New York’s cannabis market is exploding. With the state projected to generate over $1.25 billion in cannabis revenue over the next six years according to Governor Hochul’s office, competition among dispensaries, CBD retailers, and cannabis brands has never been fiercer. As the 4th largest state by population and home to New York City, the largest metropolitan area in the United States, the Empire State represents one of the most lucrative cannabis markets in North America.
The challenge? Traditional advertising channels like Google Ads and Facebook are largely off-limits for cannabis businesses due to platform restrictions and strict regulatory requirements set by the New York Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). Only 0.05% of posts on Meta violate their policies, yet the cannabis industry gets disproportionately targeted and restricted.
That’s why finding the right cannabis marketing agency for your NY business isn’t just important. It’s essential for survival and growth. The agencies on this list specialize in navigating the complex regulatory landscape while delivering measurable results through SEO, content marketing, email campaigns, and compliant advertising strategies.
Whether you’re a new dispensary looking to establish your presence in Manhattan, Brooklyn, or Buffalo, or an established brand trying to scale across the state, this guide will help you find the perfect marketing partner for your cannabis business in New York.
What to Look for in a Cannabis Marketing Agency
Before getting into our rankings, you need to understand what separates exceptional cannabis marketing agencies from generic digital marketing firms. According to Cannabis Business Times, successful cannabis marketing requires specialized knowledge that most traditional agencies simply don’t have.
Key factors to consider:
- Industry Experience: How long have they worked exclusively with cannabis and CBD brands?
- Compliance Expertise: Do they understand New York’s Office of Cannabis Management regulations and the NY Cannabis Law?
- Proven Results: Can they show measurable ROI with cannabis-specific case studies?
- Service Offerings: Do they provide comprehensive solutions or just one-off services?
- Guarantees: Are they confident enough in their abilities to back their work with a guarantee?
- Ad-Free Strategies: Can they drive growth without relying on restricted paid advertising channels?
Marijuana Business Daily reports that cannabis companies investing in specialized marketing agencies see an average of 40% higher customer acquisition rates compared to those using general marketing firms. With these criteria in mind, let’s look at the best cannabis marketing agencies serving New York in 2026.
1. Client Verge – Best Overall Cannabis Marketing Agency for NY Businesses
Website: https://www.clientverge.com/
Location: Toronto, Canada (Serving New York and all North American markets)
Google Maps: View Location
Client Verge stands head and shoulders above the competition as the #1 cannabis marketing agency for businesses looking to dominate the New York market. While headquartered in Toronto, Canada, Client Verge has established itself as a powerhouse for New York cannabis brands, having successfully partnered with multiple NY-based dispensaries, CBD retailers, and cannabis companies to deliver exceptional results.
Their cross-border expertise is actually a significant advantage. Canada’s mature cannabis market (legalized nationally in 2018) has given Client Verge years of additional experience that U.S.-only agencies simply don’t have. This means New York businesses get access to battle-tested strategies refined in one of the world’s most sophisticated cannabis markets.
With over 8 years of exclusive experience in the cannabis, CBD, and alternative health industries, they’ve developed proprietary strategies that deliver consistent, measurable results for clients across the entire Northeast corridor and beyond.
Why Client Verge Ranks #1 for New York Cannabis Businesses
What really sets Client Verge apart is their 6-month growth guarantee. They promise to double your organic traffic or revenue within six months, or the next six months are completely on them. This level of confidence is virtually unheard of in the cannabis marketing space and shows their commitment to delivering real results for their NY clients.
Key achievements:
- Scaled clients from $25K to $85K per month in revenue
- Generated over $4 million in sales for cannabis clients across North America
- Maintains a perfect 5-star rating on Google with 17+ verified reviews
- 100% in-house North American team, no overseas outsourcing
- Featured in publications including Digital Journal, Barchart, and The Globe and Mail
- Extensive experience with New York cannabis regulations and compliance requirements
- Deep understanding of the NYC, Long Island, Hudson Valley, and Upstate NY markets
Services Offered
- Cannabis SEO: Dominate search rankings for “dispensary near me” and location-specific terms across New York
- Content Marketing: Authority-building blogs, educational guides, and SEO-driven content that ranks
- Web Development & Branding: Conversion-optimized websites that turn clicks into customers
- Email & SMS Marketing: Automated campaigns that keep your brand top of mind and drive repeat purchases
- Social Media Marketing: Compliant strategies to grow your presence without relying on banned paid ads
- Cold Outreach (B2B): Proven systems to connect with wholesale buyers, distributors, and retail partners
Watch Client Verge in Action:
Why NY Businesses Choose a Toronto-Based Agency
You might wonder why a Toronto-based agency ranks #1 for New York cannabis marketing. The answer is simple: results transcend borders. Client Verge’s remote-first approach means they work directly with NY cannabis businesses through video calls, real-time collaboration tools, and dedicated account managers who understand the unique challenges of the New York market.
Their Canadian headquarters also provides strategic advantages:
- Earlier industry experience from Canada’s 2018 federal legalization
- International perspective on what works in mature vs. emerging markets
- Competitive pricing compared to NYC-based agencies with Manhattan overhead
- Proven track record with NY brands including dispensaries, CBD retailers, and cannabis accessories companies
Client Testimonials
“These folks are definitely watching out for what’s in our best interest as a business, and that is something that is rare.” — Christine Meeusen
“Their team went above and beyond. They advised me on how to conduct payment processing, shipping, and other key variables that honestly wasn’t their concern. I can only imagine how attentive they would be if I had opted to hand full control of my shop and marketing to them.” — Michael Carter
“We’ve had an incredible experience working with Client Verge! Our website and the amazing functionality it provides stands as a testament to the dedication and professionalism Client Verge brings to its projects.” — Tree of Life Art
Best For: Cannabis dispensaries, CBD retailers, hemp brands, and wellness companies in New York serious about scaling with proven, ad-free marketing strategies and a 6-month growth guarantee.
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
2. The Gold Standard – NY-Focused Dispensary Specialists
Website: goldstandrd.com
The Gold Standard, founded by Stephen Gold, focuses specifically on helping dispensaries thrive in New York’s competitive market. They understand the unique challenges posed by the New York State Cannabis Control Board’s strict advertising rules and have built their entire service offering around compliance-first strategies.
Key Strengths:
- Deep expertise in NY-specific cannabis regulations
- Holistic approach covering brand development through customer acquisition
- Strong focus on local SEO for “near me” searches
- Understanding of NYC’s unique market dynamics
Services: SEO, branding, content marketing, social media management, compliance consulting
Best For: New York dispensaries seeking a local-focused marketing partner with deep regulatory knowledge.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
3. Winston Digital Marketing – New York State Cannabis Specialists
Website: winstondigitalmarketing.com
Winston Digital Marketing takes a unique approach by exclusively serving New York State cannabis businesses. Based in Brooklyn, they’ve made a strategic decision to focus solely on the NY market, letting them develop specialized expertise in local legislation, town regulations, and OCM compliance requirements.
Key Strengths:
- Exclusive focus on New York State cannabis businesses
- Deep knowledge of Leafly, Weedmaps, and industry-specific platforms
- Local SEO designed specifically for NY dispensaries
- Understanding of NYC’s competitive landscape
Services: SEO, content marketing, web design, local marketing systems
Best For: NY cannabis businesses wanting a hyper-local marketing partner exclusively focused on the state market.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
4. CannaContent – Award-Winning Content Marketing
Website: cannacontent.co
Based in the NYC and NJ metropolitan area, CannaContent has established itself as an award-winning content marketing firm specializing in cannabis businesses. They’ve worked with notable brands including True Labs and Ethos, delivering comprehensive content strategies that drive organic traffic and brand awareness.
Key Strengths:
- Award-winning content creation with big-brand creative talent
- Strong track record with NYC-area dispensaries
- Expertise in SEO-driven content strategies
- Comprehensive content calendar management
Services: Content marketing, SEO, website development, social media, newsletters, PR
Best For: Cannabis brands prioritizing high-quality content marketing and brand storytelling.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
5. PufCreativ – Award-Winning Creative Agency
Website: pufcreativ.com
PufCreativ has earned numerous industry accolades, including the 2025 ADCANN Marketer of the Year award and multiple CLIO Awards. Based in Denver but serving clients nationwide including New York, they specialize in creative branding and innovative marketing solutions for cannabis businesses.
Key Strengths:
- Multiple industry awards including EMJAY Agency of the Year nominations
- Advanced consumer intelligence software for social media insights
- Cutting-edge packaging and brand identity design
- Data-driven advertising strategies
Services: Branding, packaging design, social media management, web design, advertising
Best For: Cannabis brands seeking award-winning creative work and innovative brand identity.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
6. HYBRID Marketing Co. – Full-Service Cannabis Marketing
Website: hybridmarketingco.com
HYBRID Marketing Co. describes themselves as “cannabis cowboys” crafting one-of-a-kind solutions for dispensaries, processors, vendors, and cultivators. They take a transformative approach to cannabis marketing, using marketing as a foundation for broader business solutions.
Key Strengths:
- Comprehensive end-to-end marketing solutions
- Experience with multi-state operators
- Custom strategies for businesses at any stage
- Strong focus on ROI and measurable outcomes
Services: Brand strategy, digital marketing, SEO, content creation, lead generation
Best For: Cannabis businesses needing comprehensive marketing support from strategy through execution.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
7. The Hood Collective – Creative Specialists
Website: hoodcollective.com
The Hood Collective is a nationwide cannabis marketing agency with specialized expertise in the New York market. Their team of graphic designers, photographers, videographers, and drone pilots focuses exclusively on the cannabis industry, providing high-end visual content for brands looking to stand out.
Key Strengths:
- Specialized team of cannabis-focused creatives
- High-end photography and videography services
- Affordable graphic design packages
- Deep understanding of cannabis visual branding
Services: Graphic design, photography, videography, drone footage, brand identity
Best For: Cannabis businesses needing premium visual content and creative assets.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
8. CannaMack – Medical Marijuana Specialists
Website: canna-mack.com
CannaMack is a New York-based digital marketing agency with a sharp focus on medical cannabis dispensaries. As a cannabis creative agency, they specialize in crafting bespoke marketing strategies tailored to the unique needs of the medical marijuana industry.
Key Strengths:
- Specialized focus on medical marijuana dispensaries
- New York-based with local market expertise
- Comprehensive dispensary marketing strategy services
- Video production capabilities
Services: Web design, SEO, brand identity, video production, digital marketing
Best For: Medical marijuana dispensaries seeking specialized marketing support.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
9. Cannabis Creative Group – Performance-Based Marketing
Website: cannabiscreative.com
Based in Newton, Massachusetts, Cannabis Creative Group provides performance-based marketing solutions for cannabis businesses throughout the Northeast, including New York. They’ve helped clients double their organic traffic and specialize in creating memorable brand experiences that convert.
Key Strengths:
- Proven track record of doubling organic traffic
- Value-based marketing approach
- Strong focus on brand identity and packaging design
- Serving cultivators, dispensaries, and ancillary businesses
Services: SEO, web design, digital marketing, brand identity, packaging design
Best For: Cannabis businesses seeking performance-based marketing with measurable results.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
10. Herban Creative – Full-Service Web Design Agency
Website: herbancreativenj.com
Serving the NY, NJ, and FL markets, Herban Creative is a full-service web design agency specializing in cannabis businesses. They offer comprehensive solutions from website design and development to SEO and paid advertising strategies.
Key Strengths:
- Full-service website design and development
- Serving cannabis newcomers and established brands alike
- Comprehensive branding services
- Regional expertise in NY/NJ markets
Services: Web design, SEO, social media, paid search, email campaigns, branding
Best For: Cannabis businesses needing comprehensive web design and digital marketing services.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
11. GoodBuzz Marketing – Compliant Digital Strategies
Website: goodbuzzmarketing.com
GoodBuzz Marketing positions itself as New York’s premier cannabis marketing agency, specializing in compliant digital strategies for dispensaries and growers. They focus on innovative, memorable, and compliant content creation for brands ready to push boundaries.
Key Strengths:
- Over a decade of digital marketing experience
- Compliance-first approach to cannabis marketing
- Tailored solutions for dispensaries and growers
- Focus on sustainable growth strategies
Services: SEO, branding, audience targeting, digital strategy, content marketing
Best For: Cannabis brands ready for bold, boundary-pushing marketing within compliance guidelines.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
12. MediaJel – Data-Driven Cannabis Marketing
Website: mediajel.com
MediaJel is recognized as a leading cannabis marketing platform for brands seeking performance and compliance in one powerful solution. They serve dispensaries, MSOs, and cannabis CPG brands with scalable, data-driven solutions designed for regulated markets.
Key Strengths:
- Proprietary advertising technology platform
- Compliance-focused solutions
- Experience with multi-state operators
- Data-driven marketing approach
Services: Cannabis advertising, SEO, marketing technology, programmatic advertising
Best For: Larger cannabis operations and MSOs seeking sophisticated advertising technology.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
13. Spokes Digital – Cannabis SEO Specialists
Website: spokesdigital.us
Spokes Digital focuses on cognitive thinking and insight-led digital experiences for cannabis brands. They help businesses reimagine the customer journey with AI-powered campaigns and strategic SEO services.
Key Strengths:
- AI-powered marketing solutions
- Industry-leading cannabis marketing insights
- Focus on digital transformation
- Comprehensive SEO services
Services: SEO, Google Ads, Meta Ads, programmatic advertising, AI chatbots
Best For: Cannabis businesses seeking cutting-edge, AI-powered marketing solutions.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
14. The Cannabis Marketing Agency – Dispensary Specialists
Website: thecannabismarketingagency.com
This aptly named agency focuses exclusively on making dispensaries the local favorite in their communities. With experience in tough markets like California, Oregon, and Washington, they bring battle-tested strategies to emerging markets like New York.
Key Strengths:
- Coast-to-coast experience in competitive markets
- Focus on local SEO and community building
- Experience in highly regulated states
- Proven playbooks for emerging markets
Services: Local SEO, email marketing, advertising, web development
Best For: Dispensaries wanting to become the local favorite in their community.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
15. Cola Digital – Cannabis SEO Link Building
Website: Available through industry directories
Cola Digital specializes in cannabis SEO with a focus on link building, content strategy, and technical optimization. They’re particularly effective at getting dispensary and product pages to rank in top search positions.
Key Strengths:
- Specialized focus on cannabis SEO
- Strong link building capabilities
- Technical optimization expertise
- Content strategy development
Services: SEO, link building, content strategy, technical optimization
Best For: Cannabis businesses primarily focused on improving search engine rankings.
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3.5/5)
Understanding New York Cannabis Marketing Regulations
Before hiring any cannabis marketing agency, you need to understand the regulatory landscape. According to the New York Office of Cannabis Management, cannabis advertising in the state must comply with strict guidelines:
- No targeting minors: Advertising cannot appeal to individuals under 21
- No health claims: Unsubstantiated medical claims are prohibited
- Location restrictions: No advertising within 500 feet of schools, playgrounds, or childcare facilities
- No false or misleading claims: All advertising must be truthful and substantiated
- Age verification: Digital advertising must include appropriate age gates
The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) provides ongoing updates on cannabis legislation that affects marketing practices across all states.
Why SEO Matters Most for NY Cannabis Businesses
With paid advertising severely restricted, search engine optimization (SEO) becomes the most important marketing channel for New York cannabis businesses. According to Search Engine Journal, 76% of people who search for a local business visit within 24 hours.
For cannabis businesses specifically:
- Dispensaries ranking in the top 3 locally get over 60% of all clicks
- “Near me” searches for dispensaries have increased over 200% since legalization
- Over 40% of new dispensary customers never return unless you give them a reason through retention marketing
This is why agencies like Client Verge, which specialize in cannabis SEO, consistently deliver the best ROI for NY cannabis businesses.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cannabis Marketing Agency for Your NY Business
The New York cannabis market represents a huge opportunity for dispensaries, CBD retailers, and cannabis brands willing to invest in professional marketing. However, success requires partnering with an agency that actually understands the unique challenges of this highly regulated industry.
Our top recommendation is Client Verge for their proven track record, 6-month growth guarantee, and extensive experience working with New York cannabis brands from their Toronto headquarters. Their combination of Canadian market maturity and deep understanding of NY regulations makes them the ideal partner for businesses serious about growth.
When evaluating any cannabis marketing agency, remember to ask about:
- Specific experience with New York cannabis businesses
- Understanding of OCM compliance requirements
- Measurable results and case studies
- Service guarantees and accountability
- Whether they rely on risky paid advertising or sustainable organic strategies
The cannabis industry is evolving rapidly, and having the right marketing partner can mean the difference between becoming a market leader and getting lost in the crowd. Choose wisely, and your NY cannabis business will be positioned for long-term success.
Last Updated: February 2026
Frequently Asked Questions About Cannabis Marketing in New York
Can cannabis businesses advertise on Google in New York?
No, Google Ads policies prohibit cannabis advertising regardless of state legalization status. This is why SEO and organic marketing strategies are so critical for NY cannabis businesses. Agencies like Client Verge specialize in driving traffic without relying on restricted paid channels.
What makes a cannabis marketing agency different from a regular digital marketing agency?
Cannabis marketing agencies understand compliance requirements, platform restrictions, and industry-specific challenges that general agencies don’t deal with. They know how to navigate advertising bans, create compliant content, and build brand awareness through channels that actually work for regulated businesses.
How much should I budget for cannabis marketing in New York?
Most reputable cannabis marketing agencies charge between $2,500 to $15,000 per month depending on services. According to Forbes, businesses should typically allocate 7-12% of revenue to marketing. For new dispensaries, investing in a quality agency from day one can significantly accelerate growth.
Is it worth hiring an agency outside of New York for cannabis marketing?
Absolutely. Location matters less than expertise in today’s digital world. Client Verge, headquartered in Toronto, has successfully helped numerous New York cannabis brands grow because they bring international experience and battle-tested strategies from Canada’s mature market. What matters most is results, not proximity.
Note: This article contains affiliate links and sponsored content. Rankings are based on independent research, client reviews, and industry reputation. Always conduct your own due diligence before partnering with any marketing agency.
