How do I open a cannabis retail store? (Part 2)

In Part 1, we covered the first three steps to opening a cannabis retail store: 1) notice to the local government, fire authority, and police force; 2) obtaining a Retail Operator Licence; and 3) obtaining a Cannabis Retail Store Authorization. In Part 2, we will cover the last three steps: 4) obtaining a Cannabis Retail [...]

How do I open a cannabis retail store? (Part 1)

  Since recreational cannabis was legalized in 2018, the cannabis retail industry in Ontario has boomed. There are numerous laws, regulations, and rules floating around in a variety of resources, which can make understanding and undertaking the process of opening a cannabis retail store a challenge. This blog is intended to eliminate the extra research [...]

What should I include in my Shareholder Agreement?

Most shareholder agreements will address the following core issues with appropriately customized terms: (a) decision making; (b) restrictions on share transfers and ownership of shares; (c) financing; (d) pre-emptive rights; (e) rights of first refusal; (f) mandatory sales of shares; (g) conflict resolution; (h) non-competition, non-solicitation, and non-disclosure; and (i) shareholder exit strategies. Decision making [...]

What is a shareholder agreement and why do I need one?

A shareholder agreement is a written agreement between shareholders, which sets out shareholder rights, protections, and obligations; the method by which shares will be valued; and how the corporation and its business will be structured, managed, and operated. A shareholder agreement can ensure that shareholders are treated fairly and can minimize disagreements by clarifying how [...]

Incorporation (Part 5): Your first meeting with a lawyer

Once you have gathered the necessary information, and if you have decided to incorporate, the next step is to meet with a business lawyer who will start-up and help maintain your corporation with the best interests of your business in mind. To streamline and tailor your experience with your lawyer, it is helpful to prepare [...]