MJBizCon 2024: Where Cannabis Business and Networking Meet Under the Vegas Lights
It’s that time of the year and all eyes are on the 13th Annual MJBizCon, taking place from December 3-6, 2024, in Las Vegas, NV. This premier event draws entrepreneurs, investors, advocates, and professionals from across the globe to network, learn, and collaborate on the future of cannabis. With a lineup of high-impact forums, an expansive exhibit hall, and exclusive networking opportunities, MJBizCon remains the largest cannabis business event of its kind.
The pre-show forums kick off on December 3, featuring deep-dive sessions focused on investment, branding, and cultivation. These forums set the tone for the main conference and provide attendees with a comprehensive view of the latest industry trends. Notable forums include the Cannabis Business Crash Course for entrepreneurs looking to break into the market and the Science Symposium for those focused on the technical aspects of cultivation, extraction, and product development. Each forum offers unique insights for attendees, whether they are startups or seasoned veterans in the industry.
The exhibit hall, opening on December 4, promises to be a massive showcase of over 1,400 exhibitors representing every corner of the cannabis industry. From state-of-the-art growing equipment to groundbreaking health and wellness products, the exhibit hall is a hub of innovation and business opportunities. Leading companies such as Canopy Growth, Curaleaf, and Dutchie will have booths, offering attendees a chance to connect directly with industry leaders. Exhibitors will be hosting live product demonstrations, special promotions, and one-on-one consultations, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the latest technology and trends.
Networking events are a hallmark of MJBizCon, with the Cannabis Executive Networking Luncheon and Women in Cannabis Reception among the most anticipated. These events offer unparalleled opportunities for attendees to build relationships with peers, investors, and industry titans. In addition, the daily conference sessions will feature over 200 speakers, including keynote addresses from major players like Carmelo Anthony of STAYME70, Joe Hodas of Wana Brands, and Emily Paxhia of Poseidon Asset Management. Panel discussions will dive into topics such as national cannabis policy reform, emerging markets, and the rise of sustainable cultivation practices.
Of course, MJBizCon wouldn’t be complete without its legendary after-parties. As the sun sets over the Las Vegas Strip, the excitement continues with a series of exclusive events that bring together cannabis professionals in a more relaxed setting. Attendees can expect industry-sponsored parties at venues like Hakkasan and Omnia Nightclub, where business discussions turn into celebrations. With live music, celebrity appearances, and gourmet catering, these events are designed to leave a lasting impression on all who attend.
MJBizCon 2024 is shaping up to be the cannabis event of the year, offering a perfect blend of education, networking, and entertainment. Whether you’re looking to launch a new business, expand your network, or just immerse yourself in the ever-evolving cannabis world, there’s no better place to be this December than Las Vegas.
Building Delaware’s Recreational Cannabis Industry: Licensing, Sales, and Regulatory Oversight
Delaware’s recreational cannabis market is on the verge of a significant transformation, with the state poised to begin issuing licenses and rolling out sales to consumers in 2024. After years of advocacy and legislative efforts, the state officially legalized recreational cannabis in April 2023 with the passage of House Bill 1 and House Bill 2, which laid the groundwork for both legal possession and the creation of a regulated cannabis market. Adults over 21 are now allowed to possess up to one ounce of cannabis, marking a major shift in Delaware’s drug policy. However, the true potential of the market will only be realized once sales to consumers officially begin.
Central to the rollout of Delaware’s recreational cannabis industry is the Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (OMC), established to oversee the licensing process, market regulation, and compliance with state laws. The OMC is tasked with ensuring a smooth and orderly launch of the cannabis industry while prioritizing safety, fairness, and equity. One of its key responsibilities is managing the application process for cannabis business licenses, including those for cultivators, manufacturers, and retailers. Initial license issuing was predicted toward the end of 2024, with a strong emphasis on creating opportunities for small businesses and ensuring diversity among license holders, however it’s expected now to be in early 2025 with retail sales soon after.
As Delaware’s market takes shape, the OMC is also charged with enforcing regulations to maintain high standards for product quality and consumer safety. This includes implementing seed-to-sale tracking systems, conducting inspections, and ensuring that products meet strict health and safety standards. The office will work closely with law enforcement and public health agencies to minimize potential risks, such as underage access and impaired driving. Furthermore, the OMC is committed to promoting social equity by giving priority to applicants from communities disproportionately affected by cannabis prohibition through its Social Equity Program.
Looking ahead, Delaware’s cannabis market is expected to be a small but competitive one, with projections suggesting a strong demand for products once sales begin. The state’s relatively high population density and proximity to neighboring states that have also legalized cannabis—like New Jersey and Maryland—could attract a robust consumer base. However, challenges remain, including balancing supply and demand, avoiding over-saturation, and addressing concerns from opponents of legalization, particularly around public health and safety.
Delaware’s cannabis industry is still in its infancy, but the steps being taken now by the Office of the Marijuana Commissioner will be crucial in determining its success. By focusing on equity, safety, and regulatory compliance, the state aims to create a sustainable market that benefits consumers, businesses, and the broader community. As licensing begins in 2024 and sales follow shortly after, Delaware’s approach will likely serve as a model for other states considering the legalization of recreational cannabis.
Eaze to Close by 2024: How Taxes and Regulations Crippled a Cannabis Pioneer
Eaze Technologies Inc., once hailed as the “Uber of Weed,” has officially announced its plans to reduce operations and cease business by the end of 2024. This news comes as a shock to many, considering Eaze was once one of the most prominent cannabis delivery platforms in California, helping to shape the state’s legal cannabis market. However, the company faced an array of challenges that contributed to its downfall, highlighting the difficulties that cannabis businesses encounter, especially in a state as complex as California.
Founded in 2014, Eaze grew rapidly, offering a convenient platform that connected consumers with local dispensaries and delivering cannabis products directly to their doors. At its peak, Eaze raised over $250 million in funding, capitalizing on the growing demand for cannabis delivery services. However, several hurdles began to weigh heavily on the company’s ability to sustain itself in the highly competitive and highly regulated cannabis market.
One of the primary challenges Eaze faced was the heavy taxation imposed on cannabis businesses in California. With local, state, and excise taxes often exceeding 35%, cannabis companies found it difficult to remain profitable while offering competitive prices to consumers. This put immense pressure on Eaze to cut costs and increase revenue, but the constant financial strain proved too much.
In addition to taxes, Eaze grappled with regulatory complexities. California’s cannabis laws are notoriously stringent, with frequent changes in regulations that make compliance difficult and costly. The company had to navigate shifting licensing requirements and local ordinances, adding layers of operational difficulty.
The saturation of the cannabis delivery market further exacerbated Eaze’s struggles. As more companies entered the space, competition became fierce, and Eaze’s early mover advantage dwindled. To complicate matters, the illicit market continued to thrive, offering cheaper alternatives to consumers who were unwilling or unable to pay the higher costs of legal products.
Ultimately, these challenges were too much for Eaze to overcome. As the company winds down operations, its closure serves as a reminder of the tough road cannabis businesses face, even in one of the most cannabis-friendly states in the U.S.