In 2016, voters in the state of Montana motioned to legalize medical marijuana. The following year, the regulatory framework of this newly emerging industry was set into motion.  In January 2020, adult-use cannabis was legalized in the state, and two years later, in January 2022, adult-use cannabis became accessible to be legally purchased in the state for consumers 21 years and older. 

Although Montana reported a tax revenue of more than $53 million from regulated adult-use cannabis market sales in 2023, the emerging industry still faces financial challenges due to the illegal federal status of marijuana. 

At Confia, we are proud to offer financial services and solutions specifically tailored to underserved and higher-risk industries. By taking part in our financial solutions, you can trust your business’s compliance and regulatory operations are in safe hands while you focus on what matters most – the growth and development of your business. 

Cannabis Compliance in the Treasure State

In the Treasure State, only certain licensed medical marijuana businesses are permitted to sell adult-use products to consumers in specific “green” counties where the regulated sale of cannabis has been approved. Licenses were originally obtained by Montana’s Medical Marijuana Program (MMP), but licensing is set to expand as the industry continues to develop and grow. 

The MPP, which moved from the Department of Public Health and Human Services to the Department of Revenue (DOR) in 2021, was additionally renamed the Cannabis Control Division (CCD). It is the mission of the CCD and its departments to ensure the health and safety of all of Montana’s residents via fair administration, education, and enforcement of the Montana Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MMRT). The MMRT established the rules and policies that regulate the Treasure State’s cannabis industry while concurrently diminishing the presence of an illicit, unregulated market. Public health and safety are always a top priority, and the state of Montana prioritizes compliance through education and enforcement.

Confia: Confidence for the Underserved 

Montana presents a unique regulated market for cannabis and cannabis-related businesses (CRBs). As the DOR and CCD are still evaluating what rules and processes are necessary for the continued growth and compliant operation of the cannabis industry in Montana, there is ample opportunity for growth for CRBs and hemp-related businesses in the state. 

At Confia, our team of industry experts is dedicated to the growth and success of cannabis and other emerging industries in the Treasure State. Fully equipped to meet your unique needs and facilitate your success in the cannabis industry, Confia can confidently aid in navigating the complexities of financial services regarding cannabis in Montana. 

Rest assured that Confia provides a secure, dependable, and highly customizable commerce platform to ensure your business operations with ease. 

Our services include: 

• • • Checking and savings accounts
    • Online commerce platform access
    • Payroll assistance
    • ACH payment and origination options
    • Wire services

No matter the size or scope of your business, Confia provides catered commerce solutions to meet specific requirements of higher-risk and emerging industries. 

Confia sets a new standard in financial services, offering a wholly customizable commerce platform designed specifically for the diverse needs of underbanked industries, such as the cannabis industry, and businesses in Montana. 

Contact us to learn more.