You’re running a brand, trying to make your mark in this green-tinted jungle, and everyone’s telling you to “network” and “get out there.” But where exactly is “there”? And more importantly, which of these industry events are actually worth your time and money?
Relax, we’ve got you covered. We’ve sifted through the noise to bring you the cream of the crop – the top 10 cannabis industry trade shows that you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
10. CWCBExpo (Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition)
This event is a high-stakes playground for cannabis entrepreneurs and investors looking to make their mark. From cutting-edge cultivation techniques to revolutionary retail solutions, CWCBExpo showcases the best and brightest of the cannabis world, all against the backdrop of the city that never sleeps.
Pros:
- Located in major U.S. markets
- Good platform for networking with East and West Coast professionals
- Offers educational seminars on emerging trends
Cons:
- Mid-sized event, lacking the reach of larger expos
- Can be costly for premium placements
Bottom Line:
Solid choice for brands looking to make waves in major U.S. markets.
9. ICBC (International Cannabis Business Conference)
The ICBC is where cannabis professionals from over 80 countries converge to shape the future of the global industry. A whirlwind tour of the world’s cannabis markets compressed into a few action-packed days with a focus on international policy and business. It’s the place to be for those looking to expand their horizons beyond domestic markets.
Pros:
- Multiple global locations
- Attracts a diverse, international audience
- Strong focus on international cannabis policy and business
Cons:
- Smaller attendance compared to North American events
- May be less relevant for brands focused solely on domestic markets
Bottom Line:
If you’re looking to go global, ICBC is your passport to international cannabis connections.
8. Cannabis Europa
This isn’t your grandmother’s tea party – unless your grandmother was secretly cultivating cannabis in the palace gardens. This event focuses on the European cannabis market, offering unique insights into the continent’s evolving regulations and market opportunities.
Pros:
- Focus on the growing European market
- Attracts high-level policymakers and investors
- Provides insights into European regulations
Cons:
- Smaller scale compared to North American events
- Higher travel costs for non-European brands
Bottom Line:
If you’re eyeing European expansion, this is your gateway to the Old World’s new green frontier.
7. CannaCon
Known for being accessible to small businesses and new entrepreneurs, CannaCon is like the food truck of cannabis events – it comes to you. With its multi-city approach, it offers a unique opportunity to tap into regional markets and connect with local industry players.
Pros:
- Multiple locations across the U.S.
- More affordable for smaller brands and startups
- Good variety of exhibitors
Cons:
- Smaller scale compared to major events
- Quality of networking can vary by city
Bottom Line:
Great for regional networking and market penetration, especially for smaller brands.
6. Emerald Cup
It’s like if your hippie uncle decided to start a cannabis business (and actually knew what he was doing). Part festival, part trade show with a strong focus on craft cannabis and sustainability. The Emerald Cup offers a platform for businesses to showcase their products, connect with 15,000-20,000 attendees, and maybe even win some awards.
Pros:
- Combines business with pleasure
- Great for connecting with California’s market
- Strong focus on craft cannabis and sustainability
Cons:
- Less formal than other shows
- Primarily California-focused
Bottom Line:
If you’re targeting the California market or love mixing business with a good time, this could be your scene.
5. Lift & Co. Expo
Welcome to Lift & Co. Expo, Canada’s premier cannabis event where business meets pleasure with a distinctly Canadian flair. By day, engage with industry leaders and explore cutting-edge cannabis innovations. By night, network over craft beers and poutine. This vibrant celebration blends education, innovation, and fun, bringing the cannabis community together to learn, grow, and share a few laughs.
Pros:
- One of the largest expos in Canada, offering significant exposure
- Combination of business and consumer days
- Strong educational program and workshops
Cons:
- Primarily focused on the Canadian market
- Can get crowded, reducing networking effectiveness
Bottom Line:
If you’re eyeing the Canadian market, this is your ticket to the Great White North’s green scene.
4. Hall of Flowers
Welcome to Hall of Flowers, the Vogue of the cannabis world. A carefully orchestrated symphony of style, innovation, and green entrepreneurship nestled in the picturesque settings of Palm Springs and Santa Rosa. This event is where the cannabis industry’s coolest kids come to see and be seen.
Pros:
- Highly curated, B2B-focused event
- Great for product discovery and connecting with retailers
- Strong presence of influential buyers and decision-makers
Cons:
- Limited to licensed operators
- Costly for smaller brands or startups
Bottom Line:
If you’re looking to make real connections and showcase your products, this might be your scene.
3. CannaOne
CannaOne is all about connecting cannabis professionals and businesses. Think cutting-edge workshops, live product demos, B2B networking, and an exhibit hall buzzing with the latest tech and trends. Whether you’re scaling your operations or just soaking in industry insights, this show delivers serious value.
Pros:
- B2B focus, perfect for professionals looking to build partnerships
- A broad array of educational opportunities and tech showcases
- Located in the vibrant hub of Vegas
Cons:
- Not a fit for the casual enthusiast or consumer market
- Heavy on tech and business and lacks the cultivation depth
Bottom Line:
CannaOne is the place for serious cannabis professionals to meet, mingle, and move the industry forward.
2. NCIA’s Cannabis Business Summit & Expo
Hosted by the National Cannabis Industry Association, this summit is where policy wonks and stoners collide. From high-level discussions on federal legalization to debates on the perfect cure time, this event covers it all. It’s the place to be if you want to stay ahead of the regulatory curve and influence the future of cannabis policy.
Pros:
- Focus on advocacy and policy, attracting industry bigwigs
- High-quality educational sessions
- Good for networking with policy-focused individuals and companies
Cons:
- Smaller attendee base compared to other events
- Higher cost for non-members
Bottom Line:
If you’re looking to rub elbows with the policy crowd, this is your jam.
1. MJBizCon
This is the Super Bowl, Olympics, and World Cup of weed all rolled into one massive Vegas-sized joint. Known to be the biggest B2B cannabis conference and tradeshow in the industry. From groundbreaking tech to policy debates, MJBizCon offers an unparalleled glimpse into the future of the industry. Just remember: what happens in Vegas might just shape the future of cannabis worldwide.
Pros:
- Massive exposure (if you can stand out in the crowd)
- Networking on steroids
- Launch pad for new products (if you’ve got the guts and the budget)
Cons:
- Crowded as hell
- Expensive!
- You might need a search party to find your target audience
Bottom Line:
Go big or go home. If you’ve got the cash and a standout product, it could be worth the chaos.
Now that you know which show is best for you, it’s time to make sure you stand out. Don’t show up empty-handed – let us help you create the ultimate trade show experience. Whether it’s giveaway swag, branded tablecloths, eye-catching backdrops, or everything in between, we’ve got you covered. We can help you create a booth that draws a crowd and generates real buzz.
In Conclusion: Choose Your Own Adventure
At the end of the day, these trade shows are tools. And like any tool, their effectiveness depends on how you use them. Don’t just follow the herd because someone told you it’s the “must-attend event of the year.”
Think about what you actually need:
– Are you looking to make a big splash? MJBizCon might be your jam.
– Want quality connections in a more intimate setting? Check out Hall of Flowers.
– Aiming to break into the California market? The Emerald Cup could be your ticket.
Remember, it’s not about being everywhere. It’s about being in the right place, at the right time, with the right strategy. So choose wisely, prepare thoroughly, and for fuck’s sake, bring comfortable shoes.
