2024 CONFERENCE AGENDA (archived)

8:00-8:45 AM - Registration, Coffee, and Exhibits

Start your day by registering, grabbing some coffee, and exploring our exhibit area.

8:45-9:00 AM - Welcome and Opening Remarks

Official opening of the conference with a welcome from our hosts.

9:00-9:45 AM - Mainstage Presentation

The State of the Minnesota Cannabis Market: Local and National Perspectives
Presenters: Leili Fatehi, Partner & Principal, Blunt Strategies and Sumer Thomas, VP of Regulatory Operations, Canna Advisors

Dive into an in-depth and nuanced analysis of what makes Minnesota's cannabis market distinct and what can be learned from best practices and experiences from across the nation. This presentation will compare and contrast Minnesota's cannabis industry with those of other states, highlighting successful strategies, regulatory challenges, and market opportunities that could influence Minnesota's cannabis landscape. 

9:45-10:30 AM - Mainstage Presentation

Smaller Scale, Bigger Success: Planning and Building Infrastructure for Minnesota's Unique Market
Presenter: Bruys Henderson, VP of Business Development, Urban-Gro

Minnesota's cannabis market presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges with its focus on smaller-scale, vertically integrated operations. This presentation will focus on planning and designing facilities tailored to the state's regulatory environment. Attendees will learn about intent-driven architectural designs, purpose-engineered systems, and smart construction methods that align with operators' goals while optimizing operational and capital expenditures for achieving success in Minnesota's distinctive cannabis market.

10:45-11:30 AM - Mainstage Presentation

Updates from the Office of Cannabis Management
Presenters: Charlene Briner, Interim Director and Eric Taubel, General Counsel

Insights from the Office of Cannabis Management including updates on the Office's development, timeline for rulemaking, proposed legislative changes affecting licensing and application procedures, and more.

11:30-12:15 PM - Mainstage Panel

Stakeholder Panel: Standing Up a Minimally Viable Industry
Panelists: Mandy Nintzel and Jamielee Maturi, M.N. Technology; Shane Krahn, Pure Jade; Kyle Marinkovich, Northern Diversified Solutions; and Shawn Weber, MCGCIC

Discussion with key stakeholders on what's necessary to ensure Minnesota has the infrastructure, regulatory framework, and capacity to support a market that meets consumer demand efficiently and sustainably and is poised for future growth.

12:15-1:15 PM - Lunch & Exhibits

Enjoy lunch and visit our exhibits to network and learn about the latest products and services.

1:15 PM - 4:00 PM - Breakout Sessions

Attendees will have the option to join sessions across five different tracks. Each track will host three sessions (at 1:15, 2:15, and 3:15), focusing on specific aspects of the cannabis industry.

• Cultivation and Product Development Track:

  • 1:15 PM - 2:00 PM - Unlocking Potential: Advances in Cannabis Genetics and Plant Breeding
    Presenters: Bryant Jones, CHARCCO and Clemon Dabney, III, Ph.D., Doc Dabs
    
    This session will explore the advancements in genetic research, breeding techniques, and biotechnological innovations shaping the future of cannabis cultivation. Attendees will learn about the significance of genetics in meeting consumer demands, adapting to regulatory changes, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in cannabis cultivation. Whether you're a cultivator, researcher, or simply intrigued by the science behind the plant, this session will deepen your understanding of cannabis genetics and its pivotal role in the industry's evolution.

  • 2:15 PM - 3:00 PM - Advanced Technologies for Cultivation
    Presenters: Quinton Krueger, BudScout and Bruce Granger, Granger Consulting
    
    Step into the future of cannabis cultivation with this cutting-edge session featuring insights from AessenseGrows and BudScout. Discover how the integration of sophisticated technologies such as AI-driven canopy scouting robots and advanced hydroponic systems are revolutionizing the way we grow cannabis. This session is a must-attend for cultivators looking to harness the power of technology to enhance productivity, ensure consistency in quality, and drive sustainable growth in their cannabis operations.
    
    

  • 3:15 PM - 4:00 PM - Post-Harvest Quality & Profitability
    Presenter: Ed Wells, Cannatrol
    
    This session explores cutting-edge methods to enhance your cannabis yield and quality post-harvest. Discover the science behind optimal water activity levels, innovative drying and curing techniques, and how controlling vapor pressure can significantly increase terpene retention and overall product value. Learn about how post-harvest processing can not only improve profitability but also ensure a consistent, high-quality product that keeps customers returning.
    
    

• Retail and Consumer Experience Track:

  • 1:15 PM - 2:00 PM - Creating a Great Customer Retail Experience via E-commerce & Brick-and-Mortar - Sponsored by Natreum
    Presenters: Mike Gawlik, Natreum and Jeremy Johnson, AIQ
    
    This session provides innovative insights and practical strategies for creating an impactful customer journey both in and across physical and digital realms. Topics include how to create captivating, memorable in-store engagements and optimizing online platforms to connect, engage, and retain customers.

  • 2:15 PM - 3:00 PM - Enhancing Customer Experience Through Homegrowing Support
    Presenters: Bob Walloch, CannaJoy & Jamie Croyle, House of Oilworx
    
    As more consumers express interest in cultivating their own cannabis, there's a growing opportunity for cannabis retailers to support and engage with this segment of the market. This session will explore how retailers can extend their consumer experience to include support for homegrowers, from selling home cultivation kits and supplies to offering educational workshops and expert advice. Panelists will discuss strategies for retail businesses to become go-to resources for home cultivators, thereby fostering community, loyalty, and an expanded retail experience. Attendees will learn about the potential benefits to their business, including increased foot traffic, higher sales of related products, and deeper customer relationships.

  • 3:15 PM - 4:00 PM - Cova Software for Cannabis Retail & Consumer Experience
    Presenter: James Manning, Cova Software
    
    Using retail data to elevate customer experience, while using data driven tools – reports & analytics to capture business health and understanding of market. Take a deep dive into the inner workings of Cova Software to drive more traffic and grow consumer market.

    
    

• Business Strategy, Operations & Compliance Track:

  • 1:15 PM - 2:00 PM - State of Minnesota Grants and Programs for Cannabis Businesses
    Presenters: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (Jason Burak, Office of Business Finance; Brandon Toner, Office of Small Business and Innovation; and Nathan Ratner, Government Relations)
    
    Representatives from the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) will provide insight on programs that can support Tribal and licensed cannabis businesses in Minnesota’s legal cannabis industry. The presenters will also share the development process for the CanStartup, CanNavigate, and CanTrain grant programs. DEED will conclude with a listening session to learn from and gain insight from attendees.

  • 2:15 PM - 3:00 PM - Blazing Trails: Legal Tips for Entrepreneurship in the Cannabis Industry - Sponsored by Hellmuth & Johnson
    Presenters: Carol Moss, Esq., Mary Ellen Reihsen, Esq., and Ailana McIntosh, Esq., Hellmuth & Johnson
    
    Turn your passion for the plant into entrepreneurial success with this panel of experienced lawyers. Learn about crucial legal considerations, tips for navigating entrepreneurship, strategies for protecting your business, and best practices for risk management. Whether you’re a startup or an established company, our panel has the insight you need to thrive in this wildly changing industry.

  • 3:15 PM - 4:00 PM - Strategies for Energy-Smart Cannabis Facilities
    Presenters: Kyle Shannon, Rick Lowry, and Eric Flower, Franklin Energy
    
    Join our panel of energy consultants from Franklin Energy, experts in Minnesota utilities’ new construction programs, as they guide new and prospective cannabis business owners through the process of creating energy-efficient facilities. This session will cover strategies for integrating high-efficiency equipment and taking full advantage of energy-saving opportunities, including rebates. Learn from experts about the benefits of sustainable design choices, including LED lighting, in both new constructions and renovations. Discover how these practices not only align with environmental goals but also offer significant cost savings, enhancing the long-term viability of your cannabis operation in Minnesota.
    
    

• Industrial Hemp Track:

  • 1:15 PM - 2:00 PM - Minnesota’s Hemp Program: Intro & Updates from MDA
    Presenter: Kathryn Mutschler, Hemp Program Coordinator, Minnesota Department of Agriculture
    
    Explore the essentials of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture's Hemp Program, including regulatory guidelines, licensing requirements, and support services for hemp cultivation and production in Minnesota.
    
    

  • 2:15 PM - 3:00 PM - Growing & Marketing Hemp Biomass
    Presenter: Renato Krsnik, Northern Diversified Solutions
    
    Delve into the cultivation and marketing of hemp biomass, focusing on essential processing steps, quality classifications, and strategic partnerships. Learn the prerequisites for successful hemp biomass production, including legal and quality standards, and discover market opportunities for growers.
    
    

  • 3:15 PM - 4:00 PM - Lower Sioux Industrial Hemp Construction
    Presenter: TBD
    
    Learn about the Lower Sioux Indian Community's innovative use of hempcrete in construction, a sustainable and carbon-negative material made from hemp, water, and lime. This session explores their journey in building homes with better insulation and lower energy costs, the challenges faced, including supply chain limitations, and the broader vision for sustainable housing and job creation. Learn about their success and plans for expansion, highlighting hempcrete's potential to revolutionize green construction.

4:10-4:50 PM - Mainstage Presentation

The Role of Local Governments in Cannabis Policy and Business
Presenter: Andy Pomroy, Senior Government Relations Specialist, Fredrikson & Byron

This session will explore the role that local governments play in shaping the cannabis industry at the municipal and county levels. Topics of discussion will include how local ordinances and regulations can influence cannabis businesses, the importance of local government in business planning, zoning for cannabis businesses, community engagement strategies, and creating local policies and programs that support economic opportunities while addressing community concerns. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by local governance in the cannabis market and strategies for effective advocacy and partnership.

4:50-5:00 PM - Closing

Final remarks and close of the conference.

5:00-6:00 PM - Happy Hour - Sponsored by Gigli