Baltimore, January 27, 2026
The Baltimore business community remembers Michael G. Bronfein, who passed away on January 21, 2026. A co-founder of Curio Wellness, he had a profound impact on the healthcare and cannabis industries, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and philanthropy. His work fostered entrepreneurship in Baltimore, significantly improving community health, and his contributions will be cherished as a beacon for future leaders.
Baltimore, Maryland – The passing of Michael G. Bronfein on January 21, 2026, marks a significant loss for the Baltimore business community and the broader healthcare and cannabis industries. At the age of 70, he left behind a legacy defined by innovation, leadership, and a steadfast commitment to improving community health. As a co-founder of Curio Wellness, Bronfein exemplified the entrepreneurial spirit that propels Maryland’s economic growth and highlights the importance of supporting local innovators.
Bronfein’s career, which spanned over four decades, serves as a reminder of the positive impact that persistent effort and strategic vision can have on communities. His contributions underscore the importance of fostering an environment where entrepreneurship can thrive, reflective of the resilient nature of Baltimore’s small business landscape.
Career Achievements
Bronfein was instrumental in founding several key companies that shaped the healthcare sector. In 1991, he launched NeighborCare from a single pharmacy in Baltimore, growing it into a nationwide leader in pharmacy and clinical services. This foundation set the stage for additional ventures, including the co-founding of Sterling Partners in 1999, a private equity firm which managed approximately $4 billion in assets. Most notably, in 2014 he co-founded Curio Wellness, a pivotal player in Maryland’s medical cannabis market, where he served as chairman and CEO.
Philanthropic Contributions
A hallmark of Bronfein’s life was his dedication to philanthropy. His commitment to community service was evident through his involvement with various boards, including the Greater Baltimore Committee, Signal13 Foundation, and the Harvard Medical School Advisory Board. Moreover, he and his family established the Bronfein Scholars Fund at the University of Baltimore’s Merrick School of Business in 1999, aiding students pursuing degrees in accounting—all initiatives that reflect a commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders.
Legacy and Impact
Bronfein’s influence on the healthcare and cannabis sectors cannot be overstated. Under his leadership, Curio Wellness emerged as a trusted medical cannabis brand, known for its high standards of patient care and innovative products. His entrepreneurial vision has contributed significantly to shaping the industry and improved access to medical cannabis for many patients in Maryland.
Recent Developments
In a strategic move to widen its market presence, Curio Wellness expanded its national footprint by acquiring four high-volume retail dispensaries operating under the Greenlight brand in Missouri in October 2025. This acquisition not only enhances Curio’s retail capabilities but also increases its access to a growing customer base, reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering quality medical cannabis solutions.
Conclusion
Michael G. Bronfein leaves a remarkable legacy characterized by entrepreneurial acumen and a profound dedication to community philanthropy. His contributions to the fields of healthcare and cannabis will be remembered fondly, as will his passion for fostering innovation and growth in Baltimore and beyond. As the community reflects on his contributions, there is a renewed call to support local businesses and engage in Baltimore’s promising economic future.
FAQ
- Who was Michael G. Bronfein?
- Michael G. Bronfein was the CEO and co-founder of Curio Wellness, a leading medical cannabis brand in Maryland. He was known for his entrepreneurial achievements and philanthropic efforts in the healthcare and cannabis industries.
- What companies did Michael G. Bronfein co-found?
- Michael G. Bronfein co-founded NeighborCare in 1991, Sterling Partners in 1999, and Curio Wellness in 2014.
- What philanthropic contributions did Michael G. Bronfein make?
- Michael G. Bronfein served on various boards, including the Greater Baltimore Committee, Signal13 Foundation, Harvard Medical School Advisory Board, and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. In 1999, he and his family established the Bronfein Scholars Fund at the University of Baltimore’s Merrick School of Business.
- What was Curio Wellness’s recent acquisition?
- In October 2025, Curio Wellness acquired four high-volume retail dispensaries in Missouri operating under the Greenlight brand, aiming to expand its national footprint and enhance its retail portfolio.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Career Achievements | Co-founded NeighborCare, Sterling Partners, and Curio Wellness; led Curio Wellness to become a leading medical cannabis brand in Maryland. |
| Philanthropic Contributions | Served on various boards; established the Bronfein Scholars Fund at the University of Baltimore’s Merrick School of Business. |
| Recent Developments | In October 2025, Curio Wellness acquired four high-volume retail dispensaries in Missouri operating under the Greenlight brand. |
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Michael Bronfein: A Pillar of Baltimore’s Business Community
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
