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Budtenders

Discover the Best of Cannabis at Grow Up Vancouver

Tuesday, January 21, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Vancouver Convention Centre – East Building

Join us for Budtender Day at Grow Up Vancouver, where you’ll experience exclusive product sampling, hands-on learning, and direct connections with top cannabis brands from across Canada.

This is your chance to explore the Brands Zone, designed specifically for budtenders like you — the tastemakers and educators of the retail experience. Discover what’s new, connect with producers, and gain insights that will make you a go-to expert in your store.

Why Attend?
At Grow Up’s Brands Zone, you’ll have the chance to:

  • Experience Product Sampling: Get early access to new cannabis products, with one-time maximum samples of up to 3.5 grams of dried cannabis (or equivalency) per product. Samples are for licensee use only and not for resale.

  • Connect with Leading Brands: Meet directly with the people behind the products and learn what sets them apart.

  • Expand Your Knowledge: Stay ahead of the curve on the latest product innovations, genetics, and cultivation insights to better serve your customers.

  • Enjoy Exclusive Deals: Take advantage of promotions available only to budtenders attending Grow Up Vancouver.

  • Network and Celebrate: Meet fellow budtenders, share experiences, and enjoy the energy of Canada’s most interactive cannabis event.

Budtenders, Win a dabX:

Purchase your Budtender Pass before January 15, 2026 and you’ll be entered for a chance to win a dabX go.

The dabX go delivers fast, flavourful dabs with the push of a button — no torch, no mess, no compromise. Whether you’re new to concentrates or a seasoned pro, this device will elevate your experience and redefine how you dab.

We’re excited to announce that we’re giving away a chance to win one of 3 dabX go 2024 – Grow Up Product of the Year.

The dabX go is the next evolution in the quest for fast, easy, full flavor dabs. every detail has been relentlessly tested and fine tuned to provide the perfect dabbing experience in the palm of your hand.

The go was engineered to provide maximum vapor production while preserving the pristine taste of your concentrates. with the push of a button, Its unique design allows for a dabbing experience only previously achievable with a torch and nail, while also eliminating the hassle of preparation, cleaning and maintenance.

If you are new to concentrates, there is no easier way to get started. for the veteran dabber, it will change the way you dab forever.

Don’t Miss Budtender Day – Tuesday, January 21, 2026

To make it easier for everyone to attend, Grow Up Vancouver is offering a special $30 Budtender Pass, giving you full access to the Brands Zone and industry conference.

Get ready to expand your horizons and elevate your career in the cannabis industry. Secure your spot at Grow Up’s Brands and Buyers Zone by purchasing your $30 Budtender Day ticket today!

BUDTENDER PASSES ALSO INCLUDES:
Monday, January 20th • 8:00 pm – 12:00 pm
Official Industry Networking Party (tbd)

Budtender Agenda

Grow Up Vancouver is built to celebrate and empower budtenders – the frontline influencers of the cannabis retail experience. Budtender Day offers a full day of programming, live experiences, and product discovery inside the Brand Zone, where you’ll connect directly with licensed producers, craft growers, and innovative cannabis brands.

From live culinary showcases to motivational panels and product sampling opportunities, Budtender Day is your opportunity to engage, learn, and be recognized as a key part of the cannabis community.

View Full Conference Schedule Here ›

Budtender Day
Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Wednesday January 21st
Categories:
11:30 AM
Room: High North Main Stage
(Interactive Session) Upselling isn’t pushy—it’s about enhancing the customer’s journey. Through guided scenarios, budtenders will learn techniques for increasing basket size while ensuring customers leave with the best possible product for their goals.

Moderated By: Jodie Giesz-Ramsay

PRESENTED BY: TETHER

Wednesday January 21st
Categories:
12:00 PM
Room: Exhibit Hall A

  • Chef Solomon Johnson
    Chef and Owner,
    Ubora Co
    USA

  • Julie Stevens
    Co-Host,
    Roll With It Entertainment Podcast
    Canada

  • Necole Hinds
    Cannabis Chef, Educator, and Advocate,
    Faded Living

  • Reverend Kelly
    Award-Winning Canadian Cannabis Activist, Educator, & Media Producer,
    The KGL Network® and Kelly’s Green Lounge®
    Canada
About the Show:

So You Think You Can Cook With Cannabis is a live cannabis culinary competition that blends infused food, entertainment, and education.

Developed in Ontario by KGLTV Media and Aggressive Organics, the show has been featured on stages across the province and is now being brought to British Columbia for a two-part live competition series.

The Grand Finale will take place live in the exhibit hall at Grow Up Expo Vancouver, one of Canada’s most respected cannabis industry conferences (Wednesday January 21, 2026 from 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm).

Presented by KGLTV Media & Aggressive Organics and In Partnership with New Amsterdam Café

Wednesday January 21st
Categories:
12:30 PM
Room: High North Main Stage
(Presentation) Getting a product onto dispensary shelves is the easy part — keeping it there is where brands win or lose. This session breaks down the real strategies that drive sell-through in competitive cannabis markets without racing to the bottom on price.

We’ll dig into how to build retail relationships that last, design promotions that protect margin while still moving volume, and leverage data to position products with intention. Attendees will walk away with practical frameworks they can apply immediately — whether they’re launching a new SKU or trying to revive a slow mover.

Shelf space doesn’t equal success. Sell-through does.
Wednesday January 21st
Categories:

(Panel Discussion) Being a budtender is more than a job—it can be a long-term career path in the cannabis industry. This motivational closing session outlines opportunities for advancement, professional certifications, and personal branding in cannabis retail.


Moderated By: Jodie Giesz-Ramsay

PRESENTED BY: TETHER