Michael H. Cardozo

Mike brings a unique and varied background to Funk & Bolton’s Government Relations practice with over a decade of experience as an entrepreneur and business leader in a heavily regulated Maryland industry. Prior to joining Funk & Bolton, Mike learned the inner workings of the General Assembly as a Legislative Director on the Senate Finance Committee. He understands what it’s like to operate a regulated business, and to write and defend the legislation that governs it. These dueling perspectives make Mike an effective conduit between industry and regulators, facilitating constructive dialogue that yields good policy. 

In 2015, Mike co-founded Chesapeake Alternatives, Maryland’s first medical cannabis processor and dispensary. As CEO, he completed the state’s first legal cannabis transaction and led the company to its 2018 acquisition by Green Thumb Industries. He was a founding board member of the Maryland Medical Cannabis Wholesale Trade Association (CANMD), and went on to found Karuna Ventures and Severn River Strategies, consulting on government affairs and licensing nationwide. 

In Annapolis, Mike served as Legislative Director to Senator Dawn Gile during the 2026 legislative session, where he was responsible for overseeing her legislative agenda and advising on bills being heard before the Senate Finance Committee.  During his time as Legislative Director, he guided vital legislation to the Governor’s desk, including bills strengthening protections for children from sexual abuse and expanding access to women’s health care. The role gave him an insider’s understanding of how legislation moves through Annapolis.   

Mike spent more than a decade as a Firefighter/EMT with the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad, an experience that instilled the work ethic and composure under pressure that define his approach to Government Relations. 

At Funk & Bolton, Mike advises clients on Maryland’s legislative and business landscape by drawing on his relationships across the General Assembly, state agencies, and advocacy organizations. 

Mike earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Miami and lives in Severna Park, Maryland. He is a longtime volunteer with the Mid-Atlantic Burn Camp and enjoys spending time on the Chesapeake Bay during his time off.