Breeder Zone

Toronto, ON

We are look forward to hosting our 11th Conference and Expo just minutes from the Toronto International Airport. Don’t miss out on Canada’s largest collection of growers, retailers and brands.

The Genetic Exchange is back in town, Alberta! 🌱🤝

Bring your seeds & clones to trade with like-minded growers at Grow Up Alberta’s Genetic Exchange, presented by Pop Seeds Collective, Neptune of the North, 34th Street Seed Co., Big League Genetics, and ND Supplies.

The Genetic Exchange Event Details:
🗓️ Date: October 1, 2024
⌚ Time: 2:30 pm to 3:00 pm
📍 Location: Edmonton Convention Centre (Hall D)
🧬 Bring your seeds & clones to swap from home!

As per The 🍃 Act, guests over the age of 19 attending Grow Up Alberta are permitted to carry up to 30 grams of 🍃, or the equivalency in other product formats, and 4 vegetative plants. Expand your genetics and connect with the growing community!

All participants must have a VIP Delegate badge, 2-Day Industry Pass or One-Day Conference Pass in order to attend this event.

Breeder Zone
Tuesday, October 1, 2024

Tuesday October 1st
Categories:
10:00 AM
Room: Hall D - Foyer
Discover the future of cannabis consumption lounges in Alberta with industry pioneers. As regulations evolve, this panel will explore the anticipated development and impact of these lounges, focusing on their potential to create safe, social spaces for cannabis use. Discover the challenges and opportunities these lounges present, and learn how they can enhance the cannabis experience for consumers while fostering a sense of community.
Moderator: Nathan Mison
Tuesday October 1st
Categories:
10:30 AM
Room: Hall D
Join us as we learn the science and innovation behind developing new and exciting cannabis cultivars tailored for the Canadian market. This panel will explore the importance of ensuring consistent phenotypic expressions and how to avoid the pitfalls of phenotypic plasticity. Learn from industry experts about the key factors that create a full menu of offerings, including growth structure, flowering time, yields, and commercial viability. Discover what licensed producers (LPs) can improve on and gain valuable insights to optimize your breeding program and investment.
Moderator: Dr. Av Singh
Tuesday October 1st
Categories:
10:45 AM
Room: Hall D - Foyer
Explore the world of cannabis metrics that matter most to consumers in this insightful panel. Beyond just THC and terpenes, understand the importance of factors like cannabinoid profiles, flavonoids, and product consistency. Join industry experts as they discuss how these metrics influence consumer choices, product quality, and market trends. Learn how to effectively communicate these critical attributes to educate and attract informed consumers. Gain a comprehensive understanding of what truly drives consumer preference in the cannabis market.
Moderator: Jenn Bocking
Tuesday October 1st
Categories:
Have you ever thought about how cannabis extraction might turn the whole industry upside down (and sort of already is)? Join Imran Rashid, founder of Extractwise, as he looks at the evolution of cannabis extraction, extraction in other industries, and consumption habits, to make the case that extraction will dictate the future of just about all, if not every part of the cannabis industry.
Hosted by: Charlie Gibson
Tuesday October 1st
Categories:
11:00 AM
Room: Hall D
Join us for an in-depth panel discussion on the critical role of phenohunting and genetic selection in modern cannabis cultivation. This session will focus on how breeders can align their efforts with consumer trends and preferences, creating a successful menu selection. Discover the latest advancements in genetic innovation and how to strategically plan breeding programs to set new genetics in motion. Hear from leading experts about practical applications and benefits of integrating advanced genetics into your breeding practices, driving success from seed to harvest.
Moderator: Dr. Av Singh
Tuesday October 1st
Categories:
11:30 AM
Room: Hall D
Explore the intersection of plasticity breeding, tissue culture, cultivation and solventless extraction in this technical Breeders Zone workshop. Learn how these innovative techniques are shaping the future of cannabis cultivation, leading to stronger, more productive plants. Gain practical knowledge on how to implement these strategies for optimal cultivation outcomes.
Moderator: Dr. Av Singh
Tuesday October 1st
Categories:
12:00 PM
Room: Riverview Room
The Grower's Luncheon is a complimentary invite-only event presented by Biofloral and Grow Opportunity. These are the brightest minds in cannabis growth, sharing experiences, best practices and goodwill amongst growers. And this camaraderie will come in handy as the push for industry standardization grows. They’ll talk about a year of challenges, adjusting to regulations, and offer insight into how Health Canada can adjust its role to promote better growing and cannabis quality. Many relationships were forged among growers last year, and it’s not far-fetched to see a future advocacy group forming over the lunch table.

Please note that limited seating will be available for this event. If you are a grower (Commercial, Micro, Home and Legacy) and would like to be invited to the Grower's-Only Luncheon, please fill out the registration form by clicking the button below:





 

 
Tuesday October 1st
Categories:
12:00 PM
Room: Hall D - Foyer

  • Alex Sandman
    Founder,
    IYKYK Concentrates // The Hash Matters (portfolio)

  • Amy Green
    CEO,
    Veterans Wellness Alliance

  • Keith Bao
    Managing Partner,
    AVEO Vapour Devices

  • Michael Elkin
    Founder,
    The CannaBrokr
    Canada

  • Rebecca Murphy
    National Veteran Service Coordinator,
    Post Traumatic Growth Association (PTGA)
Join us as we address the mental health challenges faced by cannabis industry professionals in this panel. Explore strategies to support mental well-being in the workplace and hear from experts on creating a resilient, healthy workforce. Additionally, learn how cannabis can play a role in promoting mental health, with a special focus on veterans and their unique experiences. Join us for an in-depth discussion on fostering a supportive and thriving environment in the cannabis sector.
Moderator: Keith Bao
Tuesday October 1st
Categories:
12:45 PM
Room: Hall D - Foyer
Discover the exceptional and unconventional cannabis products that are making waves in the industry. Learn about the latest innovations that go beyond traditional flower and edibles. From novel consumption methods to unique formulations, hear from leading producers and innovators about what sets these products apart in a crowded market. Learn how these creative solutions are shaping consumer experiences and setting new industry trends. Be prepared to leave with new ideas and a deeper appreciation for cannabis innovation.
Moderator: Di Spencer
Tuesday October 1st
Categories:

  • Alex Sandman
    Founder,
    IYKYK Concentrates // The Hash Matters (portfolio)

  • Charlie Gibson
    ,
    Neptune of the North

  • Tim Powers
    Founder/Co-Founder,
    Kind Selections / Cannabis Tolling Solutions
Join us as we explore the evolving landscape of cannabis extraction, focusing on the distinctions between solvent and solventless product offerings in the legal market. Discover the latest processing innovations and learn which methods align with the needs of growers, processors, and market demand. This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the current trends and future directions in cannabis processing.
Hosted by: Charlie Gibson
Tuesday October 1st
Categories:
1:30 PM
Room: Hall D
Discover the art and science of reviving old-school cannabis genetics in this comprehensive workshop led by seasoned Canadian cultivators and breeders, this session will explore the methods and practices of breeding with classic genetics. Learn about the historical significance of these strains. Gain practical insights into integrating classic strains into modern breeding programs.
Moderator: Dr. Av Singh
Tuesday October 1st
Categories:
1:45 PM
Room: Hall D - Foyer
Explore the future of sustainable cannabis packaging with our panel on packaging and recycling innovations. Learn about the latest advancements in eco-friendly materials and recycling programs designed to reduce the environmental impact of cannabis packaging. Hear from industry leaders about successful initiatives and best practices for creating a greener cannabis industry.
Moderator: Aly Benson
Tuesday October 1st
Categories:
Looking to start a career in cannabis extraction? Join this session for expert insights on how to create and climb your own ladder. Industry veterans share their career hacks on navigating the turbulent waters of the extraction industry. You've never met extraction guidance counsellors - now's your chance. Don't miss out!
Hosted by: Imran Rashid
Tuesday October 1st
Categories:
2:00 PM
Room: Hall D
    Expand your cannabis cultivation horizons at the Seed & Clone Exchange, sponsored by Neptune of the North, Pop Seeds Collective, ND Supplies, and 34th Street Seed Co. Trade valuable seeds and clones while networking with top breeders and growers in the industry. This event provides a platform to discover new genetic varieties, exchange cultivation tips, and build lasting professional relationships.

    The Grow Up Genetic Exchange is committed to fostering a responsible and inclusive environment. All participants must adhere to provincial and federal regulations and guidelines for cannabis cultivation and seed distribution and no one shall be in possession on more than 30g of flower or equivalent. Remember: 1 seed = 1 g of dried cannabis. Maximum 4 non-flowering plants per guest.

             
    Tuesday October 1st
    Categories:
    2:30 PM
    Room: Hall D - Foyer
    Join us for a special presentation on the proposed regulatory changes from Health Canada that will shape the cannabis industry. Key topics include modifications to edibles, the implementation of clear packaging, the addition of view windows, and the removal of the 1-gram restriction. David Brown of StratCann will moderate a Q&A session following the presentation, offering attendees the chance to engage directly with the updates.