The Guide to the Best MJBizCon Yet

When you attend MJBizCon, you’re experiencing more than the best B2B cannabis conference: All the best cannabis business resources are at your disposal, and you get to decide how to reap the benefits.

To make sure you’re ready to roll with the elite, we compiled this handy “Best of BizCon” guide.

MJBizCon appMost Useful: MJBizCon App

It’s more than a conference guide: Build your agenda by flagging speakers and sessions you can’t miss this year. Get push notifications you can use, like agenda updates, expo floor hours and more (including the occasional discount!).

Bonus: It’s FREE (And, yes! It’s available in the App Store and Google Play!)

 

Best-Kept Secret: Factbook Update Release

Our reporters just never stop researching, so six months after its release, get ready for the mid-year update to our 2018 Marijuana Business Factbook. We’re releasing this exclusively to 2018 Factbook buyers during MJBizCon. Anyone who’s already purchased it will automatically receive the digital updates on Nov. 14.

Get the edge: Anyone with the Factbook update will be taking “competitive advantage” to a new level. Thankfully, it’s not too late to qualify: order your Factbook today and be the one who’s in the know!

 

business crash courseMost Popular: Marijuana Business Crash Course

The number of people who’ve told us they got their cannabiz start with this course is pretty much impossible to track. Designed for entrepreneurs just entering the market, this preconference is THE best resource for newcomers looking to get started. You’ll also hear directly from industry veterans on how to outlast the competition.

The time is now: Don’t let another opportunity pass you by – reserve your seat today.

 

Women's Networking EventMost Likely to Empower Leadership: Women’s Networking Reception 

Entrepreneurs know that 99% of the time, you’re only as strong as your network. This reception is a platform for women to celebrate each other’s grit and continue closing the gender gap industry wide.

Tickets Required: Click here to join the women at the helm of cannabis today and exchange perspectives on making serious moves up the corporate ladder.

 

Investor ConferenceMost Distinguished: Marijuana Business Daily’s Institutional Investor Conference (IIC)

This private, single-day conference is designed exclusively for accredited and high net worth investors pursuing investment opportunities in cannabis. Conference sessions include actionable intelligence for investors tied to family offices, banks, hedge funds and institutional investment firms.

Prediction: Timing is everything. Despite the caveats, institutional investors have more opportunities in cannabis investments than ever before. The time to register is now.

 

affiliated eventsMost Likely to Make an Impact: Minorities in Cannabis Luncheon

Social responsibility is one of the critical spaces where the cannabis industry has an uncommon opportunity to drive real progress. Network with entrepreneurs at the forefront of building diversity into the foundation of modern cannabis. Unpack real strategies to drive inclusive policies and unbiased opportunities at every level.

Make sure you’re in the room – reserve your ticket now.

 

omniaCoolest Perk: Free After-Parties

With these new events, MJBizCon is embracing Las Vegas as the vibrant destination it truly is. Your MJBizCon badge gets you free drinks at the official Kick-Off Party at Omnia Nightclub on Tuesday, Nov. 13 plus free VIP lane access at some of the trendiest nightclubs around town on Wednesday and Thursday.

Tip: Enter these events and times into your calendar now so you don’t miss a minute of networking time. (And, don’t forget your badge!)

 

Election 2018Wildcard Factor: U.S. Midterm Elections

It’s been a  historic year for U.S. cannabis: streamlining California’s rec market, regulating cannabis-based pharmaceuticals and subsequently re-scheduling CBD — just to name a few.

Four U.S. states have marijuana on the ballot on Nov. 6, and there’s no doubt midterm elections will determine certain conversations and decisions at MJBizCon.

Prediction: Cannabis legalization is increasingly one of the least partisan issues in U.S. politics. Left to the whim of the voters, all we can do is wait and see. Be prepared with our 2018 Election Coverage.

This post was originally published for MJBizTalks

INT’L Canadian Business Highlight: Sessions, Influencers and Resources to Know

As the first G-7 nation to legalize recreational cannabis nationwide, Canada is setting a precedent for international policy and trade opportunities. MJBizConINT’L, Marijuana Business Daily’s inaugural international conference, is bringing together multinational thought leaders in Toronto and is poised to drive conversations around cannabis as a global commodity.

Occurring just weeks after Canada officially legalized— and only two months before recreational sales begin — MJBizConINT’L features dedicated opportunities to get in-depth insight into Canada’s market.


  • How will local and federal regulations impact entrepreneurial endeavors?
  • What can business owners do to prepare themselves for consolidation?
  • What opportunities are unique to Canada’s legal recreational market?

Flag these Canadian Market sessions to explore these questions and more essential answers about Canadian cannabis opportunities:

Canadian Market: Canada Industry Overview

This session will explore the varying regulations and policies across each province. While federal regulation allows recreational cannabis, each Canadian province has introduced unique policies that impact retail and consumption.

Hear from a panel of experts on budding recreational and medical trends, license regulations, and how Health Canada is approaching the distribution of cannabis. See the full session description >>

Sarah Zborovski

Networking tip: Are you especially interested in how to comply with Health Canada’s regulations? Find Toronto-based panel member Sara Zborovski, who provides counsel for companies regulated by Health Canada.

 

Canadian Market: Capitalizing on Cannabis Tourism

Consumer-friendly destination weddings and bed & breakfasts serving sativa with your morning coffee — these are just a few of the several anticipated business opportunities in the Canadian tourism market. It’s clear that business owners will need to get creative to maximize on these new opportunities.

With so many moving pieces to Canada’s marijuana market, our speakers will cover what’s allowed and what’s not in each province along with tips on growing a cannabis tourism business from the ground up. Learn about not-yet-released policies that will impact your business so you can plan for every possible outcome. See the full session description >>

Matt Cronin

Networking Tip: Founder & CEO of Canada High Tours Matt Cronin brings 20 years of travel industry expertise to this educational session. Learn more about Cronin and his plans for marijuana-friendly experiences in Toronto before you shake his hand at INT’L.

 

Canadian Market: What’s Next? The Future of Canada’s Cannabis Industry

Don’t just plan for October’s rollout of recreational business opportunities: Get ready for the infused product market coming in 2019. Anticipate oversaturation as more and more entrepreneurs flood the market. Prepare for consolidation as the market matures over time.

Subject matter experts will cover international business considerations, maintaining an edge over competitors, and preparing to compete overseas. See the full session description >>

Michael Gorenstein

Networking tip: Is international expansion your company’s primary focus for the future? Cronos Group CEO Michael Gorenstein has led his company’s global expansion and oversees their presence in four continents. What questions will you ask about becoming an international leader in this industry?

 


 

Ready to take it to the next level?

Check out these additional resources to reinforce your Canadian market expertise:

Canada Marijuana Business Crash Course

This intensive day-long pre-conference session is tailored for entrepreneurs and investors who want to enter the Canadian market — armed with the best available data. Seats for this event on August 14 are limited: Secure your spot and get ready for executive-level business intelligence that will inform your decisions across multiple sectors in this industry.
Learn more >>

Cannabis in Canada: Recreational Markets by Province

This FREE report contains province-by-province breakdowns that are imperative for anyone pursuing Canadian cannabusiness. Released in July 2018, this is your guide to key market data and analysis so you can create strong business plans and ensure success in the new recreational market.
Learn more >>

MJBizDaily Canada

Are you following the latest news in Canada’s cannabis market? Get the headlines sent to your inbox — for FREE! — so you can stay in step as the market evolves.
Learn more >>

This blog post was originally published for MJBizTalks

How Science and Research Affects Medical and Recreational Cannabis

Does cannabis represent a turning point for the pharmaceutical industry?

Will THC and CBD products redefine how we approach and treat disease?

When will the scientific community find meaningful benefits that debunk the international classification of cannabis as a Schedule 1 narcotic?

The answers to these questions will significantly impact the cannabis industry. Anyone with business interests in marijuana, hemp and/or CBD need to understand the role of science and research in the future of cannabis as a global commodity.

MJBizDaily designs conferences to deliver thorough, straightforward education across all sectors of cannabusiness — ancillary or plant-touching, investing or cultivating, research or retail.

Our science and research track at MJBizConINT’L provides a valuable overview of the latest academic developments paired with actionable solutions for cannabis professionals. Learn how to foster commercial relationships with medical associations, hear the latest in cannabis clinical trials, and find out how universities and governments around the world are playing a major role in the advancement of cannabis research.

Medicinal Research Benefits Recreational Use

Separate approaches to medicinal and recreational markets have benefitted cannabis progress in several ways. MJBizConNEXT Keynote Speaker Kevin O’Leary emphasized the value of approaching cannabis legalization by first lifting federal restrictions on medical use as a precedent for introducing recreational consumption.

“If there was a federally legal, medicinal solution, [lawmakers] would see the taxes and the jobs – and it would make it a lot easier to pursue recreational mandates,” O’Leary said in an interview with MJBizDaily.

Understanding the Science Driving Global Cannabis Research

The Science & Research conference sessions at MJBizConINT’L are thoughtfully designed with a holistic perspective on these questions. The editors of MJBizDaily have selected expert speakers and compiled panels of accomplished professionals to deliver comprehensive analyses of the cannabis industry as it relates to business ventures worldwide.

You’ll see how different nations approach the industry with research, whether by justifying medical applications in the MMJ community or disproving safety concerns curtailing the adoption of recreational use, plus new and surprising developments.

Our Science & Research conference tracks are designed to inform your business decisions

  • How to Use Science & Research to Boost Your Cannabis Business
    Specialists from Colombia and the United States translate technical analysis into practical applications so you can harness science to expand your impact on cannabis. Learn how to turn R&D into licensed intellectual property, develop strong commercial relationships with medical associations and potential distribution partners, and harness additional methods to use science and research for advancement. Learn More >>
  • Latest Academic Research
    In this “one-stop shop” session, cannabis researchers from Israel, Australia and the United States explore academic efforts and advances around the world. You’ll get insights into fascinating aspects of cannabis clinical trials, barriers to cannabis research, and a glimpse at the wide-ranging impacts of academic efforts on the global cannabis market. Plus, you’ll hear updates on the quest to understand the role of terpenes in the entourage effect. Learn More >>
  • The Future of Science & Research
    Experts from Canada, Israel and Peru will share what excites them most about the future of marijuana. Cannabis science is still a young field, leaving scores of questions about marijuana’s effects and applications for modern researchers to explore. Learn which diseases researchers hope to combat with THC and CBD, see new applications for cannabis (like cosmetics and veterinary medicines), and discern the seemingly infinite possibilities for commercial research. Learn More >>

If you’re ready to actively incorporate research into your business strategy, you’ll want to hear from Stephen Konigsberg, managing director and general counsel of Tikun Olam. His session, Business Insights: Creating a “Dual Track” Cannabis Business: Pharmaceutical & Medical/Adult-Use, explores how businesses can operate in both medical and adult-use cannabis.

Despite divisions between the two markets, marijuana is evolving into a commodity attracting major revenue — regardless of how it’s categorized for consumers.

View the full INT’L conference agenda to learn more about our seven distinct speaker tracks, each uniquely designed to inform international business considerations in the cannabis industry.

This blog post was originally published for MJBizTalks

Toronto: Where Diversity, Diplomacy and Cannabis Collide

As MJBiz laid out the criteria for our first international conference — seeking a friendly, global destination open to research, policy, expansion and diplomatic considerations in the cannabis market — Toronto was a natural first choice.

In addition to being a financial capital and champion of diversity and inclusion, Toronto has an established acceptance of the cannabis industry – long before the passage of Bill C-45, legalizing the recreational market nationwide. For one, it’s attracted as many as 20,000 people at its annual Global Marijuana March, considered the world’s largest annual demonstration in support of legalization.

While you’re in town for MJBizConINT’L from August 14-16, you and your cannabiz colleagues can accomplish some serious networking against a background of a lively arts presence, a rich and diverse food scene, and innovative claims to cultural fame.

The future of global cannabis launches in this expansive Canadian metropolis:


Graffiti Alley Toronto

Graffiti Alley is one of several spaces throughout Toronto where street artists display their work. Image: FLICKR/Nigel Burgher

Graffiti Alley

A short walk from the Metro Convention Centre, Graffiti Alley attracts prominent graffiti artists from around the world. The results? A square kilometer of vibrant colors, intricate designs and thought-provoking images can instantly refresh you after a full day of conference sessions. Look out all around town for public art spaces that just might give you a brand new take on street art.

 


little italy

International districts aren’t unique to metropolitan areas, but Toronto is home to several neighborhoods showcasing unique traditions and cuisines. Image:Flickr/Alain Rouiller

International Districts

To experience unique customs and delicious cuisines from different regions of the world, you don’t even have to leave Toronto’s city limits. Spread across the city in pockets of every major neighborhood, you’ll have no trouble experiencing a uniquely new flavor — or a taste of something comfortingly familiar.

Learn more about some of the most recognizable cultural neighborhoods in Toronto: Little Italy, Little India, Chinatown, Little Jamaica, Greektown, Little Portugal, Koreatown, Little Poland, Little Malta.


Catch a variety of small plates plus an extensive list of sakes and Japanese whiskeys to kick off an evening of networking at one of Toronto’s many Izakayas. Image: Flickr/Lloyd Morgan

Izakayas

If you enjoy the idea of a selection of traditional Japanese small plates delivered over several delicious hours, then you’ll appreciate that Izakayas are popping up all over Toronto. With their extensive selections of Japanese whiskeys, sakes and traditional small plates presented in a low-key and relaxing atmosphere, Izakayas are impressive venues for informal business meetings or extending your conference networking well into the evening.

 


Tour the home of one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals at TIFF Bell Lightbox in the Entertainment District. Image: See Toronto Now

TIFF Bell Lightbox

The annual Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September attracts nearly half a million attendees every year and is considered the largest and one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. But, did you know they host year-round screenings of both popular and indie flicks? A perfect weekend activity, you can also catch discussions with leading critics, directors, writers and others at the TIFF Bell Lightbox in the heart of Toronto’s media and entertainment district.

 


It’s undeniable that some of the greatest hockey players in the world hail from the Great White North. Image: FLICKR/Brian Crawford

Hockey Hall of Fame

Hockey, eh? It wouldn’t be right to exclude hockey from our highlights, especially since 2018 marks the 75th anniversary of the Hockey Hall of Fame. And while the museum closes at 5 p.m. on weekdays, you can still make a pilgrimage if you plan on extending your Toronto visit through the weekend!

 


Toronto is a bustling Canadian metropolis at the forefront of innovation and cultural progress — and we couldn’t be more excited to host our premier international conference in such a lively, cannabis-friendly destination. If you haven’t booked your MJBizConINT’L accommodations yet, we have some great discounted options for hotels in prime locations around the city, and some great deals for transportation when you arrive.

We look forward to seeing you in Toronto!

 

This blog post was originally published for MJBizTalks

How MJBizCon Prepares You to Reach Professional Excellence

We know you’re selective about how you spend your time and money.

As a professional in a constantly evolving industry, you’re always looking for the balance between running your business, building your network and continuing your education.

This guide was developed to help you identify how MJBizCon events advance your goals and determine which conferences you absolutely can’t miss.


MJBizConINT'L cannabis business conference in Toronto

Visit MJBizConINT’L If…

You’re in the “empire” business. Entrepreneurs with an eye for international trade, policy and multinational businesses can’t afford to miss MJBizConINT’L. Curious about growing in Israel, setting up shop in the U.S., and/or breaking into the German market? You want to get the most thorough exposure to new markets and stay ahead of the curve while you expand your reach. You need to convene with peers from around the world who share your interest in the global cannabis marketplace.

INT’L is for decision makers who want to impact the global marketplace. As an industry in its infancy, cannabis is poised to revolutionize the world economy. And if you’re not looking at international trade, then you might be missing out. Whether you have a grow in Washington, a shop or two in Ontario or a packaging plant in Australia, it’s time to define your role in the global marketplace.

Don’t miss the opportunity to position yourself among multinational peers.

MJBizCon marijuana business conference in Las Vegas

Buy Your Pass for MJBizCon If…

You work in cannabis.

MJBizCon is the preeminent event in cannabis today, attracting over 20,000 attendees and over 900 exhibitors — it’s the largest cannabis conference in the world.

MJBizCon is how you show the rest of the industry that you’re here to do business.

Your peers will expect to see you at MJBizCon in Las Vegas if you’re truly serious about cannabis. Don’t make the mistake of skipping the only cannabis conference that counts.

MJBizConNEXT cannabis business conference in New Orleans

Don’t Skip MJBizConNEXT If…

You’re an innovator and here to let everyone know it. Geared towards executives, investors and creators, NEXT is the destination for anyone who calls the shots — and anyone trying to find the decision-makers.

With exclusive pre-conference sessions designed for executives and an expo floor showcasing the most innovative players, NEXT is where you go to learn about emerging trends, business best practices, and game-changing tools and technology.

While 2018 MJBizConNEXT featured new technologies and business innovations, this conference is ultimately designed to bring leaders and aspiring leaders into one room. Thorough speaker sessions paired with an immersive expo floor distinguish NEXT as a prominent conference for advancing your decision making.


From global policy to innovation and beyond!

Whether you’re an MJBizCon veteran or a marijuana newcomer, thank you for joining us in advancing the cannabis industry. Which events will we see you at?

This blog post was originally published for MJBizTalks