CanGrow Technical Assistance Program
Education. Compliance. Technical Assistance.
The CanGrow Technical Assistance Program provides education, resources, and one-on-one support to help entrepreneurs and individuals build a compliant, sustainable, and successful cannabis growing operation.
This program is intended for Tribal and rural community members and other individuals interested in cultivating cannabis under the Leech Lake Cannabis Ordinance and all applicable state laws.
About the Program
The CanGrow Technical Assistance Program is designed to support Tribal, rural, and emerging entrepreneurs interested in cannabis cultivation education, compliance awareness, and business development support.
LLFS does not provide legal advice, guarantee licensure or approval, or provide direct funding. We provide education, resources, and technical assistance to help participants understand the steps and requirements involved in building a cannabis growing operation that is compliant, sustainable, and successful.
What This Program Offers
Education
Learn the basics of cannabis cultivation, compliance, and business management.
Compliance Guidance
Understand state requirements,
Tribal Ordinance rules. and best practices.
1:1 Technical Assistance
Work with our team to develop your grow plan and address challenges.
Business Support
Receive help with planning, recordkeeping, and building a strong foundation.
Financing Pathway
Eligible participants may be connected to financing opportunities.
Important Notice
Cannabis remains illegal under federal law. This program is educational in nature and does not provide legal advice. Participants are solely responsible for complying with all applicable Tribal, local, state, and federal laws and regulations. LLFS does not guarantee licensure, approval, or funding by any government entity.
Eligibility Requirements
- Individuals impacted by past cannabis laws.
- Tribally enrolled and rural community members.
- Entrepreneurs, growers, and small business owners.
- Anyone interested in cannabis cultivation.
- Those ready to build income through cannabis cultivation.
- Those willing to commit & complete the program.
How It Works
- Complete the required education and assessments.
- Work with our team to develop your grow plan.
- Licensing & compliance guidance.
- Hands-on cultivation training.
- Implement Your Plan with ongoing support.
- Access Additional Resources (funding up to $75,000+).
Program Education Includes
Cannabis Basics
Plant biology, lifecycle, and cultivation fundamentals.
State & Tribal Compliance
Understand the Leech Lake Cannabis Ordinance and state requirements.
Grow Operations
Hands-on training. Facility setup, security, inventory tracking, and best practices.
Business & Financial Literacy
Recordkeeping, budgeting. and preparing for long-term success.
Health, Safety & Environmental
Stewardship
Safe handling, environmental responsibility, and community well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Tribal enrollment is not required. This program is open to individuals living on or within 20 miles of the Leech Lake Reservation.
This program prepares participants to operate within the legal, regulated cannabis industry, including understanding licensing requirements, compliance standards, and business responsibilities set by the State and/or Tribal authorities.
Strong applicants demonstrate:
- Willingness to commit to the full program.
- Readiness to complete assignments and business planning work.
- Individuals negatively impacted by cannabis laws prior to May 1, 2023.
- Military Veterans, plus those who lost honorable status due to a cannabis offense.
- Low income households.
- Participated in day-to-day labor or management of a farm operation for at least 3 years, with farm sales of $5,000- $100,000 in 2025.
- Illegal growers who wish to scale up and enter legalized cannabis farming.
If your availability changes after being selected, please notify the program team as soon as possible. Due to the limited number of spots, your place may be offered to another applicant.
No. You do not need to have land or a cultivation site secured before applying. The program will help you understand what is required and how to plan for it.
No. Training-related materials and instruction will be provided as part of the program. Additional business-related investments will be discussed as part of your planning process.
Yes. This program is designed to support individuals at different starting points, including those new to cannabis or business ownership.
No. You do not need to have land or a cultivation site secured before applying. The program will help you understand what is required and how to plan for it.
Participants who complete the program will have a business plan, a stronger understanding of the licensing process, and the ability to pursue financing opportunities if they choose to move forward.
Please contact:
Sharon James
📞 218-407-2071
✉️ sjameshq@gmail.com
This activity is made possible in part by a grant from the State of Minnesota through the CanGrow Technical Assistance Program, administered by the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management, with funds appropriated by the Minnesota State Legislature.
Ready To Get Started?
Take the first step toward building a compliant and sustainable cannabis growing operation.
