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Executive Summit

Executive Summit

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Where Leadership, Policy, and Innovation Meet

Monday January 19, 2026

The Executive Summit powered by StratCann kicks off Grow Up Vancouver with a full day of thought leadership and high-level discussion designed exclusively for C-suite executives, founders, investors, and decision-makers in the cannabis industry.

Taking place Monday, January 19, 2026, at the Vancouver Convention Centre East, the Executive Summit explores the business of cannabis through an executive lens – addressing market strategy, regulatory reform, investment trends, and international opportunities that define the next decade of growth.

Expect meaningful dialogue, data-driven insights, and access to the people shaping the future of cannabis.

Program Highlights

  • Keynote Conversation with Minister Lana Popham – How BC’s agricultural integration is redefining cannabis policy, access to funding, and export potential.

  • Data Insights, Trends & Future Projections – Comprehensive market analysis from leading analysts.

  • Navigating U.S. Cannabis Reform – What cross-border policy shifts mean for Canadian operators.

  • International Cannabis Markets – Understanding new export channels, compliance standards, and investment pathways.

  • Roots and Vision: Kevin Jodrey on the Next Decade of Cannabis – A closing fireside chat offering strategic insights on legacy, innovation, and leadership.

  • Executive Cocktail Reception — Wrap up the day by connecting with industry peers, policy leaders, and investors in an exclusive networking setting.

Who Should Attend

Designed for CEOs, founders, investors, government representatives, and senior executives, the Summit fosters collaboration and strategic thinking at the highest level of the cannabis value chain.

Join the Conversation

Grow Up’s Executive Summit is your opportunity to step back from day-to-day operations, gain perspective, and connect with peers who are defining the direction of cannabis in Canada and beyond.

Executive Summit Schedule

Executive Summit powered by StratCann
Monday January 19, 2026

Monday January 19th
Categories:
Executive Summit
10:00 AM
Room: Ballroom A

Welcoming Address

Monday January 19th
Categories:
Executive Summit
10:15 AM
Room: Ballroom A

A Conversation with Minister Popham: Cannabis and the Evolution of Agricultural Policy in BC

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.
Monday January 19th
Categories:
Executive Summit
11:00 AM
Room: Ballroom A

Data Insights, Trends & Future Projections


  •  Dion Gouldsborough
    Wholesale Category Manager,
    BC Liquor Distribution Branch
    Canada

  • Erin Butler
    Chief Financial Officer,
    Canadian Cannabis Exchange
    Canada

  • Jeff Ring
    Sr. Director Supply Chain,
    BC Liquor Distribution Branch
    Canada

  • Robin Schmid
    Wholesale Category Manager,
    BC Liquor Distribution Branch
    Canada

  • Steph Woods
    Head of Sales,
    Headset
    USA
(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!
Monday January 19th
Categories:
Executive Summit
12:00 PM
Room: Ballroom A

Navigating U.S. Cannabis Reform: What It Means for Canada

(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

Monday January 19th
Categories:
Executive Summit
12:45 PM
Room:

NETWORKING BREAK

    Monday January 19th
    Categories:
    Executive Summit
    1:30 PM
    Room: Ballroom A

    Understanding the Complexities of the International Cannabis Market

    (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
    Monday January 19th
    Categories:
    Executive Summit
    2:15 PM
    Room: Ballroom A

    Cannabis Vapes: Changing Technology and an Expanding Market


    •  Deepak Anand
      Principal,
      ASDA Consultancy Services
      Canada

    • Keith Bao
      Managing Partner,
      AVEO Vapour Devices
      Canada

    • Kyle Michael
      Founder & Chief Growth Officer,
      FTLD Distribution Co.
      Canada

    • Nafisa Subedar
      Regional Growth & Sales Consultant - Canada & USA,
      Emerald Lane Recruitment
      Canada

    • Peter Machalek
      CRO ,
      Greentank
      Canada
    (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
    Monday January 19th
    Categories:
    Executive Summit
    3:00 PM
    Room:

    HEALTH BREAK

      Monday January 19th
      Categories:
      Executive Summit
      3:15 PM
      Room: Ballroom A

      The Evolution of Canada’s Cannabis Regulations and Industry’s Approach to Government Relations

      (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
      Monday January 19th
      Categories:
      Executive Summit
      4:00 PM
      Room: Ballroom A

      Different Pathways to Success: A Talk with Four BC Growers

      (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
      Monday January 19th
      Categories:
      Executive Summit
      4:45 PM
      Room: Ballroom A

      Roots and Vision: Kevin Jodrey on the Next Decade of Cannabis

      Monday January 19th
      Categories:
      Executive Summit
      5:30 PM
      Room: Ballroom A

      COCKTAIL RECEPTION

        Monday January 19th
        Categories:
        6:00 PM
        Room:

        KICK-OFF PARTY

          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