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:
2023 Alberta

Shakir Tayabali

Shakir Tayabali is a results-oriented and dynamic leader with a hands-on management style, a sharp eye for detail, and strong analytical and problem-solving skills. He is known for his ability to inspire people to deliver innovative solutions that translate into high performance and client satisfaction. With over 11 years of experience as the former Executive Vice President of Sales for Merrco Payments, and VP Integrated Solutions at Global Payments Inc., Shakir has an impressive track record of success as a leader and executive level professional.

During his time at Global Payments, Shakir held various leadership positions, including VP Integrated Solutions and Vice President Customer Experience. As Vice President Customer Experience, he provided strategic development and execution while being responsible for a portfolio of $150M in annual revenue. Shakir oversaw the entire customer experience from onboarding to ongoing maintenance and retention analytics and loyalty programs for the entire SB merchant base. He also oversaw installation and service teams nationally, including third-party vendors and streamlined and optimized processes to gain savings in both boarding/issue resolution time frames and operating costs. As the EVP of Sales, Marketing and Partnerships at Merrco Payments, Shakir led the sales team to a national average of 60% in the Cannabis vertical.

Shakir Tayabali is currently the Chief Executive Officer of the Independent Retail Cannabis Collective, where he continues to apply his extensive leadership experience and strong track record of success. As a cannabis professional and enthusiast, Shakir is passionate about the industry and is committed to delivering exceptional results. In his current role, he is responsible for leading the collective and driving growth and profitability. Shakir’s dynamic leadership style, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills enable him to inspire his team to deliver innovative solutions that translate into high performance, and member and partner satisfaction. www.irccollective.com