Manitoba First Nations and Marijuana

There are 63 First Nations in Manitoba. Many of these nations are contemplating the pending impact on their communities brought by the legalization of marijuana in July 2018. Each nation must decide the best actions for them to take. Some are considering the potential business opportunities in the cannabis industry, and others have taken their first steps into next year's projected billion-dollar market.

Manitoba Cannabis Legislative Framework

The government of Manitoba is currently working on cannabis regulations and legislation to implement prior to July 2018 when cannabis becomes legal across the country. The framework for this legislation is based on the following objectives:

• The minimum age is 19. That is the same as the minimum age to purchase and consume alcohol and tobacco in B.C.
• Wholesale of non-medical cannabis will be monitored by the BC Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB)
• Both public and private retail distribution will be given a model. Details on that model will be released early 2018.

Source: Source: https://globalnews.ca/news/3898031/manitoba-unveils-more-plans-for-pot-including-legal-age-to-buy/

Cannabis Opportunities for Manitoba First Nations

Opaskwayak Cree Nation

Retail Dispensaries

On November 08, 2017 it was announced that Opaskwayak Cree Nation of Manitoba has partnered with National Access Cannabis Corp. Together they will submit a proposal for legal marijuana dispensaries on their land. Using the National Access Cannabis business model, the Opaskwayak Cree Nation believe they will be able to provide secure employment for their members. As well as provide for the demand of the people in Manitoba.

Long Plain First Nation

Retail Dispensaries

Long Plain First Nation Government believe that legal marijuana may be a profitable new revenue source. The decision was based around the creation of jobs for their members. They have also partnered with National Access Cannabis. The split will be 49:51 in favor of the first nation. They plan to have two retail locations, Winnipeg urban reserve and the Portage urban reserve.

Peguis First Nation

Retail Dispensary

The Peguis First Nation is the third First Nation to partner with National Access Cannabis in Manitoba. The band intends to have a retail marijuana dispensary on their land. Community information meetings will be held in the future to give more information on the project, the partnership, and the goals for the band members. The Peguis First Nation will provide a retail location and people to help in the operations of the store. National Access Cannabis will be providing the business model, management, and other services to the partnership.