Start your day in the Breeders Zone with opening remarks from our Conference Program Director Andrew Nunez-Alvarez. This session will introduce the day’s programming focused on phenotyping, genetics, and cultivar development. Attendees will get a clear overview of what to expect, who’s speaking, and how to make the most of the day's programming. Questions are welcome throughout the day - this is a safe space for growers and breeders to connect, learn, and explore the future of cannabis genetics.

Moderated By: Chris Johnson, Big League Genetics.

Panel Description:
A fresh clone or seed line arrives with little data and high expectations. Experienced growers explain the checkpoints they use - vigor in veg, node spacing, stretch, trichome density, and finishing time - to decide if a new cultivar deserves production space. Hear how they set baseline targets, fine-tune environmental variables and nutrients on the fly, and read plant signals to bring out a cultivar's best traits on the first run. Walk away with a clear framework for testing unfamiliar genetics, comparing results, and making confident keep‑or‑cut calls.

Moderated By: Dave Auger, Big League Genetics.

Panel Description:
This panel brings together seasoned breeders and phenohunters from across North America to share the techniques and lessons they’ve gained through years of hands-on work with the plant. Aimed at experienced cultivators looking to deepen their knowledge of phenotyping and cultivar development, the session will explore practical approaches to breeding and selection. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask direct questions during an open Q&A with some of the most respected names in the field.

Moderated By: Daniel Joly, Apollo Green Nursery.

Panel Description:
Academic institutions are refining infertile cultivars and seed‑uniformity protocols, while industry breeders chase commercially-viable rapid market wins. This session puts both worlds at one table. Academic cannabis researchers and breeders will share new findings on genetic stabilization and uniform seed lines; industry breeders will detail the real‑world pressures that shape their breeding objectives and selection choices. Together they’ll outline how intentional parent selection, tighter phenotypic baselines, and data‑backed markers can produce consistent, scalable cultivars. Attendees will leave with an understanding of where academia is pushing the science, where industry practice diverges, and how purposeful collaboration can move cannabis genetics forward.

Moderated By: Kevin Jodrey.

Panel Description:
Bring your toughest questions to this open-format roundtable featuring leading cannabis phenohunters & breeders with decades of experience. Whether you’re curious about advanced hybridization or refining your favorite cultivars, you’ll get real-time answers and actionable insights from award winning breeders across North America. This is a rare opportunity to learn directly from experts in one place - and after the session, you can keep the conversation going with our special guest speakers at The Genetic Exchange, where you’ll have a friendly space to network and build connections.

Facilitated By: Daniel Joly, ApolloGreen.

Special Event Description:
At Grow Up's Genetic Exchange Networking Event, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a collection of seeds and clones from reputable breeders and growers, showcasing their finest projects. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a homegrower seeking to add to your collection, you’ll find an array of cultivars to suit your needs – from medicinal to recreational, and from classic favorites to rare and exotic varieties.

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. Please remember that 1 seed = 1 g of dried cannabis and participants are allowed to possess a maximum of x4 non-flowering plants.

Expand your cannabis cultivation network at The Genetic Exchange networking event. Trade cannabis seeds and clones while networking with experienced breeders and growers in the industry. This event provides a platform to discover new genetic varieties, exchange cultivation tips, and build professional relationships with like-minded growers and breeders.