BALTIMORE — A state panel charged with regulating Maryland's new medical-marijuana industry announced an agreement Tuesday for Towson University to serve as a consultant on applications from entities seeking licenses as cannabis growers, processors and dispensers.

In its agreement with the Natalie M. LaPrade Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission, Towson's Regional Economic Studies Institute, or RESI, will provide oversight in developing applications and assist in managing applicant evaluations, according to a news release issued by the commission.

The panel anticipates that applications and instructions for prospective growers, processors and dispensers will be available on its website in September.

"Working with RESI will enable the commission to expedite the application development and evaluation processes by tapping into a network of industry experts nationwide," Hannah Byron, executive director of the state commission, said in the release.

A number of companies have taken steps to get involved in Maryland's new medical cannabis industry, including...