With major strides having been made across the globe towards the decriminalization and legalization of cannabis, an increasing number of conferences, conventions, expositions, trade shows, and festivals have sprung up, providing industry experts, scientists, recreational users, therapeutic supporters, and would-be ‘cannapreneurs’ with a wealth of networking and educational opportunities.
These events are of great importance to the industry in terms of the dissemination of information, combating harmful stereotypes, dispelling myths, promoting use, and showcasing new innovations in both products and technology. This is all while both federal and local governments around the globe continue to contend with the complexities of regulating the burgeoning cannabis market.
Types of Cannabis Events
While there are differences between a conference, convention, expo, trade show, and festival – event organizers will usually blur the lines between them. They may also refer to an event as one type when in fact it is of another type entirely.
This overview will demystify the various types of cannabis events so that you can choose the appropriate type for your particular needs.
Conferences
Cannabis conferences are organized with the intention of bringing together individuals for a common purpose, revolving around cannabis. They provide an opportunity for attendees to expand their cannabis knowledge through presentations from industry leaders, investors, doctors, patients, and those at the forefront of innovation. They also offer insights into legislative developments and shed light on changes anticipated in the future which may impact stakeholders.
An overarching theme tends to predominate at these events. Presentation styles may include speeches featuring new industry developments or case studies, Q&A sessions, and interactive round table discussions which provoke debate and inspire out-of-the-box thinking.
Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference
Put on by Benzinga, the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference is a gathering of investors and entrepreneurs across four cities:
Connecting businesses with investors is the primary objective of this event, allowing for further growth and development of the cannabis industry. Any and all topics relevant to the present state of the industry are discussed, such as the volatility of the market, as well as regulatory shifts.
The conferences themselves facilitate literal one-on-one meetings with both industry heavyweights and private companies. Entrepreneurs and investors get to converge in an incubator for the establishment of professional relationships. Panels, keynotes, and company presentations make a strong presence at the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, providing market statistics, insider insights, and information on the latest industry innovations.
Featuring some of the largest growers, cultivators, and businesses in the cannabis sector, this is a conference where relationships are fostered and where networking is the highlight.
MjMicro
MjMicro is a cannabis conference held in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, that specifically targets investors with rising small-cap and micro-cap companies working within the cannabis industry. C-level executives from the best public cannabis companies lead forums with high-net-worth investors in order to maximize their investment returns in this industry.
Some of the topics discussed during the conference include how to navigate the legal and compliance regulatory landscape, angel-to-venture capital investing, retail opportunities for CBD, and the pros and cons of going public versus staying private.
One of the unique opportunities available at MjMicro is the ability to talk one-on-one in order to advance investments into large cannabis enterprises. Insights into growth plans and sound structured investments are readily available at this conference. This event excels in being an incubator of private capital investment in public cannabis businesses.
MJBizCon
The Marijuana Business Conference, also known as MJBizCon, is marketed as being the largest gathering of cannabis business professionals in the world. There are 35,000 attendees every year, including 1,500+ CEOs, 8,000+ executive/c-level, 1,250+ investors, and 1,300+ exhibitors – the programming is designed to benefit every sector.
At MJBizCon, you will have the opportunity to learn about aspects of the cannabis industry such as: Emerging cannabis markets (both domestically and internationally), licensing ins and outs, finances and banking, industry insights, regulatory outlook, branding and marketing business strategies, business strategies to grow your cannabis-based business, ancillary cannabis businesses and opportunities, retail opportunities, the future of the CBD market, and more.
MJBizCon is normally held during December in Las Vegas, there may be no other place like it to equip your business for growth.
International Cannabis Business Conference
International Cannabis Business Conference is the largest cannabis industry trade show and B2B networking event in Europe, bringing together industry leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs from all over the world to discuss the exciting future of the expanding cannabis market. This event is a must-visit for anyone seeking success in the cannabis industry – including ancillary businesses. Each day of ICBC offers a full schedule of engaging speaker presentations, an expo hall introducing the latest innovations and most interesting cannabis companies, as well as plenty of time to network and connect.
ICBC’s 2023 conferences will be held in Barcelona, Spain, in March, and in Berlin, Germany, in June. Additionally, ICBC is hosting a Global Investment Forum the day prior to Berlin’s B2B conference, providing exclusive networking opportunities for those serious about investing in cannabis as well as those seeking capital.
Native American Cannabis & Hemp Conference
Now in its ninth year, The Native American Cannabis & Hemp Conference brings together industry experts, Tribal Leaders, and decision-makers to share information regarding the evolving legal landscape of the cannabis and hemp industries throughout the country. You will hear success stories and discuss best practices for creating regulated, legal, safe, and high-quality products in your communities – while enjoying ample opportunities to network and connect with Tribal Leaders and industry professionals. This is a must-attend event if your Tribe has already entered this complex market or is considering other means to drive revenue and create jobs. This is also a unique opportunity for professionals with products or expertise to take advantage of the many benefits of entering a business relationship with a Tribe.
The Ninth Native American Cannabis & Hemp Conference will take place June 18-19, 2024, at the Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California. This event is held in conjunction with Native Nation Events’ Housing, Healthcare, Economic Development, and Financial Management Conferences, and admission to one grants entry to all five.
Florida Medical Cannabis Conference & Exhibition
Now in its sixth year, Can-Ed, Inc.’s immersive networking and educational cannabis conference offers visitors from all sectors of the industry and medical field the opportunity to learn from and connect with elite industry players and medical professionals alike. FMCCE 2023 will include a lineup of interesting lectures covering the latest evidence-based research in the medicinal application of cannabis – as well as a host of other topics essential to anyone running (or considering starting) a business in this industry. FMCCE also features a full expo hall and dedicated networking sessions throughout each day of the conference.
This year, FMCCE is also hosting the Florida Medical Cannabis Physicians Group’s annual meeting. FMCCE 2023 is scheduled for June 2-4, at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando, Florida.
Cannabis Business Europe 2023
Cannabis Business Europe 2023 is an exciting opportunity to learn from and network with esteemed industry experts from all over the world, including the leaders of Europe’s top medical cannabis, hemp, and CBD companies. This fully immersive two-day event is full of educational presentations, hands-on workshops, pitch sessions, and interactive discussion groups covering the latest news, innovations, and business strategies in these developing markets.
This conference allows attendees to customize their experience, selecting the topics and sessions of most interest, as well as providing ample opportunities for networking and connection, including an evening reception. Cannabis Business Europe 2023 will take place on 25 and 26 May in Bad Homburg, just north of Frankfurt, Germany. Visitors receive a 25% discount on tickets with the code CNBS25.
Cannabis Business Asia-Pacific 2023
Cannabis Business Asia-Pacific is the top B2B networking event in the region, giving visitors the opportunity to network and learn from some of the cannabis and hemp industry’s best and brightest innovators and experts. The most prestigious cannabis companies in the Asian-Pacific market share their best practices and future strategies on Cannabis, Hemp & CBD through a mix of case-study presentations, interactive roundtable discussions, hands-on workshops, Q&A sessions, think tanks, and tech-supported networking.
Attendees have the option to customize their experience by selecting their preferred content track and the individual sessions that interest them most, with the option to live-stream some content. This event will take place on 28 February and 1 March in Bangkok, Thailand. Visitors receive a 25% discount on tickets with the code CNBS25.
Cannabis Business Africa 2023
Cannabis Business Africa 2023 is the leading industry networking conference for Africa’s developing medical cannabis and hemp markets. This immersive two-day event brings together industry innovators, medical professionals, and other cannabinoid experts from all over the world for interactive roundtable discussions, case-study presentations, hands-on workshops, and Q&A sessions, plus numerous networking opportunities over coffee, lunch, and a relaxed evening reception.
Attendance is limited to 150 guests, and visitors have the option to narrow their focus on their preferred content track – covering everything from cannabis, hemp, and CBD regulation and business strategy to best industry practices in cultivation, production, and more. This event will take place on 19 and 20 September in Cape Town, South Africa. Visitors receive a 25% discount with the code CNBS25.
Conventions
Cannabis conventions are resource hubs for the rapidly expanding cannabis industry. These are events where businesses, entrepreneurs, investors, educators, patients, advocates, and consumers can all connect, learn, and grow. They are focused on the local market needs of wherever they are held, but also tie those needs into the industry at large.
NECANN
Within the northeast region of the US, NECANN is a key cannabis industry event, boasting over 10,000 attendees, 300+ exhibitors, and 100+ speakers each year. NECANN is a valuable resource hub for the rapidly-growing cannabis industry, with each convention giving businesses, entrepreneurs, investors, educators, patients, advocates, and consumers the opportunity to learn, grow, connect, and expand their network. NECANN’s dedicated focus on each individual local market creates a uniquely targeted experience and high ROI for exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees.
NECANN’s two-day conventions are held in the spring and summer months throughout the northeastern United States, with 2023’s location schedule including Boston, Chicago, Burlington, Hartford, Augusta, Atlantic City, and Albany.
GCI Europe
GCI Europe is an annual conference/convention focused on networking, medical marijuana, and research. Held by the Global Cannabis Institute, this event takes place in London each November. It draws representatives from all corners of the cannabis industry, including those involved in policy and legislation, investors, researchers, doctors, retailers, and distributors. It is a comprehensive event that fosters an atmosphere of collaboration and innovation in the burgeoning European cannabis industry.
At the GCI Europe convention, attendees can develop their own schedules based on their interests. There are two primary forums — “Medicine, Research, and Science,” which focuses on the newest developments in medical cannabis, and “Winning Business Strategies,” which considers the future of the European cannabis market. There are also interactive breakout streams that explore the intricacies of the emerging cannabis industry in six different countries.
This event is a premier networking opportunity with leaders from the international community. The culture of GCI strives to achieve more than simply networking – participants can expect to leave with new solutions with which to move forward, new research to fuel their ideas, as well as new friends and colleagues.
Expositions & Trade Shows
Cannabis expositions and trade shows are public exhibitions that operate as a microcosm of the activities taking place in the cannabis market. They tend to offer an array of activities for a much more engaging experience with the subject matter of the day. They also feature inherent dynamism. This is created by the presence of interactive exhibits, workshops, the showcasing of innovative technology by various vendors, and the wide variety of participants from different industries and walks of life.
Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition
Now in its 9th year, one of the cannabis industry’s leading B2B trade shows, The Cannabis World Congress & Business Expo brings together entrepreneurs and highly qualified professionals, for three immersive days of workshops, speaker presentations, numerous dedicated networking sessions, and after-hours parties. An expansive exhibition hall features the best and brightest new innovations of the cannabis industry, with highlighted sections showcasing both female industry and ancillary entrepreneurs and educational institutions with cannabis industry tracks, classes, and majors. This expo is the perfect opportunity for anyone with an interest in the cannabis business sector – from cultivators, processors, and dispensary owners to investors and government regulators – to dive deep into the current political, legal, therapeutic, and social environments surrounding cannabis, and discover what it means for their businesses. With New York’s newly expanded recreational cannabis market in mind, this year’s CWCBExpo is poised to offer local attendees an exceptionally influential networking and educational experience.
CWCBExpo 2023 will be held June 1-3, at the Javits Convention Center in New York City.
CannaTech
Presented by Emerging Industry Professionals, CannaTech is a series of B2B summits and expos that give cannabis and hemp industry professionals the unique opportunity to learn, explore, network, and connect over each of its immersive two-day events. CannaTech is the largest cannabis business event in the midwestern US (and in Puerto Rico), with each expo featuring a huge exhibition hall showcasing the latest cannabis and hemp cultivation and processing equipment. Visitors can also attend dozens of fascinating seminars given by top industry experts, covering a wide range of aspects from licensing, cultivation, and production to banking, hiring, insurance, and more. Additionally, networking opportunities are built directly into the event schedule with mixers, brunches, and more.
CannaTech’s 2023 dates and locations are as follows: Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, May 3-4; Cincinnati, Ohio, June 28-29; Kansas City, Missouri, October 26-27; and San Juan, Puerto Rico, July 26-27.
CB Expo – Cannabis Business Expo & Conference
CB Expo 2023 brings together cannabis industry professionals from across Europe for two days of business networking and educational lectures focused on the opportunities cannabis legalization will open up for Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, Malta, and Luxembourg – and how best to take advantage of them. Visitors can enjoy browsing a relaxed, informal expo hall showcasing some of the world’s best and most innovative cannabis, hemp, and CBD offerings, and enjoy reception and after-parties in the Brauturm – with food and drink included in the ticket price. A smoking lounge is also available for guests’ enjoyment.
CB Expo 2023 will take place 15-16 September at Kongress Dortmund, at the same time as the industry-adjacent InterTabac expo.
XpoCanna
Hosting conventions, expos, and trade shows throughout the year dedicated to the cannabis industry and consumers, XpoCanna offers excellent education and networking opportunities for cannabis consumers, enthusiasts, current and prospective industry and medical professionals, and even those considering medical marijuana treatment.
These events combine informational seminars, panel discussions, Q&A sessions, and a trade floor filled with innovative offerings from CBD, hemp, and cannabis brands, patient advocates, and representatives of organizations serving patients and the industry at large. Industry and medical professionals will also enjoy networking opportunities with businesses, investors, and ancillary professionals of all types. XpoCanna’s upcoming events in 2023 are the Montana Cannabis Expo, to be held May 18-19 at the MetraPark Expo Center in Billings, Montana, and the LeHigh Valley Cannabis Expo, to take place October 28-29 at the Allentown Fairgrounds Agri-Center in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
4.20 Hempfest
Unlike its name suggests, 4.20 Hempfest is actually an expo and is not just about hemp. Located in Milan, Italy, this event is held in an 8,000 sqm center, featuring over 170 exhibitors and attracting thousands of attendees from all over the world. The main goal of 4.20 Hempfest is to educate the public about the many uses and benefits of hemp. In addition to hemp and industrial hemp, there is also a focus on extracted CBD, seed banks, and various cannabis paraphernalia. Information, music, and entertainment can all be found at 4.20 Hempfest as well.
A unique component of 4.20 Hempfest is the inclusion of the Cannabis Light Cup. This is a cannabis competition lasting three days with four categories: indoor, outdoor, greenhouse, and extracts. Over the course of the Cup, awards are given out to the best products based on a public vote. Producers and growers from all over the world come to take part in this competition.
Cultiva Hemp Expo
This exciting expo is the place for hemp enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and investors from all over the world to connect, learn, and discover the latest hemp industry trends, innovations, and news. Cultiva Hemp Expo aims to give its visitors an in-depth look at the diversity of hemp as a medicine, food, and raw material. Expo guests can try out thousands of new hemp-based products, attend fascinating specialist lectures and discussions led by some of the world’s top hemp experts, take part in hands-on workshops, and even enjoy concerts and other entertainment.
Now in its 16th year, Cultiva Hemp Expo will be held in two locations in 2024 – Hala in Zagreb, Croatia on 10-12 May, as well as its traditional setting in the esteemed historic MARX HALLE in the heart of Vienna, Austria, on 4-6 October.
CannaDouro
CannaDouro is Portugal’s biggest and most exciting cannabis fair, conference, and exhibition, all in one. This two-day event includes access to a full expo hall showcasing the most innovative new cannabis products and up-and-coming brands, alongside the most interesting and impactful cannabis associations. CannaDouro guests also gain access to a conference of fascinating educational lectures covering recreational cannabis, medical marijuana, hemp, and more.
A vape lounge, afterparty, and music will make this event even more fun and enjoyable. This sixth CannaDouro cannabis fair will take place on 18-19 November 2023 in Porto, at the historic Centro de Congressos da Alfandega.
Athens Cannabis Expo
The Athens Cannabis Expo is an annual event geared towards educating the public about the latest products and developments in the cannabis world. Discussion and information about the medical, pharmaceutical, and industrial use of cannabis is heavily focused on. Some of the industry’s leading companies showcase their latest products and services, ranging from cultivation, medical equipment, food and beverages, cosmetics, and much more.
This trendy Greek cannabis-themed event, which is normally held in January, features over 7,000 square meters of exhibitions, 150+ exhibitors, 20+ speakers, and 10+ DJ sets. This event caters to both the B2B and B2C arenas, bringing together the entire cannabis world under one roof.
Greece is a completely new market for the cannabis industry and has extraordinary opportunities for businesses looking to expand their reach into this country of 10 million people.
CannaTrade
For 22 years, this fun and interesting international cannabis trade fair/festival hybrid has been a must-visit for anyone interested in the rapidly expanding cannabis, hemp, and CBD markets. From fascinating educational lectures on all sorts of cannabis-related topics to an exposition hall showcasing the latest innovations in hemp-based medicine, art, food, and cultivation, CannaTrade truly offers something for everyone – and is even dog-friendly! This event also includes a dedicated B2B networking area, fun competitions, such as the CannaSwissCup, a spacious outdoor smoking lounge, music, vendors, and more. CannaTrade 2023 will take place in Zurich, on 12-14 May.
Cannabizz Warsaw
Cannabizz Warsaw is Poland’s oldest and biggest cannabis-related event, a 3-day international fair designed to draw attention to the latest innovations and business opportunities in Europe’s rapidly growing legal cannabis market. Now in its 5th year, this event includes access to an expo hall showcasing the latest in seeds, cultivation, paraphernalia, cosmetics, and more, from over 150 vendors from around the world, showcasing the latest in seeds, growing supplies, paraphernalia, cosmetics, and more, as well as networking opportunities, and a conference of free lectures that are open to the public. Each day, these expert-led lectures will cover a different aspect of the cannabis sphere (industrial, medical, and social).
This event is a must-visit for cannabis enthusiasts, medical professionals, and entrepreneurs looking to broaden their connections and embrace new possibilities in the growing Eastern European market. Cannabizz Warsaw 2023 will take place 1-3 December, at Centrum Targowo-Kongresowe Global EXPO.
Canapa Mundi
Now in its 8th year, Canapa Mundi, Italy’s exciting international hemp fair, is the place for anyone interested in the versatility of hemp to explore and learn more. In the expo hall, hundreds of exhibitors, from big-name brands to smaller artisans, will showcase the most innovative and interesting new hemp products – including everything from food, textiles, and cosmetics to offerings from seed banks and the latest in cannabis cultivation technology. Beyond the exhibition hall, this fair includes a scientific conference, workshops, a relaxation room, DJs, cooking demonstrations, and more. This is a family-friendly event with a children’s area, a breastfeeding room, and a restaurant on-site.
Canapa Mundi 2023 will take place in Rome on 17-19 February, at the impressive and spacious Flera di Roma exhibition center. Admission is inexpensive, offering visitors an excellent value. Plus entry is free for disabled people, caregivers, and children under 10, and guests over 65 receive discounted entry. Additionally, a free digital fair will be accessible online throughout the rest of the year.
Cannabis Drinks Expo
Hosted by the Beverage Trade Network and following previous success, the Cannabis Drinks Expo is an annual midsummer event taking place in both San Francisco and Chicago, bringing together beverage and cannabis specialists from around the globe.
From political and legal analysts to medical researchers and brewers, Cannabis Drinks Expo brings a wide variety of experts together in one place to educate, empower, exchange knowledge, and help grow this burgeoning market. With a trade floor filled with 100+ exhibitors, ample networking opportunities, and a business conference track geared toward providing the knowledge necessary to create and grow your own successful marijuana beverage business, this expo provides a wealth of invaluable information and key networking opportunities for anyone interested in the cannabis beverage market.
Cannabis Food Show
Another event hosted by the Beverage Trade Network, the Cannabis Food Show is half expo and half conference held over two cities – San Francisco around July, and Chicago around August. These two one-day B2B events focus on the booming cannabis edibles market and bring the food and cannabis industries together for the first time in an innovative and game-changing expo experience.
The expo features up to 100 exhibitors and is geared toward brand owners, leading industry players, distributors, dispensaries, medical professionals, and food retailers who are turning their focus on this burgeoning and fast-growing market. Buyers and industry professionals come together to educate and inspire by sharing ideas, innovations, and experiences, as well as demonstrating brand success and garnering insights from lobbyists, cannabis chefs, edible brands, and more.
During the conference event, you will be able to participate in discussions around future solutions and cannabis food concepts, showcase your brand, network, and reap the knowledge needed to help your business thrive. Register early for discounts; attendance is by approval only.
Alternative Products Expo
One of America’s most unique and interesting annual trade shows, Alternative Products Expo offers the unique opportunity to explore the best and most innovative new products and services from a wide range of up-and-coming industries, including cannabis, CBD, and vape companies. This three-day event gives visitors the opportunity to network, listen to fascinating speakers, and explore an expansive exhibition hall filled with hundreds of fascinating new products and trends – and take advantage of exclusive discounts, giveaways, and more.
Alternative Products Expo 2023 is scheduled for July 13-15 in Dallas, Texas.
Festivals
A festival revolving around cannabis has a focus on music, advocacy, education, activism, and having fun. You can expect a jam-packed program of events and entertainment with a focus on consuming cannabis surrounded by positive vibes, and novice, as well as seasoned cannabis enthusiasts.
The Amsterdam Coffeeshop Awards
The Amsterdam Coffeeshop Awards offers a full weekend of festivities for cannabis professionals and enthusiasts alike. This event includes workshops, meet-ups, exclusive networking sessions, 420-friendly parties, contests, DJ events, food trucks, and, of course, the prestigious awards ceremony. A diverse panel of experts, professionals, and influencers hailing from various cannabis industry sectors cast their votes for the best local coffeeshop menus, lounges, budtenders, products, and overall experiences, as well as the best strains, edibles, pre-rolls, hash, extracts, and more of 2023 – plus “People’s Choice” picks in each category.
This event will take place across several Amsterdam locations, with the cornerstone ceremony in the NDSM district. The 2023 Amsterdam Coffeeshop Awards take place 24-25 November, with tickets starting at €30.
Mary Jane Berlin
The largest cannabis event of its kind in Germany, Mary Jane Berlin is an exciting and immersive conference, expo, and festival all in one place. Visitors can attend lectures and discussions led by notable industry experts on all sorts of fascinating cannabis-related topics, and explore an expo hall filled with a wide range of the newest and most innovative cannabis and hemp products from rising brands. Additionally, Mary Jane Berlin includes a beachside cannabis festival with live concerts, DJs, food stands, beach and swimming pool access, and an outdoor smoking area.
This immersive event is the perfect place for anyone interested in cannabis to learn, network, or simply kick back and enjoy the music and cannabis festival. Mary Jane Berlin 2023 is scheduled for 23-25 June and will take place at Arena Berlin.
High-Times Cannabis Cup
High-Times Cannabis Cup is the most prominent and well-known cannabis festival in the world. It has a much older pedigree than the other cannabis events described so far. This festival is actually a competition and an awards show – hosted by the famous cannabis aficionado magazine High Times. Cannabis Cup takes place every year in places such as California, Amsterdam, Colorado, Michigan, and even the Midwest of the United States, but recently has expanded to be held in locations around the world such as Jamaica, with the likelihood of more locations featuring this event in the future.
Competitions abound and are based on the best products, booths, cannabis strains, and more. This is an unadulterated festival, exemplifying the classic features expected at a cannabis festival, as people ingest cannabis in every possible way in the pursuit of fun and a high. Cannabis Cup has expanded to now be held in locations around the world, including Jamaica, with the likelihood of more locations featuring this event in the future.
Key Topics at Cannabis Events
Cannabis events tend to focus on disseminating information of educational value, addressing existing challenges, highlighting emerging trends, and revealing new innovations in the industry. The following are a number of topics that are likely to dominate the agenda of cannabis events:
CBD
At CBD-focused events, you will find a space for CBD enthusiasts, business owners, and more to test newly-released products, ask burning questions, and discover how CBD can be used to promote a healthier lifestyle.
Given the fact that the regulatory landscape affecting the industry is constantly evolving, CBD events seek to educate the public and garner trust in the health benefits of this non-psychoactive cannabis plant compound. With the increasing legality of CBD around the world, events with CBD as their focus are continually growing in number.
The CBD Show
The CBD Show is a can’t-miss event for anyone involved with the CBD industry, including B2B and B2C businesses, industry investors, medical professionals, and even CBD consumers.
The CBD Show offers two full days of networking – not only with industry professionals but policy experts, government officials, and trade organisations. The expo hall will host around 100 of the latest and most innovative CBD brands from every sector. And both days will be packed with educational seminars, keynotes, and masterclass workshops led by 50+ high-profile speakers and cannabinoid experts from all over the world. This event offers something valuable for everyone with an interest in the ever-expanding application of this versatile cannabinoid. The CBD Show will take place in London, UK, in December 2023, at the beautiful Olympia London.
Hemp
There are lots of events focused exclusively on hemp and everything related to this non-psychoactive version of the cannabis plant. These events promote the industrial and culinary uses of hemp. They also provide information on legislative developments with regard to the legality of hemp in various jurisdictions. Forecasts on the industry at large, along with more regional outlooks, are discussed and shared with attendees.
NoCo Hemp Expo
The NoCo Hemp Expo is a yearly three-day conference and trade show focused on influencing the future of the sales and marketing of hemp products. Produced by the renowned Colorado Hemp Company, the creators of numerous global B2B hemp-related events – this well-established gathering is held around March in the ideal agricultural location of the National Western Complex; Denver, Colorado. A definitive experience for hemp growers, wholesale/retail buyers, farmers, sellers, and manufacturers.
Each of the event’s three days of forums, conferences, and symposiums is focused around a different group of hemp-related topics. From future investment opportunities and business landscape to soil health and genetics – expect discussions, panels, and presentations that will help cultivate and innovate this industry.
Up to 20,000 attendees are entertained, inspired, and educated by 400 exhibitors in a 200,000 square feet trade floor, experiencing comprised of zones dedicated to different areas of the industry, the ‘let’s talk hemp’ speakers series, networking opportunities, and more.
The Southern Hemp Expo
The Southern Hemp Expo is a sister event of the NoCo Hemp Expo, produced by the same innovative creators (the Colorado Hemp Company). This two-day event is held (annually) around August in Nashville, Tennessee, and is the South’s answer to educating and innovating its ever-growing hemp industry.
With its first day dedicated to industry professionals and its second to business consumers, this B2B event hosts experiences, volunteer opportunities, educational and entertaining interactive exhibits, and professional workshops. The renowned ‘Let’s Talk Hemp’ crew will also be there, calling out for new speakers to join the trade floor for insightful speeches, discussions, and networking opportunities.
This expo experience has over 200 exhibitors and vendors, as well as more than 75 expert speakers at its industry conference and farm symposium. Educating enterprises, this is a yearly gathering of the leading professionals, advocates, businesses, farmers, and manufacturers from the hemp and related industries, championing the enormous growth of this booming and budding industry in the south.
B2B & Entrepreneurship
Some cannabis events focus on the business side of the cannabis industry. These B2B-focused events gather like-minded professionals, uniting leading pioneers and entrepreneurs with investors and experts in order to discuss the latest industry developments.
B2B events also target would-be entrepreneurs, providing them with the knowledge and resources to get ahead fast and avoid common pitfalls. This is why a conference-style event is usually adopted. There is discussion about current economic opportunities, as well as challenges, in the cannabis market at large. There are also opportunities to network with lots of different players in the cannabis industry, including highly sought-after angel investors.
The area of focus is mostly on how to secure funding in what may seem like a saturated market, understanding new developments within the industry, defining distribution channels, overcoming market barriers to entry, scaling up production for export, and dealing with supply chain issues.
MJ Unpacked
MJ Unpacked is the only national US event showcasing hundreds of cannabis CPG brands from around the country to connect and collaborate with retailers, manufacturers, and investors. Discover product trends, gain market intel, and learn solutions to your biggest pain points from other operators. Each conference session addresses cannabis retail and brand challenges. The Brand Experience Hall displays innovation and provides you an opportunity to meet one-on-one with THC brand representatives with the scan of a QR code. You will meet thought leaders, get expert insights, and discover new partnerships.
Attendance is exclusive to cannabis retail and brand executives with the title manager and above, and accredited investors actively investing in the space. MJ Unpacked 2023 will take place April 26-28, at the NY Hilton Midtown, NYC.
Imperious Business Expo
Imperious is a Texas-based organization dedicated to furthering the industrial hemp and medical cannabis industries. It was founded in 2015 by Eric Norton, a passionate activist who used to manage a rehabilitation program for convicted felons.
Its annual two-day event, the Imperious Expo, takes place each fall (around September) in various locations like Seattle, Phoenix, Arkansas, Louisiana, and of course, Texas.
The event’s principle is “business before pleasure,” and the expo is fully focused on the legal uses of marijuana to treat medical conditions and the future of industrial hemp. Recreational use is not considered at this primarily business-driven expo. Topics discussed include sustainability, legal issues, insurance, commercial growing, and related business concerns.
The Imperious Expo features around 120 exhibitors and over 70 top experts who are recruited as speakers. With over 3,000 attendees, this event is excellent for networking opportunities abound at all levels, but also for keeping up-to-date with the most recent developments in the B2B cannabis industry.
O’Cannabiz
O’Cannabiz is one of the leading B2B cannabis events in Canada. This three-day global gathering is held annually around May in Toronto, with a one-day B2B industry conference/evening gala and two days of exhibitors (final day open to the public), demonstrations, and conversations on an engaging trade floor.
O’Cannabiz hosts the annual Industry Awards Gala, honoring cannabis companies and industry professionals for ‘excellence and innovation’. As an industry-only event, you have a chance to be at the cutting edge of the developing culture of cannabis industries in Canada – register to vote, nominate, attend, and engage with the cannabis industry elites.
This conference and expo provides the perfect arena to showcase products, demonstrate success, and meet cannabis entrepreneurs, business and brand owners, investors, strategists, lobbyists, policymakers, and more – with over 100 exhibitors and sponsors on the trade floor, experience engaging keynote speakers, discussions with celebrity advocates and special guests, a VIP reception and after-party, and exclusive networking opportunities.
Medical Cannabis and Research
These events are usually focused on the opportunities within the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes and its capacity to treat diseases, illnesses, and ailments. At a cannabis event focused on the medicinal use of cannabis, you will find industry professionals from all over the industry in attendance, such as licensed producers, growers, suppliers, dispensary owners and managers, and healthcare professionals.
Events that have medical cannabis and related research as focal points are usually organized as cannabis conferences. They include the dissemination of new insights and conclusions from researchers. In addition, speakers with personal experience of having used (or known someone using) cannabis for medicinal reasons may be present.
The usual program of events encompasses discussion of THC and CBD extraction, cannabinoids, the regulatory environment, products being developed at present and future opportunities, the territories in which medical cannabis is accepted or in the process of being accepted, and educating attendees on the benefits of cannabis for medical purposes.
CannMed 23
Since 2016, CannMed has been an essential summit for innovators and investors in the medical cannabis field. Showcasing the greatest minds in cannabis science, medicine, cultivation, and safety, CannMed is an exceptional opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the complex science and beneficial application of medical cannabis. Dr. Raphael Mechoulam and other cannabis industry leaders have chosen CannMed as their platform to announce their latest findings and breakthrough technologies to the world. With the cannabis industry projected to exceed $500B by 2028, CannMed is the one cannabis science conference you cannot afford to miss.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to dive deeper into their niche of interest through fascinating hands-on workshops, including cultivation, laboratory compliance, and a medical practicum. CannMed 23 will take place May 15 – 17 at the luxurious JW Marriott Beach Resort on Marco Island, Florida, with a welcome reception on May 14.
Cannabis Cultivation
Cannabis events revolving around the plants themselves are aimed at those wishing to operate on a commercial scale, providing them with critical information on this integral part of the production process. Cannabis events revolving around cultivation will normally be in the form of a trade show, with vendors exhibiting their nutrients, growing equipment, lighting solutions, and more.
Technological advancements in the cultivation of cannabis are extensively discussed. Agricultural equipment specialists will be on-site and themes such as proper ventilation and air sanitation of the cultivation site may be tackled. There is also discussion of the impact either of these things can have on the quantity, quality, and potency of the crop, as well as a plant’s susceptibility to mold.
Attendees can also expect discussions involving cross-breeding, back-crossing, the modification of THC levels, the increase of yield, the alteration of the flavor profile of a strain, and changing the durability of a cannabis plant in various climates. The more scientific aspects of the cultivation process involve panel discussions, where a panel of expert speakers are in attendance, educating attendees on the details and science of cultivation.
Project Management Tools
Project management is at the heart of every successful business. There are constantly new tools being released, which enable business operations to be conducted more smoothly and efficiently.
Cannabis events on this subject are frequently styled as panel discussions with various cannabis business owners and managers discussing how they manage their operations, the challenges they face each day, and the systems they use to manage their companies more efficiently.
Attendees can expect to hear about the impact on how failing to properly manage a grow operation effectively can have a significant effect on crop quality or yield. Case studies are often brought up to highlight the importance of this issue. Cannabis events with a focus on product management, as well as on the product life cycle and the adoption of innovative technologies, are highly beneficial for both new and experienced cannabis cultivation business owners, as well as for investors who wish to have a better understanding of the business operating model, so they can accurately measure business risk or technological sophistication.
Politics and the Law
Cannabis events also focus on politics and the law. Generally, business-style conventions will have this as a subject of focus. Common topics of interest are the state of the law concerning cannabis production, consumption, and sale in various countries and territories. Conferences which make politics and the law topics of focus are normally targeted at cannabis growers and users, but not only.
Environmental Issues
Cannabis events with a focus on environmental issues are great places to exchange ideas on what can be done to reduce the impact that the industry will inevitably have on the environment.
As the question of reducing environmental degradation takes center-stage for governmental policy-makers and citizens worldwide, cannabis conventions have sprung up, arming attendees such as existing and prospective cannabis business owners, with the knowledge that will enable them to build environmentally-sustainable practices into their business model.
Safety During Cultivation
Cannabis events dealing with safety during cultivation focus on how to ensure the safety of the cannabis grower. The importance of wearing protective gear, exposure to airborne contaminants, heat illness prevention, point of operation hazards, sanitation and pest control, pressure vessels, repetitive motion injuries, machine hazards, flammable liquids and gases, electrical hazards, and safeguarding employee health will be subjects with emphasis placed on them.
With cannabis now fully legalized in places, official health regulations are applied to the industry. It is now important for all employers in the cannabis industry, including those who cultivate, manufacture, distribute, sell, and test marijuana products, to take steps to protect their employees from all health and safety hazards associated with their work.
Panel-style discussions will tend to be arranged, with an exposition of the latest technology emerging in the cannabis industry when it comes to keeping growers safe.
Non-Commercial Cannabis Consumption
Some people simply want to indulge in cannabis. With the number of cannabis enthusiasts growing each day, a large number of cannabis events have appeared with the intention of allowing attendees to enjoy cannabis, usually within the boundaries of the law, although sometimes held as ‘protestivals’ to make a stand in the form of civil disobedience. This usually takes the form of a festival and may be organized as an indoor or an outdoor event.
At these events, the main focus is smoking, vaping, or partaking in cannabis in some other way. These are fun events that sometimes attract over 100,000 people, such as the famous Hempfest in Seattle, Washington.
Hempfest
Hempfest is a “protestival” with a major activist component, where attendees enjoy cannabis in all its forms. Besides being an exercise in this kind of free speech, it also shares information on how to reform cannabis laws and policies within all levels of government. What’s more is that Hempfest has been responsible for registering over 10,000 Washingtonians to vote in state and national elections.
There are as many as 400 arts, crafts, food, and political vendors in attendance every year, as well as 100 music acts and 80 guest speakers. Also featured at this event is a “Hemposium” circus tent, featuring panel discussions and presentations, keynote speakers, displays, and workshops. Hempfest is the largest cannabis policy reform event in the world. This festival has gone from hosting approximately 500 attendees in its first year, to nearly 100,000 today. This is the event that is responsible for bringing cannabis legalization to Washington state.
Final Words – Cannabis Events
The flourishing cannabis industry shows no signs of slowing down at this point. As more countries and states continue to pass laws decriminalizing and legalizing cannabis, a greater number of cannabis events of different types can be expected. There are already a plethora of events centered around this beloved plant.
This comprehensive overview of the wide array of cannabis events has hopefully shed some light on some of the most interesting events taking place around the world, while also offering ideas for cannabis events you may wish to organize yourself.
Author: Clyde Jenkins Clyde is a former journalist and a cannabis connoisseur. He is an expert in well researched journalistic writing, which includes industry overviews, technology-related topics, lifestyle and culture topics, product reviews, and in-depth buyer’s guides. From common practices to what is currently hot and trending – when it comes to the practical side of this plant, Clyde is our guy.
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