New York Small Businesses Gain Access to Farmers Markets for Cannabis Sales

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has signed a new law that permits state-licensed cannabis microbusinesses and dispensaries to sell their products at farmers markets and other community events. This expansion, announced Thursday, extends the state's Cannabis Showcase Event permits to these smaller businesses.

The legislation aims to create a more equitable playing field for smaller cannabis entrepreneurs, allowing them to compete with larger corporations that have greater marketing resources. Under the new rules, licensed microbusinesses can only sell their own cannabis products at these approved events.

"This new law gives licensed microbusinesses and dispensaries a real chance to succeed in New York’s legal cannabis market," Hochul stated. "By opening the door for legal operators to sell at approved community events and farmer’s markets we are putting small entrepreneurs on a level playing field, expanding consumer access to safer, regulated products and strengthening one of New York’s fastest growing industries."

Hochul initially signed legislation in March 2025 that allowed larger licensed adult-use dispensaries to participate in showcase events. The new bill, introduced by State Sen. Michelle Hinchey in April, specifically targets the inclusion of smaller businesses.

"Showcase events, like farm markets, give these small businesses a perfect way to reach consumers with their homegrown products," Hinchey said in a statement. "With summer here and New Yorkers excited to shop outside, it’s critical that cannabis microbusinesses can participate in showcase events alongside retailers and other licensees — and our legislation makes that possible."

Recreational marijuana was legalized in New York in 2021. The state's legal cannabis market has since generated over $2.5 billion in sales, with more than $1.5 billion in sales recorded in 2025 alone, according to the Office of Cannabis Management. The number of licensed dispensaries statewide more than doubled from 2024 to 2025, reaching 556, including over 200 in New York City.