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Following the 2018 US Farm Bill, Cannabidiol (CBD) has become a mainstream wellness product in the US, thanks to its varied range of health benefits. Fortunately, most CBD products with less than 0.3% THC are legal in the state of New Hampshire. But how do you get a license to sell CBD in the state?
In this article, you’ll learn how to break into the New Hampshire CBD industry, from understanding the CBD license application process to the steps required to start a CBD business. Additionally, we’ll cover the laws and regulations for selling cannabidiol in New Hampshire and when to renew your license. Let’s get started!
How to Start a CBD Business in New Hampshire
With the cannabidiol market in North America projected to grow at 33.3% CAGR and hit over $61.2 billion by 2027, starting a CBD business has never been more attractive.[1]Graphical Research. “North America Cannabidiol CBD Market.” Accessed on June 5, 2024. If you are looking to find your place within this dynamic industry in New Hampshire, here are a few steps on how to start:
1. Research all Local and Federal CBD Regulations for Businesses
The US Farm Bill of 2018 legalized commercial hemp production in the USA, opening doors for selling hemp-derived products. Accepted CBD products must contain ≤ 0.3% THC. Luckily, New Hampshire has no in-state laws regulating CBD — utilizing the US Farm Bill 2018 regulations for reference.[2]FDA. “Hemp Production and the 2018 Farm Bill.” Accessed on June 5, 2024.
2. Write a Business Plan
A business plan outlines the path to attaining your vision. It should define the cannabidiol products you plan to sell, how to market and package them, and the source of capital. A business plan also attracts potential investors looking to invest in high-risk ventures.
3. Register Your CBD Business
To operate a CBD business in New Hampshire, you need a license. You can register your business as an LLC, partnership, corporation, or sole proprietorship, among other business types. Obtaining an IRS EIN/TIN is also mandatory.
4. Secure Payment Processing Services
With eCommerce becoming more and more mainstream, selling CBD products online is an added advantage. So, you’ll need to partner with a payment processor that accommodates CBD merchants and has the ability to meet your unique needs.
5. Find a CBD Supplier
If you want to start a CBD business without incurring upfront costs, consider partnering with an established brand or drop shipper. This way, you don’t need an established inventory to purchase cannabidiol products in bulk. Consequently, you can develop CBD products to control your brand loyalty and cash flow.
6. Define Your Pricing Model
A pricing model defines your operating costs and projected profit margins. It guides you in determining daily expenses and establishing product price ranges. This helps you forecast profits from each product.
7. Determine Your Shipping and Handling procedures
Customers are the lifeblood of your business, and meeting their expectations plays a significant role in your business’ success. Therefore, you must determine shipping fees, delivery timelines, logistics carrier partners, and appropriate fulfillment software.
8. Marketing
Just because the demand for CBD products is rising doesn’t mean customers will be knocking down your door. Like any new business, you should do a deep market analysis and customer acquisition — identifying your target customer and attracting, converting, and retaining the right audience for your products.
You also need up-to-date information on CBD usage to run a successful marketing strategy. Research current laws, available CBD types, potential benefits, and the general outlook of the hemp landscape. You will gain credibility in the field by returning your findings with data from authoritative sites and experts.
There are many ways you can showcase your business to the public. You can market your CBD products through social media platforms, influencer and affiliate programs, and trade shows and conferences. This way, your product listings can leave a lasting impression on CBD consumers.
9. Keep Track of Industry Trends and Risks
Opening a CBD business is a risky venture. Laws and regulations constantly change, making it tiresome to keep up with them. You need to have enough capital and emergency funds if things go south. Additionally, it’s good to know each product and its specific legal requirements to avoid fines and penalties. Outsourcing legal and financial advisory services is recommended to mitigate the constantly changing hemp landscape.
How to Get a CBD License in New Hampshire
You need to have a CBD license to operate a CBD business in New Hampshire. This may include a business or resale permit or any other certifications required by state law. Here’s a general guideline on how to obtain a CBD license in the state:
1. Determine your business structure. Different business types have unique legal and tax implications. Understanding these specifics also helps you determine your business plan and the license that best suits you — whether you intend to cultivate, process, sell, or resell CBD products.
2. Complete the required applications. New Hampshire requires applicants to submit permit requests to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).[3]USDA. “Welcome to the Hemp eManagement Platform (HeMP).” Accessed on June 5, 2024. Your application needs to provide all required information and any supporting documents. You may pay up to $50 in application fees.
3. Undergo background checks. If you are a first-time applicant, you’ll need to submit a set of your fingerprints and any other data for a background criminal activity check.
CBD License Application Requirements for New Hampshire
CBD license requirements vary depending on the type of permit you are applying for. So, reviewing other guidelines outlined by New Hampshire’s Department of Health and Human Services and the NH Liquor Commission is important.
The general requirements when applying for a CBD license in New Hampshire include:
- Business plan
- Application form
- Business registration certificate
- Background checks for key individuals involved in the business
- Proof of financial stability (financial statements)
- Data on product packaging and labeling
- CBD products analysis certificate
- Compliance certificate to prove you comply with manufacturing and labeling standards
- Application fee
Laws and Regulations for Selling CBD in New Hampshire
New Hampshire has not enacted any of its own CBD laws, relying solely on the US Farm Bill of 2018.[4]New Hampshire Cannabis Information. “Is CBD Oil Legal In New Hampshire?.” Accessed on June 5, 2024. With this in mind, here are some key laws & regulations for selling CBD in New Hampshire:
- CBD is legal in New Hampshire, provided it is extracted from hemp and contains ≤ 0.3 % THC content.
- It is illegal to sell CBD edibles and infusions in New Hampshire.
- Marijuana-derived CBD is illegal in New Hampshire, with the only exception being for medical purposes.
- Out-of-state CBD products that meet USDA and state-of-origin cultivation and production standards can be retailed in New Hampshire.
- Only USDA-approved merchants are authorized to cultivate, process, transport, buy, and sell hemp-derived CBD.
Additionally, New Hampshire introduced several bills during its 2020 legislative session that might change its hemp industry. HB 1424 permits Alternative Treatment Centers (ATCs) to sell and utilize hemp-based CBD isolates.
The HB 1658-FN seeks to outline a hemp licensing program for commercial traders and processors in New Hampshire. Under the HB 1581-FN bill, New Hampshire aims to regulate hemp-based CBD sales and ensure all CBD products retailed in New Hampshire are produced within its borders.
How to Renew Your CBD License in New Hampshire
Timely renewals are key to retaining your CBD license in New Hampshire. You need to track the expiration date of your CBD license and get renewal plans underway at least a month earlier. You only get the renewal application from the USDA, a federal body regulating hemp cultivation, processing, and retailing in New Hampshire.
Start Selling CBD in New Hampshire
To start selling CBD products in New Hampshire, you need a CBD license and all other necessary permits. But remember, the CBD industry is a risky venture. You can mitigate the risks and uncertainties by partnering with a high-risk merchant services provider and obtaining a CBD merchant account!
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New Hampshire CBD License: FAQs
Is CBD legal in New Hampshire?
Yes, CBD is legal in New Hampshire if it contains less than 0.3% THC. However, edible and infused CBD is not legal in New Hampshire.
How much does a CBD license cost in New Hampshire?
As it stands, USDA doesn’t charge a fee for issuing hemp licenses. However, depending on the license type you are applying for, you may incur up to a $50 application fee.
Can you sell CBD without a license in New Hampshire?
No, you cannot sell CBD in New Hampshire without a license. It’s a criminal offense to sell CBD products without USDA approval, and you may be penalized.
How long is a CBD license valid in New Hampshire?
A CBD license in New Hampshire varies depending on its type. To remain compliant, you must check your license expiration date and renew it on time.
