Vancouver, B.C., Nov. 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With an eight-year legacy and reputation for evolving alongside the industry, Grow Up Conference & Expo (“Grow Up”) leverages its deep sector knowledge to curate forward-looking and practical programming for Grow Up Vancouver 2026, presented by Quality Horticulture. Known for its depth across the cannabis value chain, from cultivation and extraction to retail, brands, policy, and ancillary services, the national B2B event will bring together hundreds of industry professionals from January 19-21, 2026, at the Vancouver Convention Centre (East Building), to help scale the sector for the long term.
Since 2017, Grow Up has hosted 11 national conferences, six Industry Awards Galas, three Canadian Cannabis Championships, and two CannaVision International Executive Summits, establishing itself as one of Canada’s most credible and connected industry platforms. From 2018 to 2024, the cannabis sector contributed $76.5 billion to Canada’s GDP, reflecting both the industry’s scale and the pressure points that come with growth. This event’s programming reflects an industry in motion, one navigating regulatory shifts, tight margins, and consolidation, alongside the optimism of new retail models, emerging technologies, and global export opportunities.
Programming Highlights
Grow Up’s Executive Summit, powered by StratCann, opens the conference on January 19 with a high-level forum for executives, investors, and policymakers. The Summit comes at a pivotal moment as Canada reflects on seven years of legalization and defines its future trajectory.
Featured speakers include: The Honourable Lana Popham on how cannabis continues to shape B.C.’s agricultural innovation and economic development. Kevin Jodrey, internationally recognized cultivator and educator, on genetics, legacy expertise, and the path forward for a maturing global industry.
From January 20-21, the Industry Conference & Expo connects the full cannabis ecosystem with over 100 speakers and exhibitors. This year’s Main Stage, presented by High North, will host thought-provoking discussions on topics like Direct Delivery in B.C., The Next Wave of Retail, and AI Transforming Cultivation.
The CANNA Breeders & Genetics Zone features North America’s top breeders, cultivators, and seed innovators, while the Brand Zone links Canada’s hottest cannabis brands with hundreds of retail buyers. Hands-on Masterclass sessions, Speed Networking, and live competitions like So You Think You Can Cook with Cannabis?, are designed to strengthen relationships and drive business outcomes.
The event will also honour key figures with Lifetime Achievement Awards whose decades of advocacy and entrepreneurship built the foundation for Canada’s regulated market, including Don Briere and Carol Gwilt, Co-owners of WEEDS; Jodie Giesz-Ramsay, Owner of Cannabis Culture; and John Conroy, Barrister and Solicitor.
Alongside its conference programming, Grow Up Vancouver offers dedicated networking spaces and evening events including the Kick-off Party on January 19 at Cannabis Culture and The New Amsterdam Café and the Official Networking Party on January 20 at Shark Club, supporting meaningful industry relationships throughout the week.
As Canada’s cannabis industry works toward sustainable long-term growth, events like Grow Up Vancouver play a vital role in shaping the roadmap for what comes next. With its proven track record, Grow Up remains a catalyst for collaboration and innovation in a maturing industry.
About Grow Up Conference & Expo
Since 2017, Grow Up Conference & Expo has served the Canadian cannabis industry as a leading national B2B event focused on cultivation, processing, retail, and innovation. Known for its engaging conferences, expansive expo floors, and strategic networking formats, Grow Up continues to bring together professionals who are driving the industry forward. Learn more at www.growupconference.com.
About Quality Horticulture
Quality Horticulture is a Canadian-owned, Burnaby-based wholesale distributor with over 25 years of experience serving the controlled-environment agriculture market. Providing high-quality solutions in lighting, nutrients, grow media, climate control, and propagation, the company is built on the values of integrity, value, and innovation. With coast-to-coast reach and a commitment to grower success, Quality Horticulture is a trusted partner for professional cultivators. Visit www.qualityhort.com for more.
CANNA PRESENTS THE NETWORKING LOUNGE AT GROW UP SHOW IN VICTORIA, OCTOBER 2-3, 2023
Grow Up Conference is excited to have CANNA presenting our Networking Area. Grow Up Conference will take place downtown Victoria at the Victoria Conference Center, October 1-3, 2023. Dutch company CANNA is the pioneer and global market leader in the world of intensive indoor growing, and we are thrilled to be working along side them once again. The CANNA networking lounge has become a show staple; a comfortable meeting place for friends and colleagues alike to put up their feet after exploring the show floor.
Early Entry – Morning Coffee and Pastries 9am – 10am @ CANNA will be providing coffee and pastries for exhibitors, all-access and VIP pass holders.
TOMMY CHONG MEET-N-GREET 9am – 10am @ CANNA Networking Lounge Open to All Access and VIP delegates only.
CANNA is there to help all growers at every scale to achieve an optimal result, by offering easy-to-use, quality & consistent products. Research and development is the cornerstone of CANNA and they pride themselves on sharing their extensive knowledge & experiences with growers worldwide.
CANNA Production facility in the Netherlands Video:
Get the full CANNA Experience by exploring the pillars of their philosophy below:
INNOVATION & RESEARCH
CANNA has partnered with a fully licensed cannabis cultivator, Mauve et Herbes to establish their first Canadian Research & Knowledge center with the objective to further conduct on-going research for the best input on how to grow quality crops.
CANNA Canada Research Facility Video:
QUALITY & CONSISTENCY
CANNA strives for security in the production process by using consistent and clean inputs, and ultimately to ensure that the grower has, one less thing to worry about!
EASE OF USE
We offer different product ranges for multiple ways of growing. Each product range is specifically designed for the characteristics of the growing medium. We’ve got your back when it comes to maximizing the yield of your crops.
SHARING KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCES
At CANNA, they are passionate people that strive to help growers understand plants better, overcome challenges, support each other and get optimal results. The CANNAtalk events offer the unique opportunity for passionate growers to interact and discuss current opportunities and challenges within the industry.
VICTORIA, BC – August 8, 2023 – Grow Up Conference and Expo, Canada’s premier cannabis event, is thrilled to announce legendary cannabis advocate and icon, Tommy Chong, as the keynote speaker for this year’s event taking place October 1st – 3rd, 2023 at the Victoria Conference Centre.
Known for his influential work in comedy and his staunch support for cannabis legalization, Tommy Chong will reflect on his career and life in cannabis at our fireside chat moderated by his son and podcast host, Paris Chong at the Grow Up VIP Conference on Sunday, October 1. In his keynote, Chong will share his unique insights into the cannabis industry, his early years in Vancouver, his experiences as an activist, and his front-row seat to the ever-changing cultural impact of cannabis over the years.
In addition to his keynote, Chong will be honoured with the Legends of Cannabis Award at the Grow Up Industry Awards Gala on the same day. This inaugural award celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to the growth of the cannabis industry both locally and globally.
“It’s a tremendous honour to have Tommy Chong as our keynote speaker and recipient of the Legends of Cannabis Award,” said Randy Rowe, President and CEO of Grow Up Conference. “His fearless advocacy and undeniable humour have made a lasting impact, not just on our industry, but on the world. We can’t wait to hear his insights and stories on stage with his son, Paris Chong.”
Grow Up Victoria is a full-spectrum B2B cannabis event that connects thousands of cannabis companies with a complete view of the industry. Celebrating growers, suppliers, and retail, Grow Up focuses on education, collaboration, and growth in the rapidly evolving cannabis market.
The announcement of Tommy Chong as keynote speaker adds a significant highlight to an already packed agenda that includes over 60 exhibitors, the Brand and Buyers Zone, our new and exciting brand and retailer speed networking presented by Weed Pool, and a wide array of networking opportunities.
Tickets for the event, including VIP passes to Tommy Chong’s keynote, are available now. Reserve your spot and be part of this exciting and pivotal event in the world of cannabis.
CANNA PRESENTS THE NETWORKING LOUNGE AT GROW UP SHOW IN EDMONTON MAY 2023
Grow Up Conference is excited to have CANNA presenting our Networking Area & The Growers Luncheon for this edition. Grow Up Conference will take place downtown at the Edmonton Convention Center on May 28-30, 2023. Dutch company CANNA is the pioneer and global market leader in the world of intensive indoor growing, and we are thrilled to be working along side them once again. The Growers Luncheon has been a highlight at previous Grow Up Conferences and we look forward to another successful event with a CANNAtalk spinoff. The CANNA networking lounge has become a show staple; a comfortable meeting place for friends and colleagues alike to put up their feet after exploring the show floor.
CANNA is there to help all growers at every scale to achieve an optimal result, by offering easy-to-use, quality & consistent products. Research and development is the cornerstone of CANNA and they pride themselves on sharing their extensive knowledge & experiences with growers worldwide.
CANNA Production facility in the Netherlands Video:
Get the full CANNA Experience by exploring the pillars of their philosophy below:
INNOVATION & RESEARCH
CANNA has partnered with a fully licensed cannabis cultivator, Mauve et Herbes to establish their first Canadian Research & Knowledge center with the objective to further conduct on-going research for the best input on how to grow quality crops.
CANNA Canada Research Facility Video:
QUALITY & CONSISTENCY
CANNA strives for security in the production process by using consistent and clean inputs, and ultimately to ensure that the grower has, one less thing to worry about!
EASE OF USE
We offer different product ranges for multiple ways of growing. Each product range is specifically designed for the characteristics of the growing medium. We’ve got your back when it comes to maximizing the yield of your crops.
SHARING KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCES
At CANNA, they are passionate people that strive to help growers understand plants better, overcome challenges, support each other and get optimal results. The CANNAtalk events offer the unique opportunity for passionate growers to interact and discuss current opportunities and challenges within the industry.
The nominations have been processed and we have our list of finalists for the 3rd Annual Grow Up Awards. For a complete list of finalists, please visit https://growupawards.com/vote/nominees
Join us as we celebrate the best in the industry.
• Cocktail Reception • 2022 Grow Up Industry Awards Ceremonies
Reception: 5:00PM // Awards Gala: 5:30PM //
Tickets on sale now. LIMITED VIP Tables are available. Theatre seating is general admission. $60/ticket. LIMITED VIP tables of 8 available: $600
INNOVATION & RESEARCH
VICTORIA, BC – August 8, 2023 – Grow Up Conference and Expo, Canada’s premier cannabis event, is thrilled to announce legendary cannabis advocate and icon, Tommy Chong, as the keynote speaker for this year’s event taking place October 1st – 3rd, 2023 at the Victoria Conference Centre.
Recent Comments