Tommy Chong Returns Home

We are 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, including our Kick-Off Riverboat Party, meet-n-greet and an interview with his son Paris.

Keynote: Minister Nally

The Impact of the Red Tape Reduction Act on Alberta’s Cannabis Industry

Learn how the Red Tape Reduction Act is reshaping Alberta’s cannabis industry. We will discuss the progress made in reducing regulatory hurdles, enhancing sampling and retail experiences, and explore future initiatives such as farmgate sales and public consumption.

Canadian Cannabis Championship

Grow Up is proud to be bringing the Canadian Cannabis Championship back to Alberta, Sunday September 29, 2024, at the Edmonton Convention Centre. The top licensed producers in cannabis flower/pre-rolls/vape catridges and concentrates will be competing for the title of best in Canada by live judging in the Grow Up Consumption Lounge. Consumers welcome.

Canada's Largest Industry Tradeshow

Get your company in front of top growers, the best brands, largest retailers, suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, hundreds of top speakers/keynotes and thousands of delegates.

Riverboat Kick-off Party Early

Limited Seats to this Exclusive Event

Saturday September 28, 2024 (8:00 pm – 11:00 pm)
Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Riverboat Kick-off Party aboard the Edmonton Queen. This exclusive event is limited to just 150 tickets, offering an intimate setting to kick off the Grow Up Alberta weekend. Your ticket grants you access to a night filled with food, music, and the stunning scenery of Edmonton’s River Valley. A special opportunity to meet cannabis icon Tommy Chong as we cruise along the river. Enjoy the beats of a live DJ. Drinks will be available for purchase at the cash bar.

Retail Buyer Application

Grow Up brings Brands and Buyers together.

Are you ready to take your cannabis retail business to new heights? Step into the Brand and Buyers Zone, where retail store owners, managers, and buyers can connect with industry-leading brands and uncover the latest cannabis products and innovations.

Previous Speaking Engagements at Grow Up:
2025 Toronto

Janani Nadesananthan

Janani Nadesananthan is the National Director of Sales at the Independent Retail Cannabis Collective (IRC Collective), where she plays a critical role in shaping Canada’s independent cannabis retail landscape. At IRC Collective, Janani works to support 1,000+ independent retailers across the country with access to data-driven insights, exclusive opportunities, and sustainable business tools designed to keep them competitive in an increasingly consolidated market. Her mission is rooted in advocacy for small business, fostering collaboration, and cultivating a marketplace where care and community hold just as much value as scale.

Janani’s journey into cannabis began with a foundation in genetics, giving her a systems-level understanding of how complex structures thrive. This is a perspective she now applies to business development and retail operations. Before joining the IRC Collective, she gained experience working with both craft and corporate LPs in many capacities, giving her a firsthand view of both dynamics and the operational challenges retailers face on the ground. Her ability to bridge these two worlds has made her a powerful advocate for independent retailers, working to ensure they not only survive, but thrive.

For Janani, cannabis is ultimately about empowerment with her focus being supporting local businesses, breaking down stigma, and finding balance in both work and wellness. As the industry continues to evolve, she’s proud to help shape its future toward greater inclusivity, sustainability, and long-term success for independents.

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