Freshly Baked NYC Becomes NY's 1st Social Equity Operator To Secure 2nd Dispensary License

Freshly Baked NYC, a proudly family-owned cannabis dispensary rooted in the heart of the Bronx’s Little Italy, is once again blazing trails in New York’s cannabis industry. On June 5, 2025, the shop’s co-founder David Nicponski became the first New York State social equity licensee to be awarded a second adult-use cannabis retail license under the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA) program.

This achievement marks a significant step forward for the goals of the MRTA, which aimed to redress the harms of prohibition by prioritizing opportunity for communities most impacted by the war on drugs. David’s second license is a testament to the viability and resilience of truly independent, family-operated cannabis enterprises under MRTA’s restorative justice framework.

The milestone sets Freshly Baked NYC apart from other multi-location dispensaries across the state, many of which operate under licensing agreements or investor-led models. In contrast, Freshly Baked remains 100% family-owned and operated, a rare distinction in a rapidly corporatizing market. The business will soon unveil its second location—another step in its grassroots-driven expansion.

Freshly Baked NYC's Founders David And Pamela Nicponski On Building Community In The Bronx

Founded by the husband-and-wife team of David and Pamela Nicponski, Freshly Baked NYC first opened its doors at 2375 Arthur Avenue in May 2024. Since then, the shop has become a trusted source of top-quality, lab-tested cannabis, operating in a safe, inclusive, and community-centered space.

“We’ve always believed that cannabis legalization should lift up the people who’ve been most impacted by the drug war,” Pamela says. “This is proof that community-focused family-operated business can succeed, and grow, on our own terms.”

“We’re building something real,” David states. “This milestone affirms our belief that equity operators can not only survive but thrive without diluting ownership or mission. We’re showing the state, and the industry, what real restorative participation looks like… It’s been a lot of work, and we’re proud to do it our way—with integrity, family, and purpose.”

What's Next For Freshly Baked NYC?

At its core, Freshly Baked NYC is built on a foundation of public health, consumer safety, and economic justice. As a social equity licensee, its success marks a meaningful step forward in fulfilling the MRTA’s broader goal: delivering restorative opportunity and industry access to those disproportionately harmed by past cannabis enforcement.

As the New York cannabis landscape continues to evolve, Freshly Baked NYC stands as a model for what equitable growth can look like—driven by values, not just valuation.

To learn more, visit freshlybaked.nyc.