Going to events is great for research and to continue learning new insights from industry experts. Connecting with other people in the cannabis industry creates a network of resources that will reach far beyond the shows you attend. Attending in-person events allows you to network with other growers, attend educational seminars, and explore resources you haven’t even thought to consider.
Prepare yourself for a show by thinking of your business’ needs and creating a list of things you are interested in learning or questions you would like to find answers to. Make the most of the event and attend as many relevant sessions as possible. Every show will display its agenda online, so you can schedule your day ahead of time.
When attending a cannabis trade show, take advantage of the opportunity to network. Ask potential vendors to arrange meeting with you so you can interview them in person. Attend workshops, happy hours, or after-parties where you might connect with other cultivators and players in the cannabis space. Collect brochures and other resources from booths on the trade show floor. Take full advantage of everything the show has to offer.
We often get asked by growers what the best events are. Most people have heard of MJBizCon or Cannabis Conference, both large cannabis events held in Las Vegas, Nevada. While we certainly recommend these shows based on their variety of exhibiting vendors and informative speaking sessions and panels, you should also seek out regional events located near you. They are usually less expensive to attend, and you will gain entrance to a pool of players in your local cannabis industry. If you aren’t sure which shows planned for the remainder of 2022, we’ve provided a list of the ones you won’t want to miss.
1. CannaOne, Biloxi (July 7 – 9, 2022)
CannaOne takes pride in providing a leading forum for dispensary owners, growers, suppliers, investors, medical professionals, universities/researchers, consultants, government regulators, legal counsel, entrepreneurs and other ancillary based services looking to achieve business success and identify new areas of growth in this dynamic, ever-changing and fast-growing industry of cannabis and hemp.
This is an opportunity to network, attend sessions covering topics such as Cultivation Design, Planning and Construction, State Regulations 101, How to Fund & Protect Your Cannabis Business, and so much more!
Location: Gulf Coast Coliseum and Convention Center: 2350 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39531
Dates: July 7-9, 2022
Cost:
- 2-day expo and session access $150
- 1-day Expo and Sessions Pass (Friday or Saturday) $100
- Pre-con workshop add-on: Cultivation 101 Thursday 7/7/2022 $145
This information packed 3hour workshop will cover topics on indoor and outdoor horticultural for cannabis. Receive an overview to help you learn the processes from seed to harvest. The workshop will focus on cultivation law as it pertains to growing and ensuring that you operate safely and responsibly. Taught by a panel of industry leaders and professional growers, learn ways to maximize your yield with plant nutrients and understand the signs of plant disease. Consult with our horticulture experts to get your questions answered by professional cultivators and attorneys! - Pre-con workshop add-on: Dispensary 101 7/7/2022 $145
This workshop provides a guide for anyone thinking about getting into the dispensary or delivery service business. During the session, you will cover topics such as policies and procedures, finding a Location/Signing a Lease/Sample Lease, potential revenue, and inventory management!
Visit Surna: Booth #104
How to Register: https://cannaone.ticketspice.com/mississippi-cannabis-expo-healthcare-meets-cannabis-expo
2. CannaCon, Detroit (July 22 – 23, 2022)
CannaCon Midwest Detroit looks forward to helping grow the Midwest’s cannabis industry for years to come. If you attend CannaCon Detroit, you can expect to network with like-minded entrepreneurs who are building a bold, new industry. Attend CannaCon for all your cannabis business needs. CannaCon is a one-stop shop, from cultivation supplies, the newest industry innovations, world class genetics, business and legal advice, retail displays, extraction technology, scientific and financial trends, marketing, branding and so much more. Check out CannaCon to ensure your business is part of an elite group of Industry professionals. This show will offer sessions covering budgeting, technology, and guidance on getting the most out of your grow. Whether you are an industry pro or newcomer, join the industry growers paving the way.
Location: Huntington Place Convention Center: 1 Washington Blvd, Detroit, MI 48226
Dates: July 22-23, 2022
Cost:
- 1-Day Pass Expo Only $50
- 1-Day Pass Expo and Seminar $110
- 2-Day Pass Expo Only $80
- 2-Day Pass Expo and Seminar $160
Visit Surna: Booth #837
How to Register: https://cannacon.org/midwest/midwest-detroit-registration/
3. Cannabis Conference, Las Vegas (August 23 – 25, 2022)
In 2022, 230+ exhibitors will span 85,000 square feet, offering products and solutions exclusively for cultivators, retail dispensaries and extraction professionals. From software to plant inputs, equipment, consulting, and legal services and more—you’ll find a plethora of companies with the ability to take your business to the next level.
Cannabis Conference continues to build upon the successes of previous events and returns with education for cultivators, retailers and processors. It will once again expand its educational offerings with a track dedicated to the cultivation and sale of hemp and hemp-derived products. The Cannabis Conference exhibition hall will feature industry-leading technologies, solutions and services for the professional cannabis cultivator and retail businesses. Join the brightest minds in the industry and view the latest technologies, services, and solutions on our world class trade show floor.
Stop into sessions covering everything from getting a cultivation license and avoiding mistakes in your grow, to environmental efficiencies and cannabis genetics. Whether you are looking to enter the legal cannabis industry, or a veteran ready to take your business to the next level, this is one conference you cannot afford to miss!
Location: Paris Las Vegas Resort: 3655 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Dates: August 23-25, 2022
Cost:
- All Access Pass $699
- Conference and Expo Pass $599
- Expo Only Pass $249
- Virtual Only Pass $699
Visit Surna: Booth #908
How to Register: https://gie.expoplanner.com/?do=reg.flow&event_id=33
4. CannaCon, Chicago (August 27 -28, 2022)
Medical and recreational marijuana was recently legalized in Illinois, which means there’s no better time than now to attend CannaCon Chicago. CannaCon provides the perfect opportunity to meet with like-minded entrepreneurs, farmers, distributors, equipment specialists and more — gather all the information you need to start your own cannabis business. Attend CannaCon Midwest in Chicago and be among the first to experience the cannabis industry in the “Windy City.”
Location: Donald E Stephens Convention Center: 5555 N River Rd, Rosemont, IL 60018
Dates: August 26-27, 2022
Cost:
- 1-Day Pass Expo Only $50
- 1-Day Pass Expo and Seminar $110
- 2-Day Pass Expo Only $80
- 2-Day Pass Expo and Seminar $160
Visit Surna: Booth #714
How to Register: https://cannacon.org/midwest/cannacon-chicago-tickets/
5. MJBizCon, Las Vegas (November 16 – 18, 2022)
One business mistake can cost you millions. The right connections can make you millions. That’s where MJBizCon comes in. MJBizCon is where over 35,000 cannabis executives from around the world unite to get industry deals done, hear the latest industry trends and insights into the current political landscape, source the right solution providers, and gain knowledge from leaders in the industry who have made mistakes and wins.
From professional grow and processing equipment to financial services, you’ll meet more than 1,400 industry suppliers on our Expo floor. Come ready to find new suppliers, check out new tech, compare supplier offerings and ask all your questions. Get on-floor education at two Exhibitor Spotlight Theaters.
When you’re not walking the massive expo hall and networking with peers, take in the valuable opening general sessions and 3-day conference. You’ll get the latest on the political landscape, actionable takeaways, and be able to ask industry leaders your questions about your business, so you walk away with what you need to be successful. Plus, get in-depth on hemp, finance, marketing, science, psychedelics at our 6 pre-show forums on Tuesday, November 15 (the day before the Expo Hall).
Location: Las Vegas Convention Center South Hall: 3150 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Dates: November 15-18, 2022
Cost:
- VIP All-Access Pass $1,099.00
- 3-Day Conference and Expo Pass $599.00
- Expo Pass Only $349.00
- CannaVest Investor Forum $799.00
Visit Surna: Booth #927
How to Register: https://registration.experientevent.com/showmjc221/
Final Thoughts
Attending trade shows will allow you to network with like-minded individuals in the cannabis industry. Set yourself up for success by making the most of your resources and building relationships with companies that will keep your cultivation goals at the forefront of any partnership you create. We can’t wait to see you there!