ABLE BC – Grow Up Conference: BC Cannabis Wholesale Update Highlights
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Thank You for an Incredible Grow Up Vancouver
Our biggest Grow Up since 2019, sold-out events, championship history, and what’s next in Toronto.
Grow Up Vancouver 2026 united Canada’s cannabis sector for three impactful days of leadership, learning, and celebration—becoming the biggest Grow Up gathering since 2019.
Energy filled every space, from the sold-out Executive Summit powered by StratCann to packed conference sessions, an active exhibition hall, and fully booked networking events—reflecting a sector advancing through innovation, partnership, and resilience.
👉 View the full photo gallery: https://growupconference.com/grow-up-news/grow-up-2026-official-parties/97040/
Sold-Out Executive Summit & Networking
This year’s Executive Summit powered by StratCann (Monday, January 19th, 2026) reached full capacity, welcoming government representatives, senior operators, and national industry leaders for high-level conversations on regulation, market stability, and the future of Canadian cannabis.
Momentum continued with a completely sold-out Speed Networking session (Tuesday, January 20th & 21st, 2026) , where retailers, brands, and buyers connected through fast-paced, deal-focused meetings that reinforced Grow Up’s role as a true business catalyst for the sector.
Canadian Cannabis Championship Highlights
One of the defining moments of the week was the Canadian Cannabis Championship (Monday, January 19th) hosted at Cannabis Culture/High Score , celebrating quality, consistency, and craft from producers across the country.
Origine Nature made history by earning back-to-back Gold with Golden Gauth, an achievement that underscores the strength of Quebec’s craft cannabis community and the national calibre of competition.
This year also marked the debut of Grow Up’s custom digital judging app , streamlining live scoring, improving transparency, and modernizing the judging experience for one of Canada’s most respected cannabis competitions.
Industry, Culture & Community
Beyond the conference program, attendees gathered for two official Grow Up Vancouver evening celebrations that carried the conference’s energy into the city.
On Monday, January 19, the industry came together across Pot Block, with activations at New Amsterdam Cafe and Cannabis Culture/High Score, creating a vibrant, community-driven kickoff that blended culture, connection, and classic Vancouver cannabis hospitality.
On Tuesday, January 20, the celebration continued at Shark Club, where exhibitors, speakers, and attendees connected in a larger social setting that reinforced the relationships and momentum built throughout the week.
Across the exhibition floor, masterclasses, and panel discussions, conversations focused on export readiness, cultivation innovation, genetics, retail evolution, and Indigenous leadership — clear signals of where Canada’s cannabis industry is headed next.
Next Stop: Grow Up Toronto — June 1–3, 2026
We’re excited to announce that Grow Up Toronto 2026 will take place June 1–3, 2026 . Tickets go on sale Monday February 16th.
Previous exhibitors receive priority access to reserve booth space ahead of the public launch.
Thank you to our speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, partners, and attendees who made Vancouver such a milestone moment. Your continued support keeps Grow Up at the center of Canada’s cannabis industry.
We look forward to seeing you in Toronto.
Previous Exhibitors Receive Front of the Line Booth Selection and Pre-Sale Discounted Rates until
February 15th, 2026: https://growupconference.com/toronto/reserve-your-booth/
Quick Community Update: Our Instagram 💚
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Following the event, our primary Instagram — which had just reached 10.1K followers and 380,000+ views — was unexpectedly removed.
👉 Please follow our active account: https://www.instagram.com/growupcanada @growupcanada
Your support (and shares) help us rebuild fast.
https://www.instagram.com/growupcanada FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM
Thank you to our supporting partners
Thank you to our Supporting Partners
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Platinum Partners
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Silver Partners
Volunteer Partner
Main Stage Partner
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Exhibitors
Retail Buyers
Brands
Wednesday, January 21st – Afternoon Highlights — Grow Up Vancouver 2026
Wednesday, January 21 | PM Programming Recap
Wednesday afternoon at Grow Up Vancouver 2026 shifted the focus toward long-term brand sustainability, genetics collaboration, cultivation performance, and career development across retail and production.
From strategic brand positioning and hands-on genetic exchange to advanced cultivation science and professional growth in retail, the afternoon programming delivered practical insights and peer-driven learning for cannabis professionals at every stage of their journey.
Stop Racing to the Bottom: Scaling Cannabis Brands Without Discounts
High North Main Stage | 12:30 PM
The afternoon opened with a results-driven presentation on how cannabis brands can succeed without relying on price compression.
Led by Andy De Filippis (Cannabis Brand & Sales Strategy), the session broke down what truly drives sell-through in competitive retail environments. Attendees explored how to build lasting retail relationships, design promotions that protect margins, and use data to position products with intention.
The discussion reinforced a clear takeaway: shelf space alone doesn’t equal success — sell-through does.
Seed Exchange
Exhibit Hall A | 12:30 PM
Running concurrently, Grow Up’s Seed Exchange brought breeders and cultivators together for a hands-on genetics networking experience.
Hosted by Kevin Jodrey (One Log Cookies R&D Facility), the session allowed participants to explore a wide range of seeds and clones from reputable breeders, spanning classic cultivars to rare and emerging genetics. Beyond exchange, the event fostered collaboration, knowledge sharing, and relationship-building within a responsible, compliant environment.
Pride in the Role: Building a Career as a Budtender
High North Main Stage | 1:00 PM
This motivational panel reframed budtending as a long-term, professional career path within the cannabis industry.
Moderated by Jodie Giesz-Ramsay (Cannabis Culture), speakers included Jesse Paul (Smyle Brands), Sabine Schwirtz (High Buds Club), Sarah Seale (Sarah Seale Inc.), and Unity Marguerite Whittaker (Small Town Pot Shop).
Panelists discussed career progression, personal branding, certifications, and professional pride, encouraging budtenders to invest in their growth and see their role as foundational to cannabis retail success.
Presented by Tether.
Under Pressure: Controlled Stress Strategies for Quality
Ballroom B | 1:15 PM
This advanced cultivation masterclass examined how controlled stress can be strategically applied to enhance plant performance, cannabinoid expression, and terpene development.
Speakers Angie Fulton (Rubicon Organics), David Bernard Perron (Organic Cannabis Consulting), Heather Smith (LCPT Inc.), and Taylor Kirk (Fluence) explored techniques including crop steering, light manipulation, drought management, and environmental adjustments.
Through case studies and practical examples, the session demonstrated how growers can deliberately balance stress to push crops toward optimal quality without increasing risk.
Seed Exchange Roundtable and Q&A
Exhibit Hall A | 1:30 PM
Closing out the afternoon genetics programming, breeders reconvened for an open roundtable discussion following the Seed Exchange.
Moderated by Daniel Joly (Courtside Genetics), with participation from Kevin Jodrey (One Log Cookies R&D Facility), the session encouraged direct dialogue around breeding approaches, cultivar selection, and the genetics shared earlier in the day.
The roundtable created space for deeper discussion, reflection, and collaboration among breeders and growers focused on advancing genetic integrity and innovation.
Photo Gallery
Explore highlights from Wednesday afternoon below, featuring panels, masterclasses, genetics exchanges, and career-focused conversations from the final day at Grow Up Vancouver 2026. Photos by Dominic Chan.
Tuesday January 19 – Retail Buyers & Brand Speed Networking Highlights
On Tuesday, January 20, Retail Buyers & Brand Speed Networking took place at Grow Up Vancouver, bringing together a diverse mix of licensed producers, cannabis brands, and retail decision-makers from across British Columbia and beyond.
Designed to facilitate efficient, high-value conversations, the session created a structured environment where brands could connect directly with retail buyers responsible for purchasing, product selection, and category strategy. Through timed rotations, participants were able to introduce their offerings, ask targeted questions, and quickly determine opportunities for alignment and follow-up.
The session featured participation from a wide range of cannabis brands and retailers, including BC Cannabis, Burb, Cahoots Cannabis, Craftport, Costa Canna, Dabble Cannabis Co., Forty 8 North, Great Gardener Farms, Island Cannabis Co., Jackpot Cannabis, Kootenay Cultivar, Kootenay’s Finest Craft Cannabis, La Canapa, Mary Jane Cones, Mood Cannabis Co., Nahual, North Shore Cannabis, Original Farm, Pacific Coast Cannabis, Paradise Valley Botanicals, Rosebud Farms, Seed & Stone, Smoker Farms, Smyle Brands, Sweetgrass Cannabis, Team Cannabis, WEEDS, and many more.
By bringing buyers and brands together in a focused, results-driven format, Retail Buyers & Brand Speed Networking continues to be one of the most impactful business activations at Grow Up Cannabis Conference & Expo. For many participants, the session served as the starting point for continued conversations, product reviews, meetings, and long-term partnerships beyond the conference floor.
The photo gallery below captures moments from the session, highlighting the energy, engagement, and real-time business connections that defined the room throughout the day.
Get Involved in Future Speed Networking Events
Brands, retailers, and partners interested in participating in future Retail Buyers & Brand Speed Networking sessions are encouraged to get in touch.
Please contact Tarah at retail@growupconference.com for more information.
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Wednesday January 21 – Morning Highlights & 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
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
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
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:
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Margaret Brodie, CEO, Rubicon Organics
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Megan Preik, Founder & CEO, Accelerated Quality Solutions
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Rudi Schiebel, CEO & Founder, Habitat Life
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Shannon Kloet, Partner, Tamerlane Trading Co.
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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:
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Andrea Dobbs, Village Bloomery
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Jonathan Fernandes, Green Amber
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Kyra Horvath, Pineapple Buds
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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:
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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:
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Andrew Gordon, Eggs Canna
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Meaghan Ralston, Maggie Jane Marketing
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Michael Colbourne, Neobi Technology Corp.
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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
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
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Don Briere — WEEDS®
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Carol Gwilt — WEEDS®
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Jodie Giesz-Ramsay — Cannabis Culture
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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 – Canadian Cannabis Champions 2026
Announcing the 2026 Canadian Cannabis Championship Winners
After a full day of judging, discussion, and celebration, we’re proud to announce the 2026 Canadian Cannabis Championship winners. This year’s Championship brought together top producers from across the country, showcasing the quality, consistency, and innovation that continue to define Canadian cannabis.
Following live judging and careful evaluation by an expert panel, three standout entries rose to the top:
🥇 Gold — Golden Gauth
Origine Nature (Quebec)
Golden Gauth claimed 1st place, earning the Gold distinction and taking the top spot at the 2026 Canadian Cannabis Championship.
🥈 Silver — GastroPop
Amani Craft Cannabis Ltd. (British Columbia)
GastroPop secured 2nd place, receiving the Silver award for its standout performance in this year’s competition.
🥉 Bronze — Ripped Off Runtz
Mauve et Herbes (Quebec)
Ripped Off Runtz rounded out the podium with 3rd place, earning the Bronze award.
Congratulations to all the winners and finalists who continue to raise the bar for Canadian cannabis from coast to coast.
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