Conference Schedule

British Columbia’s decision to bring cannabis under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food marks a pivotal shift for the industry — one that redefines how producers, investors, and policymakers approach growth and sustainability. In this fireside chat, Minister Lana Popham will discuss how integrating cannabis into BC’s agricultural framework opens the door to new funding streams, tax alignment, and participation in established agri-business programs.

This forward-looking conversation will explore what the policy shift means for licensed producers, how it can strengthen competitiveness and export potential, and the role government can play in advancing cannabis as a key driver of BC’s rural economy and innovation ecosystem.

(Presentation Series) A series of presentations on cannabis wholesale and retail sales figures and trends in BC, Canada, and international markets. Geek out with charts and figures!

(Panel Discussion) As the U.S. inches closer to federal cannabis reform, Canadian operators are watching closely. This session explores the latest developments in U.S. legislation, including potential rescheduling, federal legalization efforts, and state-by-state shifts — and what these changes could mean for Canada's market, investment landscape, exports, and competitive positioning. Join leading policy experts and industry voices as we break down the cross-border impact and opportunities.

Moderated By: David Brown

(Panel Discussion) The international cannabis market has seen rapid growth over the last several years. Can this momentum continue? How should Canadian cannabis companies position themselves for where the market is going?

Moderated By: Deepak Anand

(Panel Discussion) Cannabis vapes are one of the fastest growing product categories. The hardware and technology is changing rapidly, as are consumer preferences. We’ll explore some of these changes with our panel of experts.

Moderated By: Deepak Anand

(Panel Discussion) The cannabis industry faces an array of regulatory challenges at the federal and provincial levels. How is the industry addressing these issues, and how can you get involved?

Moderated By: David Brown

(Panel Discussion) BC is home to growers and processors of all sizes and styles. We’ll speak with four from different parts of the province about what is and isn’t working, the direction of the industry, and lessons learned so far.

Moderated By: David Brown

Get ready to light up the night!

Join us for Grow Up’s Official Kick-Off Party following the Canadian Cannabis Championship — proudly hosted at Amsterdam Café and Cannabis Culture. This can’t-miss celebration brings together the cannabis community for an unforgettable evening of networking and good vibes.

Plus, get ready to mix, mingle, and meet the exhibitors while building meaningful business connections.

When: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Who: Open to all Grow Up delegates, speakers, sponsors, and exhibitors

     

10:00 am - 5:00 pm

(Panel Discussion)  The cannabis industry is at a pivotal moment. With ongoing regulatory challenges, price compression, and shifting consumer expectations, it’s clear that survival alone isn’t enough—adaptation is essential. This panel brings together leaders from across the sector to assess where we are now, what’s working, and what urgently needs to change. From supply chain efficiencies and retail innovation to regulatory reform and data-driven decision-making, we’ll explore best practices that are driving real results. Whether you're a producer, retailer, or policymaker, this session offers a clear-eyed look at the current landscape—and bold ideas for building a more resilient, profitable, and inclusive future.

Moderated By: Dr. Sherry Boodram

(Masterclass Session) Join Dr. Zamir Punja and Liam Buirs as they explore the hidden allies within cannabis plants—endophytes. These symbiotic microbes live inside plant tissues, enhancing nutrient uptake, stress resilience, and secondary metabolite production, including cannabinoids and terpenes. Sharing their cutting-edge research as well as providing practical applications of endophytes in commercial production. The discussion will highlight how endophytes influence plant health, reduce reliance on external inputs, and shape sustainable cultivation practices. Attendees will gain insights into harnessing microbial partnerships to unlock cannabis’ full genetic and therapeutic potential.

(Panel Discussion) BC’s Direct Delivery model is shifting control from centralized distribution to the hands of growers and retailers. This panel explores how micro and small-scale producers are using direct delivery to increase margins, speed up time-to-market, and build stronger partnerships with stores. Retailers will share how direct relationships with cultivators are helping them differentiate their offerings and better serve local markets. Plus, hear from a marketing agency on how strategic brand support can enhance the impact of direct delivery. Join us for a practical discussion on the benefits, trade-offs, and real-world strategies for making direct delivery work.

Moderated By: Jaclynn Pehota

11:00 am - 1:00 pm (2 hours)

Separate Ticketed Event
Free for brand zone exhibitors and approved retail buyers.

Mark your calendars! On Tuesday, January 20, 2026, our Brands and Buyers Speed Networking event returns. This dynamic experience brings together innovative cannabis brands and key retail buyers, creating the perfect platform to highlight your products, make valuable connections, and grow your business.

(Masterclass Session) We may preach "less is more" but we've all done it. Join our experts as they dive into the challenges cultivators face when living soil beds lose their balance. Over time, nutrient imbalances, salt buildup, and microbial shifts can compromise plant health and yields. Our panel will examine strategies for diagnosing issues, restoring microbial diversity, and re-amending soils with mineral and organic inputs. The conversation will highlight practical tools— from soil testing to biological inoculants— that help revitalize struggling beds. Attendees will learn how to maintain long-term soil health, ensure balanced nutrient uptake, and sustain thriving cannabis crops.

(Panel Discussion) The cannabis retail landscape is evolving fast — and success lies in understanding your customer and acting on the data. In Part 1, dive into the latest consumer insights, including shifting demographics, emerging product trends, and key purchase drivers. In Part 2, learn how to turn those insights into action through data-driven inventory management, smart pricing, and targeted promotions. This hands-on session equips you with the tools to attract new segments, retain loyal customers, and boost profitability — all while staying compliant in a dynamic market.

Moderated By: Katie Pringle

(Panel Discussion) As cannabis retail continues to evolve, one of the biggest opportunities lies in forging stronger connections between retailers and brands. Moderated from the retailer’s perspective — “How can I, as a retailer, make these connections?” — this discussion will explore how collaborative partnerships can help stores stand out in a competitive market. From exclusive product deals and co-marketing initiatives to working directly with small producers, panelists will share strategies that strengthen relationships and unlock mutual growth. We’ll also look ahead to innovations shaping retail’s future, including personalization, loyalty ecosystems, and the potential of consumption spaces. Retailers and brands alike will leave with practical insights to build partnerships that create lasting impact.

Moderated By: Rob Laurie

 

(Masterclass Session) What is the future of cannabis propagation?  In our search for Sensimillia we jumped to clones but as cannabis becomes increasingly cultivated in all parts of the world, vegetative propagation is being challenged by pests and diseases.  Join our panel of experts as they explore how different propagation methods shape crop performance, consistency, and scalability. Breeders, tissue culture specialists, and commercial cultivators will compare the benefits and challenges of F1 hybrid seeds, in vitro–derived plantlets, and traditional clones. Topics include genetic stability, pathogen management, uniformity in large-scale production, and the implications for both craft and commercial markets. Attendees will gain insights into which propagation strategies best support quality, efficiency, and resilience, while looking ahead at innovations driving the next generation of cannabis cultivation.

2:00 pm - 4:00 pm (2 hours)

Separate Ticketed Event
Free for brand zone exhibitors and approved retail buyers.

Mark your calendars! On Tuesday, January 20, 2026, our Brands and Buyers Speed Networking event returns. This dynamic experience brings together innovative cannabis brands and key retail buyers, creating the perfect platform to highlight your products, make valuable connections, and grow your business.

(Masterclass Session) Find out the homegrown connection to what has quickly become the most popular extract in the country.  Our panel will trace the evolution of this solventless extract from its grassroots origins to its current place in premium cannabis markets. Industry pioneers, extract artists, and product innovators will discuss the early DIY methods, the technological advancements in presses and filtration, and how rosin has become a benchmark for purity and terpene preservation. The conversation will also explore consumer trends, product diversification, and where solventless extraction is headed in both craft and commercial spaces. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of rosin’s legacy, its present innovations, and its exciting future.

(Panel Discussion) Before legalization, there were decades of resistance, risk, and resilience. This deeply personal panel brings together voices from the front lines of the cannabis movement to share untold stories — from courtroom battles and storefront raids to civil disobedience and grassroots activism.

Together, they’ll explore what it meant to fight for access in a criminalized world, and how the transition to a regulated industry has impacted the culture, community, and values that built it. Through powerful storytelling and sharp reflection, this conversation honors the past while asking hard questions about justice, inclusion, and who truly gets to participate in the future of cannabis.

Whether you’re part of the new wave or the old guard, these are the voices that shaped the foundation of today’s industry — and they have something to say.

Moderated By: Robert Laurie

 

(Masterclass Session) "The way we treat that plant, the way we work with it will define the future!" were the wise words from our dear friend Frenchy.  With that knowledge in mind our illustrious panel examines the art and science of growing cannabis specifically for hash production. Our panel includes breeders, cultivators, and hashmakers (many wearing multiple hats)  will explore how genetics, terroir, and cultural practices influence trichome density, size, and integrity in outdoor environments. The panel will highlight strategies for optimizing plant health, harvest timing, and handling to preserve resin heads destined for fresh frozen extraction. From soil biology to environmental stress management, attendees will learn how to cultivate with resin quality as the goal. This discussion offers valuable insights for producing premium solventless concentrates from outdoor harvests.

(Panel Discussion) Co-packing has become a key strategy in the cannabis industry, enabling brand development through partnerships with licensed producers. This panel will explore how co-packing and contract manufacturing support product innovation, streamline market entry, and help brands scale in a competitive landscape. Learn about best practices, regulatory considerations, and how to build strong, compliant partnerships.

(Fireside Chat) Join legendary cannabis lawyers John Conroy and Kirk Tousaw for an intimate and thought-provoking fireside chat exploring the legal evolution of cannabis in Canada and beyond. From groundbreaking constitutional challenges to policy advocacy and the fight for civil liberties, Conroy and Tousaw have been at the forefront of shaping cannabis law for decades.

This session will reflect on the key legal battles that helped pave the way for legalization, unpack ongoing regulatory and criminal justice issues, and offer insights into where cannabis law is heading — including opportunities for reform, the future of international trade, and emerging human rights concerns.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear from two of the most influential legal minds in cannabis, as they share stories, challenges, and visions for the future.

Moderated By: Kirk Tousaw

(Offsite - Venue TBA)

(Panel Discussion) Export markets are a key growth frontier for Canada’s cannabis industry, but reaching international shelves requires navigating a complex web of regulations, quality standards, and logistics. This panel offers a comprehensive look at what producers and exporters need to do to become “export ready” across all product categories—cannabis flower, concentrates, edibles, and more. With a special focus on the fast-growing concentrates market, industry experts will discuss unique challenges and opportunities, from product formulation and packaging to compliance and global demand. Join us to learn how to position your entire product portfolio for success in competitive export markets.

Moderated By: Deepak Anand

10:00 am - 3:00 pm

(Masterclass Session) Modern cannabis cultivation is slightly different from aluminum foil-lined closets of our past.  Our panel of experts will discuss how environmental, light, and growing media sensors enable cultivators to precisely monitor and control conditions, optimizing plant health, yield, and quality. Topics include real-time data collection, automated adjustments, and the integration of sensor systems into indoor and greenhouse operations. Panelists will share practical insights, case studies, and emerging technologies that help growers make data-driven decisions, reduce resource waste, and prevent common cultivation problems. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of how sensor technology is shaping the future of cannabis production.

(Panel Discussion) Indigenous communities across British Columbia are actively shaping the cannabis industry today, carving out spaces for economic growth, cultural expression, and self-determination. This panel highlights current projects, business models, and partnerships led by Indigenous entrepreneurs and leaders. Learn how Indigenous growers and retailers are navigating today’s regulatory framework, accessing markets, and overcoming barriers. Hear firsthand about successes, ongoing challenges, and immediate opportunities for collaboration and growth in BC’s cannabis sector.

(Masterclass Session) The essence of the MasterClass is simply to get growers talking.  Our expert cannabis cultivators will join with other expert growers in the room for an unfiltered exchange of ideas, tips, and experiences from the front lines of cultivation. This lively panel encourages open conversation on everything from lighting, nutrients, and propagation techniques to pest management, strain selection, and maximizing yield. Attendees will hear real-world insights, creative problem-solving approaches, and practical hacks that often aren't in textbooks. With a focus on peer-to-peer learning, this session is a rare opportunity to absorb the collective wisdom of seasoned growers and walk away with actionable knowledge to elevate your own cannabis cultivation practices.

(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

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

(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.

(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

(Masterclass Session) There is a fine line between too much and not enough stress...but what is that line? Our expert panel delves into the strategic use of stress in cannabis cultivation to optimize plant growth, yield, and quality. Expert growers will discuss controlled stress techniques, including crop steering, light manipulation, training and trellising, drought management, and other environmental adjustments. Panelists will explore how these stressors influence plant physiology, cannabinoid and terpene production, and overall crop performance. Through case studies and practical examples, attendees will learn how to apply stress deliberately and safely, balancing risk and reward. This session offers a deep dive into the science and art of stress-based cultivation, empowering growers to push their crops to their full potential.