Press Release

Announcing the Winners of the 3rd Annual 2024 Canadian Cannabis Championship

Edmonton, Alberta – October 30, 2024

Grow Up Conference and Expo is pleased to announce the winners of the 3rd Annual Canadian Cannabis Championship, held on September 29th and 30th at the Edmonton Convention Centre in Edmonton, Alberta. This year’s championship highlighted the finest Canadian cannabis in both the Flower and Vape categories, celebrating the craftsmanship, innovation, and expertise in the industry.

Flower Category Winners

The competition on September 29th featured an impressive lineup of 13 talented growers from across the country.
The winners for the Flower category are:

• 1st Place: Golden Gauth by Origine Nature
• 2nd Place: Ripped Off Runtz by Mauve et Herbes
• 3rd Place: Frosted Fruit Cake by Royal Harvest

Vape Category Winners

On September 30th, the spotlight shifted to vaping, showcasing the highest-quality products and formulations.
The winners in the Vape category are:

• 1st Place: Fantasm by IRIS Labs
• 2nd Place: Dab Bods – Dab N Go Original Z Badder by Stigma Grow
• 3rd Place: R2 Honey Oil by Retro Cannabis

These exceptional products were evaluated by a panel of industry experts, who assessed entries based on flavor, aroma, potency, and overall quality. The championship provided an opportunity for growers and producers to demonstrate their talent, dedication, and passion for cannabis cultivation and product development.

Additional Note

We would also like to acknowledge that the pre-roll and hash categories were not evaluated during this year’s championship due to limited capacity. These categories will be reintroduced and judged at our 4th event in Toronto, allowing us to highlight even more outstanding products.

Acknowledgment of Sponsors

We extend our sincere gratitude to our sponsors, whose support was instrumental in the success of this year’s Canadian Cannabis Championship:

Grow Up Conference and Expo remains a leading platform for recognizing the expertise and innovation within the cannabis community. We look forward to continuing to celebrate the best in cannabis at future events, and we thank everyone who contributed to making this year’s championship a memorable experience.

For more information about Grow Up Conference and Expo, please visit https://canadiancannabischampionship.com/

Media Contact: Grow Up Conference & Expo
rrowe@growupconference.com
1-866-GROW-UP-1

Cannabis Icon Tommy Chong to Deliver Keynote Speech and Host Meet-and-Greet Events in His Hometown

Edmonton, AB – [September 3, 2024] – Grow Up Conference and Expo is thrilled to announce that Tommy Chong, legendary cannabis advocate, comedian, and actor, will be returning to his hometown of Edmonton to participate in a series of special events. Tommy Chong, who was born in Edmonton, will be a featured speaker on Monday, September 30, 2024, and will be available for exclusive meet-and-greet sessions during the Riverboat Kick-off Party on September 28 and again on September 29.

Chong, a celebrated figure in the cannabis community, is best known as one-half of the iconic comedy duo Cheech & Chong. His involvement in cannabis advocacy has spanned decades, making him a beloved and influential voice in the industry. His return to Edmonton marks a special homecoming and is sure to be a highlight of the Grow Up Alberta event.

“It’s always a joy to come back to Edmonton, the place where it all began for me,” said Tommy Chong. “I’m excited to connect with the cannabis community here, share my journey, and celebrate how far we’ve come in embracing cannabis culture.”

Key Highlights of Tommy Chong’s Appearance at Grow Up Alberta:

• Interview with Tommy: Join us for a captivating discussion as cannabis icon and legend Tommy Chong returns hone and sits down with his son Paris Chong for an intimate and enlightening conversation. Delve into their shared experiences, and unique perspectives on the evolving cannabis landscape. From legendary moments to future possibilities, you will get an exclusive glimpse into the world of cannabis icon.
• Riverboat Kick-off Party Meet-and-Greet: On the evening of Saturday, September 28, 2024, attendees of the Riverboat Kick-off Party aboard the Edmonton Queen will have the exclusive opportunity to meet Tommy Chong. This intimate gathering will allow guests to interact with Tommy in a relaxed and scenic setting along Edmonton’s beautiful river valley.
• September 29 Meet-and-Greet: Tommy Chong will also be available on Sunday, September 29, for an additional meet-and-greet session, providing another chance for fans and cannabis enthusiasts to connect with the legend.

About Grow Up: Grow Up is Canada’s premier cannabis conferences, bringing together industry leaders, experts, and enthusiasts to share knowledge, network, and celebrate the advancements in cannabis cultivation, business, and culture. This year’s event will take place from September 29 to October 1, 2024, at the Edmonton Convention Centre, featuring a variety of panels, exhibitions, and networking opportunities.

Tickets & Registration: Tickets for the Riverboat Kick-off Party, Tommy Chong’s keynote speech, and all Grow Up Alberta events are available for purchase now. Visit growupconference.com/alberta for more information and to secure your spot.

Riverboat Kick-off Party

Date: Saturday, September 28, 2024
Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Edmonton Queen, 9734 98 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, T6C 4P6

Set Sail on an Unforgettable Evening!
Kick off your Grow Up Alberta experience in style aboard the Edmonton Queen for our exclusive Riverboat Kick-off Party. Join us for an evening of networking, entertainment, and stunning views of Edmonton’s River Valley as we celebrate the start of an incredible weekend.

What to Expect:

• Exclusive Access: Be one of the select 200 guests to enjoy an intimate evening on the beautifully renovated Edmonton Queen.
• Meet & Greet: A special opportunity to meet cannabis icon Tommy Chong.
• Gourmet Food: Indulge in a delicious selection of food, all included with your ticket.
• Live DJ: Dance the night away to the beats of a live DJ, set against the backdrop of Edmonton’s skyline.
• Cash Bar: Sip on your favorite drinks, available for purchase at the cash bar.

Ticket Pricing:

• Early Bird Special: $145 for the first 100 tickets
• Regular Rate: $175

Transportation:

• Shuttle Service: Complimentary shuttle buses will be available from our host hotels, Courtyard Marriott and Chateau LaCombe. Shuttles will run from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM for arrival and 10:30 PM to 12:00 AM for departure.

Limited Availability—Book Your Spot Today!

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to kick off Grow Up Alberta in a spectacular setting. Secure your Riverboat Kick-off Party tickets now—early bird pricing is available for the first 100 guests, so act fast!

Learn more:
Website https://futurola.com/

Schedule a Consultation:
https://futurola.com/pages/schedule-a-consultation
IG @futurola

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Grow Up is pleased to announce the recipients of the Grow Up Equity Grants, an initiative sponsored by the Ontario Cannabis Store (OCS) to enhance the presence and participation of BIPOC-owned brands in the cannabis industry. After an open application process and a randomized selection to ensure fairness, eight deserving Ontario-based cannabis businesses have been chosen. These recipients represent a diverse and innovative cross-section of the industry, each bringing unique perspectives and products to the forefront.

2024 Equity Grant Recipients:

1.  ASPIRE Infusions Inc.
2.  GMLL Pharma Inc / Smokes
3.  Red Market Brand
4.  Ripe Flower
5.  Rosinstar Inc
6.  SESS Holdings
7.  TOQi Technologies Ltd.
8.  ufeelu

Grant Benefits:
Each will receive a 5′ x 10′ brand booth, a sampling add-on, electrical, participation in a Speed Networking session, and promotional support—totaling an approximate value of $4,200 each.

Enhanced Networking Opportunities at Grow Up’s Brands and Buyers Zone
In addition to celebrating our Equity Grant recipients, we are also thrilled to highlight the Brands and Buyers Zone presented by ND Supplies, at our upcoming tradeshow. This highlight of Grow Up Toronto aims to foster direct connections between innovative cannabis brands and top retail buyers. It’s designed to provide unprecedented access and promotional opportunities for brands to showcase their latest products and for buyers to discover new offerings in one dynamic space. The Brands and Buyers Zone is an essential stop for participants looking to expand their market reach and explore the latest trends in cannabis retail.

About the Selection Process:
The selection process was carried out with transparency and a commitment to fairness. A randomized method was used to select the recipients, ensuring every applicant had an equal opportunity to be awarded, regardless of their size or previous industry connections. This approach highlights Grow Up’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusivity within the cannabis industry.

The Equity Grants and the Brands and Buyers Zone are part of Grow Up’s ongoing efforts to support underrepresented entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry and to provide platforms that promotes  business growth and innovation.

Join Us in Toronto
We invite all industry stakeholders to join us at the upcoming Grow Up Conference, where they can interact with our grant recipients in the Brands and Buyers Zone, participate in networking events, and gain valuable insights into the future of cannabis. It’s an opportunity not only to celebrate diversity but also to engage with the forefront of industry innovation.

Looking Forward:
Grow Up and OCS are excited to see the contributions these brands will bring to the upcoming tradeshow and the broader industry. We believe that supporting diversity not only enriches the cannabis industry but also fosters innovation and community growth.

For more information about the Grow Up Equity Grants and the upcoming tradeshow, please visit our website.

About Grow Up Conference & Expo
Established in 2017, Grow Up Conference & Expo has become a benchmark event in the Canadian cannabis industry, known for its high-profile speakers, diverse programming, and commitment to uniting forward-thinkers and experts. For more information, visit Grow Up Conference & Expo.

For further information and image requests, please contact:
Brooke Russell
Marigold Marketing & PR
brussell@marigoldpr.com
905-510-3204

The Equity Grant Application Form is now closed. Successful candidates will be informed by email on Monday, April 29, 2024.

Mendo Medical Joins Forces with Grow Up Conference to Launch Mendo Pavilion in Toronto

Montreal, QC and Toronto, ON — February 26, 2024 — Mendo Medical, a leading figure in the cannabis industry and operators of mendocannabis.ca, announced today its partnership with the prestigious Grow Up Conference, unveiling the much-anticipated Mendo Pavilion at this year’s expo in Toronto from May 27-29, 2024. This strategic collaboration marks a significant milestone in cannabis industry events, offering an unparalleled platform for top cannabis brands and industry professionals.