facility in Washington and having held public office. David’s firm now helps cannabis businesses with licensing, compliance, facility design, and strategic planning.
How Much do Cannabis Consultants Charge?
Cannabis consulting fees can vary dramatically depending on the scope of services and level of expertise required. Individual consultants typically charge between $70 to $500 per hour for their services, while project-based fees for consulting firms might cost anywhere from $5,000 to $25,000.
Your project needs also influence the cost of hiring consultants. For instance, guidance and help with licensing and filing applications will generally cost more than one-off legal consultations. Many businesses may also need ongoing support for startup operations, accounting, marketing, and compliance and much rather invest in monthly retainer arrangements that start at $2,500 and can exceed $10,000 depending on the services provided.
Additionally, geographic location, market complexity, scope of services, experience level, and project duration all impact total consulting costs. Many consultants offer flexible payment structures and customized service packages to match different budget levels and business needs.
Choosing the Right Cannabis Consultant for Your Dispensary
Choosing the right cannabis consultant can be tricky (and daunting, given what’s at stake) but you’re not alone. Thousands of cannabis businesses utilize these services each year because having the right expertise in your corner can make all the difference.
Depending on your goals and needs, a quality consultant can navigate you through the licensing application process, help you write your dispensary business plan, develop retail floor plans, and even guide your cannabis branding and marketing.
At Cova, we help dispensaries all across North America get access to professionals that help build not just the technology foundation for long-term success, but also cover the legal, financial, and logistical challenges.
Cova helps retailers launch and expand cannabis stores through our strong relationships with experts including Ms. Jane Accounting, Blunt Strategies, MCGCIC, and Canna Advisors. Tying it all together, Cova’s 5-star support team will help you launch and optimize operations to stay ahead of the competition.
Get access to all of this and our award-winning Point-of-Sale system that integrates seamlessly the unique requirements and laws of every state and province. Cova POS combines security, accuracy, and ease of use in a single, comprehensive package, with features like:
- An easy-to-use interface that requires minimal training — making it the first choice for budtenders and cannabis business owners
- Advanced analytics that provide real-time insights into inventory, sales, and even store security
- Powerful integrations with leading cannabis solutions including eCommerce, Delivery, Security, Gift Cards, CRM, and more.
- Supports Low-Dose and Future Adult-Use Retailers so retailers don’t have to switch POS systems if and when they switch marijuana license types.