Quantum 9

The legalization of cannabis in various U.S. states has ignited a ‘green rush,’ attracting many entrepreneurs and investors to capitalize on the burgeoning markets for recreational and medical cannabis.

Evidently, this surge has created fierce competition for obtaining licenses, with demand skyrocketing, availability remaining limited and state-specific regulations creating a complex maze to navigate.

Quantum 9 excels in this high-pressure landscape.

In markets like Florida, where the number of licenses issued is quite low compared to other states, the competition is especially intense. The value of these licenses ranges between $5 and $60 million. Quantum 9’s specialty lies in securing these lucrative permits by compiling and submitting the most comprehensive applications with the utmost accuracy.

With a proven track record—a 90.12 percent success rate in winning marijuana business licenses—Quantum 9 is a pivotal guide for businesses striving to secure a place in this competitive market. Its targeted approach, sometimes working exclusively with one client per market, underscores the commitment and effectiveness of its licensing strategies.

Michael Mayes, founder and CEO, describes his company’s role with a football analogy. “We act as the quarterback for the entire submission process. We coordinate efforts between our and the client's teams, working together to achieve success—much like scoring a touchdown.”

His team handles crucial components such as facility design, technical documentation, standard operating procedures and team recruitment. They engage closely with clients, conducting weekly team meetings over a six-month period. During these sessions, the team analyzes the scoring metrics used in cannabis license applications to identify the most heavily weighted sections. For instance, if a total of 100 points is possible, specific sections like the financials or team expertise might be worth 20 points each, while record keeping and security might be valued at five points each. This strategic insight allows them to pinpoint potential gaps in their clients’ applications and proactively address them.


This rigorous documentation process not only prepares clients for regulatory scrutiny but positions them as strong contenders in highly competitive markets.

The team has prepared detailed narratives and developed hundreds of SOPs that cover every facet of the cannabis business—from cultivation and processing to dispensing—ensuring compliance and safety.

This effectiveness is reflected in Quantum 9 consistently achieving top scores, often ranking within the top three and regularly securing first place in the highly competitive markets in which it operates.

One of the top three multi-state cannabis operators recently approached Quantum 9 seeking assistance in securing licenses in the South. The collaboration gained fruitful results, with the client achieving the highest score in the state and securing first place.

The collaboration doesn’t end with license acquisition. Quantum 9’s M&A side of business has been thriving over the past few years, bolstered by the firm’s deep industry connections and nearly two decades of experience since its inception in 2009. The team’s M&A expertise—specifically facilitating the sale of licenses at strategic exit points—has emerged as a highly sought-after service in recent years.

The advisory services follow a comprehensive lifecycle. Initially, it focuses on business planning—determining our strategic approach and execution. The next phase involves submitting and obtaining the necessary licenses or permits. Following that, it provides operational support to help establish and optimize cultivation, processing or dispensing facilities from scratch, including staffing and the development of detailed protocols and procedures. Toward the end of the lifecycle, typically after three to five years, Quantum 9 also assists in selling the organization.

Today, Quantum 9’s reputation for client dedication is backed by numerous letters of recommendation from elected officials and glowing feedback from former clients. The company’s tireless work ethic, even under immense pressure, including working extra hours for last-minute application pushes, sets it apart in the industry.