CPG Co-Manufacturing Agreements: Who Owns the Formula, Process, and Manufacturing Know-How?
A CPG brand may own its trademark, packaging, and even its formula without owning all of the know-how required to manufacture the product somewhere else. Understanding the difference between manufacturing, formulation, and development services is critical to protecting portability and long-term brand value.
Minnesota Cannabis Market: Legal Issues, Supply and Testing Constraints, and What Operators Need to Get Right
Since the launch of adult-use cannabis in Minnesota, operators, investors, and landlords have moved quickly to secure licenses, locations, and capital. But the early reality of the market is not about rapid scale. It is about navigating supply and testing constraints, local control, and regulatory friction—all at the same time.
Key Negotiation Levers That Actually Move the Needle in Startup Transactions
In startup transactions, the difference between a good deal and a great one often comes down to how well the key negotiation levers are understood, structured, and executed. Early-stage deals are rarely won or lost on headline valuation alone. The real economics—and risks—are embedded in the structure of the agreement. For startups and cannabis operators in particular, where regulatory friction and capital constraints are constant, the right negotiation levers can materially