Wednesday January 21 – Morning Highlights & Photos

by Kaylz Szanto | Jan 23, 2026 | 2026 Vancouver, Grow Up News, Grow Up Photos

Wednesday, January 21st – Morning Highlights — Grow Up Vancouver 2026

Wednesday, January 21 | AM Programming Recap

The final day of Grow Up Vancouver 2026 opened with a strong lineup of future-focused conversations, technical masterclasses, and interactive sessions that addressed global expansion, cultivation innovation, genetics, Indigenous leadership, and retail experience.

Wednesday morning reflected the industry’s next chapter — one rooted in export readiness, data-driven production, genetic integrity, community leadership, and experiential retail.

Export Ready: What You Need to Know

High North Main Stage | 10:00 AM

Day 3 began with a deep dive into international markets and what it truly takes for Canadian cannabis companies to become export ready.

Moderated by Deepak Anand (Principal, ASDA Consultancy Services), the panel featured Dr. Brigitte Simons (President & CEO, Safari Flower Co), Edward Woo (VP International Business Development, Village Farms Canadian Cannabis), and Sunny Gill (Founder & CEO, Apigen).

Panelists explored regulatory frameworks, quality standards, formulation considerations, and logistics across flower, concentrates, and edibles, with particular attention paid to the growing global demand for concentrates. The discussion emphasized preparation, compliance, and strategic positioning as essential components for long-term export success.

Dialing It In: You Can’t Know What You Don’t Know

Ballroom B | 10:15 AM

This cultivation masterclass focused on how modern sensor technology is reshaping cannabis production.

Speakers included Adam Clarke (CEO, West Coast Weedery), Alexandre Gauthier (VP of R&D & Director of Cultivation, Origine Nature), Angie Fulton (Director of Cultivation, Rubicon Organics), David Sandelman (COO & Co-Founder, Cannatrol), and Matt Sawler (Facility Manager, EastCann).

The session explored real-time environmental monitoring, automation, and data integration, highlighting how precision tools help cultivators improve consistency, reduce waste, and proactively address issues before they impact crop quality.

Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For: Phenohunting for Today’s Market

Exhibit Hall A | 10:30 AM

Genetics took center stage with an in-depth discussion on phenohunting strategies and how genetic selection aligns with market demand.

Moderated by Daniel Joly (Courtside Genetics), the panel featured Dustan McLean (Chief Grow Officer Consulting), Jonathan Fernandes (Green Amber), Sylvain Gaudreau (CANASYGA), and William Fournier (Mauve et Herbes).

Speakers shared insights on cultivation considerations, consumer preferences, and how phenohunting decisions impact commercial viability, consistency, and brand differentiation.

Indigenous Cannabis in BC: Current Landscape and Emerging Opportunities

High North Main Stage | 10:45 AM

This important panel highlighted the growing role of Indigenous leadership in British Columbia’s cannabis industry.

Moderated by Michelle Corfield (Founder, BC Cann), the discussion featured Daniel Penny (Unity Cannabis), Stacey Duffy (All Nations), and Vikram Sachdeva (Seed & Stone).

Panelists shared firsthand perspectives on Indigenous-led projects, regulatory navigation, partnerships, and pathways for economic growth, emphasizing collaboration, self-determination, and long-term opportunity within the provincial cannabis landscape.

Shooting the Shit: Grower’s Circle Knowledge Dump

Ballroom B | 11:15 AM

Designed as an open, peer-to-peer knowledge exchange, this masterclass encouraged candid conversation among cultivators.

Participants included Adam Mint (Paradise Valley Botanics), Chad Rigby (Grodan), Dustan McLean (Chief Grow Officer Consulting), Jeff Aubin (Smoker Farms), and Joshua Beckett (Magi Cannabis).

The session covered real-world cultivation challenges and solutions — from lighting and nutrients to pest management and propagation — offering attendees practical takeaways grounded in experience rather than theory.

Upselling Through Experience

High North Main Stage | 11:30 AM

Presented by Tether, this interactive session focused on retail strategy and the budtender’s role in enhancing customer experience.

Moderated by Jodie Giesz-Ramsay (Cannabis Culture), speakers included Amber Craig (Spark Business Strategies), Dr. Lucas McCann (CannDelta Inc.), and Ripley Halfyard (Cosmic Cannabis).

Through guided scenarios, the session demonstrated how thoughtful, experience-driven upselling can increase basket size while ensuring customers leave with products that genuinely meet their needs.

From Seed to Commercialization

Exhibit Hall A | 11:30 AM

Running concurrently, this genetics session examined the full journey from breeding to large-scale commercialization.

Moderated by Kevin Jodrey (One Log Cookies R&D Facility), panelists included Daniel Joly (Courtside Genetics), Mat Beren (Great Gardener Farms), Mike Mountain (Relevant Genetic Consulting), and Tyson Cramer (Peak Profit Yields).

The discussion highlighted breeding practices, early plant development, infrastructure scaling, and the importance of genetic integrity in commercial success.

Photo Gallery

Explore highlights from Wednesday morning below, featuring panels, masterclasses, interactive sessions, and the final day’s opening moments at Grow Up Vancouver 2026. Photos by Dominic Chan.

Tuesday January 20 – Official Networking Party at Shark Club

by Kaylz Szanto | Jan 23, 2026 | 2026 Vancouver, Grow Up News, Grow Up Photos

Grow Up Vancouver 2026 Wraps Day 2 with Official Networking Party at Shark Club

Vancouver, BC — Tuesday, January 20, 2026 — Following a full day of conference programming, Grow Up Vancouver 2026 brought the community together for its Official Networking Party, hosted at Shark Club inside the Sandman Hotel.

Presented by Breadstack Technologies, the event marked the only official after-hours networking gathering of the week, welcoming delegates, speakers, sponsors, and exhibitors for an evening focused on connection, collaboration, and relationship-building.

With zero travel required for conference attendees, the Shark Club provided a relaxed and energetic setting where conversations continued beyond the stage. Complimentary appetizers were served throughout the night, while DJ Yawn kept the atmosphere lively, creating an ideal balance between business and celebration.

The evening featured a dedicated VIP area for Executive Summit delegates and partners, offering space for deeper conversations and high-level networking. From first-time introductions to long-standing industry relationships, the party served as a natural extension of the day’s programming — where insights turned into dialogue and ideas began to take shape.

As one of the most well-attended social events of the conference, the Official Networking Party reinforced what Grow Up does best: creating intentional spaces where Canada’s cannabis industry can connect in meaningful, productive ways.

The Grow Up team extends a sincere thank you to Breadstack Technologies, the Shark Club team, and everyone who joined us to close out Day 2 of Grow Up Vancouver 2026 on a high note.

Tuesday January 20 – Afternoon Highlights & Photos

by Kaylz Szanto | Jan 23, 2026 | 2026 Vancouver, Grow Up News, Grow Up Photos

Day 2 Afternoon Highlights — Grow Up Vancouver 2026

Tuesday, January 20 | PM Programming Recap

The afternoon programming on Day 2 of Grow Up Vancouver 2026 delivered one of the most expansive and thought-provoking blocks of the conference, bringing together science, retail strategy, genetics, legacy voices, and emerging technology across multiple stages and rooms.

From advanced research presentations to deeply personal conversations about culture and justice, Tuesday afternoon reflected the complexity, maturity, and momentum of Canada’s cannabis industry.

Rolling with Science: Perfecting the Joint & Vaporizing the Competition

Ballroom B | 1:00 PM

The afternoon began with a data-driven masterclass led by Dr. Markus Roggen, Founder & CEO of Complex Biotech AG, and Dr. Paul Heine, Principal Consultant at Selenide Consulting Inc.

Drawing on original research into combustion, vaporization, particle size, and humidity, the session examined how joints and vape products actually perform — separating science from marketing claims. With pre-rolls now representing over $1.2 billion in annual sales, the presentation offered rare, evidence-based insight into what defines product quality and consumer experience.

CANNAtalk Part 2: Genetics in Focus — Breeding Innovation for Tomorrow’s Market

Exhibit Hall A | 1:00 PM

Genetics took centre stage during CANNAtalk Part 2, moderated by Shannon Kloet of Tamerlane Trading Co.

Panelists included Daniel Joly (Courtside Genetics), Kevin Jodrey (One Log Cookies R&D Facility), and Matthew Don-Carolis (Segra International).

The discussion explored how genetics underpin product consistency, terpene expression, medical outcomes, and global commercialization. Speakers emphasized that verified, clean, and export-ready genetics will define long-term success as cannabis markets mature worldwide.

The Next Wave of Retail: Building Powerful Brand Connections

High North Main Stage | 1:15 PM

Retail leaders gathered on the High North Main Stage to explore how stronger collaboration between brands and retailers can drive differentiation and growth.

Panelists included Beau Driver (DEALR Cannabis), Brad Nishimura (Vancity® Cannabis), Gemma Hayes (Sweetgrass Cannabis), Matthew Greenwood (Up in Smoke Cannabis Store), and Robert Laurie (AD LUCEM Law Corporation / Vancity® Cannabis).

The conversation focused on exclusive product collaborations, co-marketing initiatives, working directly with small producers, and future innovations such as loyalty ecosystems and consumption spaces.

Seeds, Plantlets, or Clones: The Future of Cannabis Propagation

Ballroom B | 1:30 PM

This masterclass examined how propagation methods influence crop health, scalability, and consistency. Speakers included Atiyyah Ferouz (AgCann Consultancy), David Bernard Perron (Organic Cannabis Consulting), Aakash Goyal (AgriLeaf Inc.), and Rob Baldwin (Village Farms Canadian Cannabis).

The panel compared F1 hybrid seeds, tissue-culture plantlets, and traditional clones, addressing genetic stability, pathogen management, and production efficiency across both craft and commercial operations.

Brands & Buyers Speed Networking — Afternoon Session

Exhibit Hall A | 2:00–4:00 PM

The afternoon Brands & Buyers Speed Networking session continued to connect cannabis brands with approved retail buyers in a fast-paced, structured environment designed to support discovery, feedback, and long-term partnerships.

Growing Smarter: How AI Is Transforming the Cannabis Industry

High North Main Stage | 2:00 PM

This panel explored real-world applications of artificial intelligence already improving cannabis operations. Speakers included Alexandre Gauthier (Origine Nature), Fez Rismani (Elevate Wellness Inc.), Hardeep Shoker (Elevated Signals), and John Slaughter (High North, Inc.).

The discussion focused on practical tools for forecasting, compliance, yield optimization, and operational efficiency — highlighting AI’s immediate value beyond hype.

The Past, Present & Future of Rosin

Ballroom B | 2:30 PM

Solventless extraction took the spotlight with a masterclass featuring Alannah Davis (Dabble Cannabis Co.), Hugo Leon de Gante (Lady Jane Labs), Mat Beren (Great Gardener Farms), and Tim Powers (Kind Selections).

Speakers traced rosin’s evolution from grassroots methods to premium commercial products, discussing innovation, consumer demand, and the future of solventless extraction.

Legacy to Legal: Preserving Culture, Justice & Community

High North Main Stage | 2:45 PM

One of the most impactful sessions of the day, this panel brought together Carol Gwilt and Don Briere (WEEDS®), Jodie Giesz-Ramsay (Cannabis Culture), Ted Smith (Victoria Cannabis Buyers Club), and Robert Laurie.

Through deeply personal storytelling, panelists reflected on activism, civil disobedience, legal battles, and the transition from legacy markets to legalization — challenging attendees to consider equity, justice, and participation in the modern industry.

Legal Trailblazer: Fireside Chat with John Conroy

High North Main Stage | 4:15 PM

The afternoon concluded with an intimate fireside chat featuring John Conroy (Conroy & Company) and Kirk Tousaw, reflecting on decades of constitutional challenges, policy advocacy, and the ongoing evolution of cannabis law in Canada.

Photo Gallery

Explore highlights from Tuesday afternoon below, featuring panels, masterclasses, and networking. Photos by Dominic Chan.

Tuesday January 20 – Morning Highlights & Photos

by Kaylz Szanto | Jan 23, 2026 | 2026 Vancouver, Grow Up News, Grow Up Photos

Tuesday, January 20 | AM Programming Recap

Day 2 of Grow Up Vancouver 2026 opened with a full slate of industry-defining conversations, technical masterclasses, and high-value networking, setting the tone for a packed Tuesday across the conference floor.

From macro-level policy and retail discussions on the High North Main Stage to deep scientific and cultivation-focused sessions in Ballroom B and the CANNA Breeders & Genetics Zone, the morning programming reflected the diversity, complexity, and momentum of Canada’s cannabis industry.

Opening Remarks

High North Main Stage | 10:00 AM

The morning began with welcoming remarks from Randy Rowe, President of Grow Up Cannabis Conference & Expo. His address officially kicked off Day 2, welcoming attendees back and highlighting the importance of collaboration, education, and dialogue as the industry continues to evolve.

State of the Industry: Challenges, Best Practices & the Road Ahead

High North Main Stage | 10:10 AM

Moderated by Dr. Sherry Boodram (CEO & Co-Founder, CannDelta Inc.), this flagship panel brought together senior leaders from across the cannabis ecosystem to examine the current realities facing the industry.

Panelists included:

• Margaret Brodie, CEO, Rubicon Organics

• Megan Preik, Founder & CEO, Accelerated Quality Solutions

• Rudi Schiebel, CEO & Founder, Habitat Life

• Shannon Kloet, Partner, Tamerlane Trading Co.

• Vikram Sachdeva, Founder & CEO, Seed & Stone

Discussion topics ranged from regulatory pressure and price compression to supply-chain efficiency, retail innovation, and data-driven decision-making. The session offered a candid assessment of what is working, what needs to change, and how adaptability is critical to long-term sustainability.

Masterclass: The Microbial Connection — Unlocking the Role of Endophytes in Cannabis Growth

Ballroom B | 10:30 AM

This science-focused masterclass featured Dr. Zamir Punja (Simon Fraser University) and Liam Buirs (Village Farms Canadian Cannabis), exploring the role of endophytes — symbiotic microbes living within plant tissues — in cannabis cultivation.

Attendees gained insight into how endophytes influence nutrient uptake, stress resilience, terpene and cannabinoid expression, and overall plant health, along with practical applications for commercial production and sustainable cultivation.

Bypassing the Bottleneck: Direct Delivery for Growers & Retailers in BC

High North Main Stage | 11:00 AM

Moderated by Jaclynn Pehota (Executive Director, Althing Consulting), this retail-focused panel examined BC’s Direct Delivery model and its impact on growers and retailers.

Panelists included:

• Andrea Dobbs, Village Bloomery

• Jonathan Fernandes, Green Amber

• Kyra Horvath, Pineapple Buds

• Laina Yates, Mercari Agency

The discussion explored real-world strategies for improving margins, speeding time-to-market, strengthening brand relationships, and differentiating retail offerings through direct partnerships.

Brands & Buyers Speed Networking (Morning Session)

Exhibit Hall A | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Running concurrently with stage programming, the morning Brands & Buyers Speed Networking session brought together cannabis brands and approved retail buyers in a fast-paced, structured networking environment. The event provided a valuable platform for product discovery, relationship building, and business development.

CANNA Breeders & Genetics Zone — Morning Sessions

Exhibit Hall A | 11:00 AM onward

The CANNA Breeders & Genetics Zone officially launched with an introduction by Daniel Joly (Courtside Genetics) and Kevin Jodrey (One Log Cookies R&D Facility), setting the stage for a day focused on genetics, preservation, and breeding innovation.

This was followed by:

• Breeding Cannabis: From Concept to Success
  Ryan Lee, Founder, Chimera Genetic Resource Management

Masterclass: LSO Growing & Re-Amending Soils

Ballroom B | 11:30 AM

This cultivation masterclass tackled the realities of maintaining long-term living soil systems. Speakers Amanda Renner, David Bernard Perron, Devon Thane, and Travis Lane shared practical strategies for diagnosing soil imbalances, restoring microbial diversity, and sustaining healthy, productive grows.

Turning Data into Dollars: Consumer Trends & Retail Optimization

High North Main Stage | 11:45 AM

Moderated by Katie Pringle (Marigold PR), this panel focused on how retailers can turn consumer data into actionable strategies.

Panelists included:

• Andrew Gordon, Eggs Canna

• Meaghan Ralston, Maggie Jane Marketing

• Michael Colbourne, Neobi Technology Corp.

• Riel Roussopoulos, Breadstack

The session explored consumer behaviour, inventory management, pricing strategies, and compliant promotional tools designed to drive profitability in a rapidly evolving retail landscape.

Why Landraces Matter: Himalayan Cannabis Genetics

Exhibit Hall A | 12:00 PM

The morning concluded with a genetics presentation by Ed Rosenthal, who took attendees on a deep dive into Himalayan landrace cannabis genetics. Drawing from decades of research and experience, Rosenthal highlighted the importance of preservation, adaptation, and genetic diversity in modern breeding.

Photo Gallery

Browse highlights from Tuesday morning below, featuring keynote moments, panel discussions, masterclasses, networking, and the CANNA Breeders & Genetics Zone.

Tuesday January 20 – Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients

by Kaylz Szanto | Jan 23, 2026 | 2026 Vancouver, Grow Up News, Grow Up Photos

Vancouver, BC — January 2026 — Grow Up Vancouver 2026 proudly recognized four outstanding leaders with Lifetime Achievement Awards, honouring decades of impact across cannabis advocacy, law, media, retail, and culture in Canada.

Presented live on the High North Main Stage during the Grow Up Conference & Expo, the Lifetime Achievement Awards celebrated individuals whose work helped shape the foundations of today’s legal cannabis industry — often long before legalization was within reach.

2026 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients

• Don Briere — WEEDS®

• Carol Gwilt — WEEDS®

• Jodie Giesz-Ramsay — Cannabis Culture

• John Conroy, KC — Conroy & Company

Together, these honourees represent the evolution of cannabis in Canada — from early activism and community education to landmark legal advocacy, trusted retail, and influential publishing platforms.

Don Briere and Carol Gwilt, co-owners of WEEDS®, were recognized for their longstanding leadership in cannabis retail and advocacy, helping bridge legacy culture and the regulated marketplace while prioritizing quality, integrity, and access.

Jodie Giesz-Ramsay, publisher of Cannabis Culture, was honoured for more than two decades of advocacy, media leadership, and civil liberties work that amplified cannabis reform nationally and internationally.

John Conroy, KC, one of Canada’s most influential legal advocates for cannabis law reform, was recognized for his role in landmark court cases that helped establish patient rights and shape Canada’s legalization framework.

The awards were presented across two moments during the Industry Awards Gala, with Briere, Gwilt, and Giesz-Ramsay honoured at 2:45 PM, followed by Conroy’s recognition at 4:15 PM.

“These awards acknowledge not only professional achievement, but courage, perseverance, and commitment to justice,” said the Grow Up Vancouver team. “The modern cannabis industry exists because of the groundwork laid by leaders like these.”

Grow Up Vancouver 2026 brought together industry professionals, policymakers, retailers, producers, and advocates from across Canada to connect, learn, and celebrate the people and progress shaping the future of cannabis.

Monday January 19 – Executive Summit – Afternoon Highlights & Photos

by Kaylz Szanto | Jan 19, 2026 | 2026 Vancouver, Grow Up News, Grow Up Photos

Afternoon at the Executive Summit: Conversations That Carried the Day Forward

Monday, January 19 | Ballroom A

As the Executive Summit moved into the afternoon, the conversations shifted from policy foundations to the realities of operating, competing, and evolving in a global cannabis industry. What unfolded was a progression of ideas—each session building on the last—offering both big-picture perspective and grounded, practical insight.

The afternoon began by looking outward.

The Understanding the Complexities of the International Cannabis Market panel set the tone with a candid discussion about where Canadian cannabis fits on the global stage. Moderated by Deepak Anand, the conversation brought together Carlos Rainero, Elliot McKerr, Scott Mayer, and Travis Heppner.
Panelists spoke openly about certification, compliance, export readiness, and the competitive advantages Canada holds—while also acknowledging the challenges that come with navigating international frameworks. The message was clear: global opportunity exists, but it requires intention, infrastructure, and patience.

From global markets, the focus narrowed to one of the fastest-moving product categories in cannabis.

At 2:00 PM, Cannabis Vapes: Changing Technology and an Expanding Market explored how innovation and consumer behavior are reshaping the vape landscape. Moderated once again by Deepak Anand, the panel featured Keith Bao, Kyle Michael, Peter Machalek, and Seibo Shen.
The discussion touched on evolving hardware, technological differentiation, regulatory pressure, and the growing sophistication of consumers—highlighting how quickly this category continues to change and where future growth may lie.

After a short health break, the Summit returned to a topic that underpins every part of the industry: regulation.

The Evolution of Canada’s Cannabis Regulations and Industry’s Approach to Government Relations brought together voices deeply engaged in advocacy, policy, and compliance. Moderated by David Brown, the panel included Bo Chen, Julia Cameron, Megan Preik, and Sarah Campbell.
Rather than focusing solely on obstacles, the conversation emphasized collaboration—how industry groups, operators, and regulators can work together, and why consistent engagement remains critical as the sector matures.

As the afternoon drew on, the lens shifted closer to home.

Different Pathways to Success: A Talk with Four BC Growers highlighted the diversity of cultivation models across the province. Moderated by David Brown, the panel featured Alannah Davis, Graeme Holfeld, Joshua Beckett, and Mathieu Aubin.
From scale to strategy, the growers shared honest reflections on what’s working, what isn’t, and how resilience has become one of the most important tools in today’s market.

The afternoon concluded with a moment of reflection and forward vision.

In Roots and Vision: Kevin Jodrey on the Next Decade of Cannabis, Kevin Jodrey drew on decades of experience to speak about legacy, genetics, quality, and culture. His closing keynote connected the past, present, and future—reminding the room that innovation and integrity must move together as the industry evolves.

The day wrapped with an Executive Cocktail Reception, where conversations continued beyond the stage—ideas exchanged, connections strengthened, and the themes of the afternoon carried forward into the evening.

Explore the photo gallery below for moments from the afternoon sessions at the Executive Summit.

Monday January 19 – Executive Summit — Morning Highlights & Photos

by Kaylz Szanto | Jan 19, 2026 | 2026 Vancouver, Grow Up News, Grow Up Photos