Baltimore, January 24, 2026
The passing of Michael Bronfein, CEO of Curio Wellness, has left a significant impact on Baltimore’s business and philanthropic sectors. Co-founding Curio in 2014, he transformed the company into Maryland’s largest cannabis enterprise. Known for his diverse career and extensive philanthropic efforts, Bronfein’s legacy of fostering entrepreneurship and community engagement will influence future business leaders in the region.
Michael Bronfein: A Pillar of Baltimore’s Business Community
A look at the life and legacy of the Curio Wellness CEO
Baltimore, Maryland – The recent passing of Michael Bronfein, the 70-year-old CEO of Curio Wellness, marks a significant loss for Baltimore’s business, philanthropic, and political arenas. Renowned for his entrepreneurial spirit and steadfast commitment to community development, Bronfein’s impact on local and statewide economic growth will be felt for years to come. His contributions to Maryland’s cannabis industry and his previous ventures laid the groundwork for a thriving business culture that emphasizes innovation and investment.
Bronfein co-founded Curio Wellness in 2014 with his daughter, and under his guidance, the company transformed into Maryland’s largest cannabis enterprise. The flagship dispensary, Far & Dotter, located in Timonium, illustrates Curio’s commitment to quality and community service, helping to pioneer an industry that offers both wellness solutions and economic opportunity.
Prominent Career and Diverse Background
Before stepping into the cannabis sector, Bronfein cultivated a diverse career across multiple industries including banking, retail, and healthcare. In 1991, he co-founded NeighborCare, which evolved from a local pharmacy to a nationwide leader in pharmaceutical and clinical services. His leadership extended to co-founding Sterling Partners, a private equity firm that experienced substantial growth, accumulating around $4 billion in assets.
Philanthropy and Civic Engagement
In addition to his business pursuits, Bronfein was deeply committed to philanthropy, serving on numerous boards including the Greater Baltimore Committee and the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. His involvement with the Signal13 Foundation, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, and The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore exemplifies his dedication to enhancing Baltimore’s civic landscape.
Legacy of Institutional Development
Upon his passing, the impact of Bronfein’s work resonates throughout Baltimore, attributed not only to his success as a business leader but also as an institutional builder. His approach to encouraging entrepreneurship and fostering a supportive business climate has inspired a generation of Maryland entrepreneurs who are eager to innovate and lead.
Response from the Community
The response to Bronfein’s passing highlights the respect and admiration he garnered from various sectors. Many community members acknowledge his role in facilitating a business-friendly environment that empowers local entrepreneurs. His legacy serves as a reminder of the benefits of limited regulation and supportive policies, which are crucial in cultivating economic growth.
Conclusion
Michael Bronfein’s contributions to Baltimore extend far beyond the success of Curio Wellness. His entrepreneurial spirit, commitment to public service, and innovative mindset have left a lasting imprint on the city’s business climate. As Baltimore continues to grow and adapt, the principles Bronfein championed can guide future generations of business leaders. Supporting local businesses and advocating for reduced red tape can help ensure that the legacy of innovators like Bronfein lives on. Let us remain engaged in Baltimore’s economic future by championing resilience and initiative from our local entrepreneurs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who was Michael Bronfein?
Michael Bronfein was the CEO of Curio Wellness, Maryland’s largest cannabis company, and a prominent business leader, philanthropist, and political fundraiser in Baltimore.
What was Curio Wellness?
Curio Wellness is a cannabis company operating as a grower and manufacturer in Maryland’s cannabis industry, known for its flagship dispensary, Far & Dotter, in Timonium.
What other businesses did Michael Bronfein co-found?
Before his involvement in the cannabis industry, Bronfein co-founded NeighborCare, a nationwide leader in pharmaceutical and clinical services, and Sterling Partners, a private equity fund.
What philanthropic organizations was Michael Bronfein involved with?
Bronfein served on the boards of the Greater Baltimore Committee, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, the Signal13 Foundation, the Harvard Medical School Advisory Board, and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. He was also a longtime supporter of The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore.
What impact did Michael Bronfein have on Baltimore?
Bronfein was regarded as both a builder of companies and a builder of institutions, leaving a significant void in Baltimore’s business, philanthropic, and political communities upon his passing.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| CEO of Curio Wellness | Michael Bronfein was the CEO of Curio Wellness, Maryland’s largest cannabis company, known for its flagship dispensary, Far & Dotter, in Timonium. |
| Career Background | Before his involvement in the cannabis industry, Bronfein co-founded NeighborCare, a nationwide leader in pharmaceutical and clinical services, and Sterling Partners, a private equity fund. |
| Philanthropic Involvement | Bronfein served on the boards of the Greater Baltimore Committee, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, the Signal13 Foundation, the Harvard Medical School Advisory Board, and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. He was also a longtime supporter of The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore. |
| Impact on Baltimore | Bronfein was regarded as both a builder of companies and a builder of institutions, leaving a significant void in Baltimore’s business, philanthropic, and political communities upon his passing. |
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Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
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