Chicago Atlantic deployed a $20 million facility in senior secured financing to Nova Farms, a fully integrated cannabis operator managing a Massachusetts cultivation farm, seven retail brands, and five full-service dispensaries across Massachusetts, Maine, and New Jersey.
Chicago Atlantic's capital investment will support Nova Farms' efforts to expand its footprint of dispensaries in key states, including New Jersey, a burgeoning market that has earned more than $1.3 billion since the beginning of adult-use cannabis sales in April 20221, and Connecticut, which legalized adult-use cannabis in January 2023 and saw $274 million in revenue in its first year2.
Nova Farms was among the first to secure licenses in Massachusetts upon the state's legalization of adult-use cannabis back in 2016. Its new openings to date have shown a consistent track record of growth and profitability. This trajectory solidifies Nova Farms' rising prominence in the cannabis industry, positioning the company for unparalleled success in the evolving market.
"Nova Farms has demonstrated its ability to operate successfully and identify attractive opportunities to accelerate its progress. We have every confidence in their plans to open additional locations across the Northeast, which will support their mission to increase safe and positive accessibility," said Peter Sack, Partner at Chicago Atlantic.
With the legal U.S. cannabis industry expected to reach nearly $40 billion in 20243, Nova Farms and other multi-state operators are experiencing increased demand for high-quality retail products and convenient points of purchase. As Nova Farms continues to meet this demand, they invite equity investors to join them in their journey of expansion and innovation.
"Our partnership with Chicago Atlantic marks a new chapter in our longstanding contributions to the industry. We are extremely proud of our ability to control quality and efficiency in each element of our supply chain. It's an honor to have a financial partner who believes in our integrated approach working directly with our team to chart a roadmap for realizing our goals," said Derek Ross, CEO of Nova Farms. This collaboration not only accelerates Nova Farms' strategic plans but also ensures its competitive edge as a leader in the cannabis market.
The next Nova Farms retail opening is planned for late 2024. This expansion reflects Nova's commitment to enhancing accessibility to quality cannabis products and reinforces their vision for a future where Nova Farms is synonymous with excellence in the cannabis industry.