Networking Events Archives | Cannabis Means Business

May 16, 2025May 17, 2025 By CMB Global

Why Cannabis is a Brutal Business — And Why Networking is Your Secret Weapon

Why Cannabis is a Brutal Business — And Why Networking is Your Secret Weapon

by KymB

Alright, let’s get real — the cannabis industry isn’t just hard, it’s a full-contact sport. Everyone’s fighting for shelf space, licenses, and loyal customers. Margins are tight, regulations are a nightmare, and let’s face it — making a profit in this green game can feel like you’re rolling a joint in a hurricane.

So how do you survive? Better yet, how do you thrive? Simple: You network like a boss. And there’s no better place to rub elbows with the right people than at the Cannabis Means Business (CMB formerly CWCBExpo) Conference at NYC’s Jacob Javits Center June 4-5th, 2025.

Why CMB? Because Playing It Smart Pays Off

CMB offers a smart East Coast investment packed with industry power players who can take your business to the next level.

The Parties & Networking That Make CMB Legendary

Sure, you’re there to learn, but let’s be honest — the real deals happen when you’re out of your blazer, vibing with your fellow cannabis bosses. That’s where the CMB YOTEL Rooftop Pregame and Yacht Party come in — and trust me, you don’t want to miss either.

The YOTEL Rooftop Pregame — Before the conference even kicks off, the party’s already lit. The all-inclusive rooftop bash at YOTEL in Midtown is packed with amazing food, cocktails, and a sweet sesh area where you can relax and connect with like-minded industry pros. It’s casual yet upscale — the perfect way to make key contacts before you even hit the expo floor.

The Yacht Party — Imagine this: You’re cruising around NYC, skyline views, in an industry friendly setting, dinner, and drinks, chatting up potential investors, retail buyers, and industry heavyweights. It’s an all-inclusive, white-napkin sit-down dinner experience, just with gourmet food, premium drinks, and a whole lot of power (and flower 🙂 while networking on the water. Deals get done on this boat PERIOD.

Why Networking at CMB is a Must Attend Event

In cannabis, who you know is everything. You can have the dankest product on the planet, but if you’re not connecting with the right distributors, investors, or retail buyers — you’re just another lonely nug in the grinder.

The CMB Conference is where those connections happen. Whether you’re swapping business cards on a yacht, sparking a joint in the rooftop sesh zone, or pitching your product at the expo — this is where you meet the people who can help your business blow up.

The Super Saver Pass: Your VIP Ticket to Cannabis Success

Wanna get the best bang for your bud? Grab the Super Saver Pass, which gets you:

✅ Full access to the CMB Conference — expos, seminars, and expert panels packed with insider info.

✅ Entry to the YOTEL Rooftop Pregame — eat, drink, sesh, and network with ease.

✅ A coveted spot at the legendary CMB Yacht Party — network while cruising around Manhattan in true VIP style.

That’s right — one pass, all the parties, all the connections, and a front-row seat to the future of cannabis.

**Don’t miss out. The Super Saver Pass is your ticket to making 2025 the year your cannabis business hits the jackpot.**

So what’s it gonna be? Are you ready to shake hands, make deals, and lock in partnerships that elevate your game? Or are you just gonna sit back and hope your Instagram and LinkedIn posts turn into sales?

Get your Super Saver Pass now — or risk watching the green rush pass you by.

See you in NYC!

Thank You & Stay Lit,

Sincerely

KymB
Co-founder, TribeTokes

May 8, 2025May 11, 2025 By CMB Global

Speakers, Panels and Networking Opportunities Announced for CMB in New York

Speakers, Panels and Networking Opportunities Announced for Cannabis Means Business in New York

Cannabis Workforce Initiative Job Fair, Women in Cannabis Luncheon, and more at the premier cannabis industry trade show and conference, June 4-5 in NYC

(New York, New York, May 2025)—Cannabis Means Business (CMB), the industry’s premier business to business conference and expo, today shared new details on their schedule of panels and presentations, along with new programming, exhibitions and networking opportunities. Speakers have also been announced, including CNBC Fast Money trader Tim Seymour; Philip Wolf, a pioneer of the cannabis hospitality sector; and Dr. Chanda Macias, CEO of Women Grow.

Taking place June 4-5 2025 at the Javits Convention Center in New York City, the epicenter of commerce and innovation, the 11th annual CMB (formerly the CWCBExpo) will bring together thought leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers and advocates from across the rapidly growing cannabis sector. The conference will feature in-depth panel discussions, presentations and workshops that will shape the industry’s future both within New York and worldwide, with topics such as:

The Investment Renegades Changing the Face of Cannabis: Has cannabis funding turned from green to yellow?
Featuring Tim Seymour, Founder & CIO, Seymour Asset Management, and Co-Host, CNBC Fast Money; Will Muecke, Co-Founder and Managing Member of Artemis Growth Partners; Neil Managing Member, Kaufman McGowan PLLC; Steve Gelsi, MarketWatch reporter; Josephine Giordano, Senior Director, Financial Forensics and Business Valuation Services Group and Cannabis Tax & Advisory Group, BeachFleischman PLLC; Aida Sy, PhD. and Adam Rosenberg, President, Vlasic Bioscience.

Infusion from the Beverage Industry: How far has it come into cannabis, and where is it heading?
Featuring MarketWatch reporter Steve Gelsi, Art Massalo, VP Business Development Cycling Frog, and Cynthia Salarizadeh, co-founder of the cannabis infused beverage Herbacee, whose parent company recently merged with Death Row Records and Snoop Dogg to create Iconic Tonics.

Compliance & Best Practices: Breaking through to profit in uncertain times.
Featuring Jason Bartow, Executive Vice President, Bartow Insurance; Kelley Crosson, Horticulturist, Designer, Consultant; Holden Farahani, Co-Founder, CEO, Camaraderie Group; Ed Keating, Co-Founder, Cannabiz Media; and Nichelle Santos, Founder and CEO, CannaCoverage.

Additional panels throughout the two-day schedule will cover topics ranging from Hospitality & Cannabis Tourism; Real Estate & Cannabis Business Planning; Health & Wellness, among other subjects impacting businesses and consumers alike.

Three pre-event workshops will take place on June 3rd. These deep dive programs will cover important topics to scale your business: AI & Everything Cannabis for Your Business; Taking Your Cannabis Brand or Business Around the World –An International View of Building Your Opportunities; and Marketing & Communications for Brands & Retailers.

There will also be a range of networking opportunities, including but not limited to:

B2B Rooftop Bash with The NORML FORML (Tuesday, June 3) – Enjoy an open bar, food, and panoramic views of the city skyline. NORML is a nonprofit public-interest advocacy group that has since 1970 provided a voice in the public policy debate for those Americans who oppose marijuana prohibition and favor an end to the practice of arresting marijuana consumers.
Women’s Entrepreneur Luncheon (Thursday, June 5) – Connect with women leaders, entrepreneurs, and advocates shaping the future of the cannabis industry.
Cannabis Workforce Job Fair, Hosted by the Cannabis Workforce Initiative, whose mission is to promote and support social equity in the adult-use cannabis market by providing quality workforce development and legal education.
O2VAPE Industry Yacht Party (Wednesday, June 4) – A Hudson River cruise, dinner and DJ dance party sponsored by O2VAPE®, a USA Veteran-owned company and has been providing consumers with high-quality portable vaping products since 2014.

“New York’s rapidly growing cannabis market, combined with its unmatched consumer base and global reach, creates a unique opportunity for businesses to thrive—and makes it the perfect backdrop for our event,” said CMB CEO and Founder Christine Ianuzzi. “Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to be in the right room, surrounded by innovators, investors, and decision-makers— this is where the future of cannabis commerce is taking shape.”

Cannabis Means Business (CMB) is a new vision for the show previously run as CWCBExpo. This evolution marks a significant shift in the landscape of cannabis industry events and reflects the needs of today and the future of the industry. CMB will continue to offer an expansive exhibit floor and a diverse slate of industry-leading speakers, presenting insightful addresses, educational sessions and workshops designed to address the complexities of operating within the regional, national, and global cannabis marketplace.

For the latest scheduling updates, speaker information and to learn about attending, exhibiting and sponsorship opportunities at CMB–New York Global Edition, visit: www.cannabismeansbusiness.com.

Register Now to take advantage of pre-show pricing at the premier industry event https://cannabismeansbusiness.com/2025-registration/. For more information on exhibiting and sponsorship opportunities visit; https://cannabismeansbusiness.com/exhibiting-sponsoring/

About Cannabis Means Business (CMB)

Cannabis Means Business (CMB), formerly CWCBExpo, is the premier North American trade show and conference for professionals and companies who are serious about growth, innovation and building their business in cannabis. As champions of a responsible, ethical, sustainable and profitable cannabis ecosystem, CMB reflects the vibrancy and complexity of New York City—a global hub for business, innovation and the cannabis supply chain. Visit: www.cannabismeansbusiness.com

March 11, 2025May 17, 2025 By CWCBExpo

Blunt Truth: Why You NEED to Be at CMB NYC This June

Blunt Truth: Why You NEED to Be at CMB NYC This June

If you’re serious about making moves in the cannabis industry — or just trying to break in — skipping the CMB Conference (formerly CWCBE) in NYC this June 2025 is a rookie mistake. Period.

Whether you’re a seasoned OG, a brand builder, or a wide-eyed newcomer, this event is where the real players show up to connect, learn, and lock down serious opportunities. Don’t let your competition out-hustle you by showing up while you’re stuck scrolling LinkedIn for outdated tip

Here’s why you can’t afford to miss CMB in NYC—because sitting this one out means missing big opportunities.

Cannabis is Evolving Fast — Stay Ahead or Get Smoke

This industry isn’t just “growing” — it’s exploding. Science is advancing, laws are shifting, and consumer trends are moving faster than your buddy who swears he’s “just gonna take one hit.”

CMB is where you’ll hear the inside scoop on everything from federal legalization updates to the next wave of cannabis wellness trends. You’ll leave with insights that could unlock your next business move — or help you avoid a costly mistake.

If you want to stay relevant, this is the conference to watch. Don’t get left behind.

Network Like a Pro (or Just Pretend You’re One)

Cannabis is still a who-you-know industry — and the biggest players? They’ll be at CMB.

This is your shot to connect with investors, suppliers, and power players who can open doors for you. Deals get done at these events — sometimes over a conference table, sometimes over a “J” at an afterparty.

Pro Tip: Come prepared with your elevator pitch, a solid game plan, and a willingness to strike up conversations with strangers. You never know who’s about to become your next business partner, investor, or client.

Find the Next Big Thing — Before Everyone Else Does

From next gen grow tech to cutting-edge infused products, the CMB expo floor is like walking through the future of cannabis.

Want to know what’s trending in edibles? Curious about the latest in precision dosing or high-performance cultivation gear? This is where you’ll get your hands on the newest innovations before they hit the mainstream.

Pro Tip: Don’t just wander aimlessly. Hit the floor with purpose. Ask vendors about trends they’re seeing — they often know more than the keynote speakers!

Real Education, Zero Boring Panels

I’ve been to enough cannabis events to know that not all speakers bring the heat — but CMB consistently curates some of the most valuable, actionable, and no-BS sessions in the game.

Want to nail your marketing strategy in a highly regulated industry? Curious how cannabis tourism is about to explode? Ready to scale your business without getting crushed by compliance headaches? CMB’s lineup delivers.

Pro Tip: Don’t just sit there quietly — ask questions, introduce yourself to the panelists, and make yourself memorable. The best connections often happen after the session.

Rooftop Afterparty. Yacht Party. Enough Said.

Look, you’re not just there to sit in conference rooms all day. When the sessions wrap up, CMB turns into a full-blown vibe.

Picture this: After a day of learning and hustling, you’re on a rooftop at sunset, drink or fatty in hand, surrounded by cannabis pros who are just as serious (and maybe a little wild) as you are. Conversations flow, connections happen, and suddenly you’re making deals you couldn’t have locked down anywhere else.

If you’re ready to experience luxury, set sail in true NYC style at our exclusive yacht party. Because nothing says “I’m serious about my business” like networking with industry leaders while sailing past the Statue of Liberty.

Pro Tip: Pack something nice — you’ll want to look sharp when you’re rubbing elbows with major players on the yacht deck.

No Excuses — Lock in Your Spot NOW

The cannabis industry isn’t waiting for you to catch up. Whether you’re building a brand, investing in growth, or launching a new product, CMB NYC is where you need to be this June.

✅ Buy your ticket

✅ Plan your game face

✅ Show up ready to network, learn, and make some serious moves

I’ll be there — and I plan to leave with new connections, fresh ideas, and maybe a little bit of a high hangover.

Don’t sleep on this. See you in NYC.

Sincerely

KymB
Co-founder, TribeTokes

Join Us at Cannabis Means Business

The Cannabis Means Business Conference – NY Global Edition is more than an event—it’s a gateway to the future of the cannabis industry. By exhibiting, you’ll connect with a diverse audience, build strategic partnerships, and solidify your brand’s position in this transformative market.

Why New York, why now? Because NYC is where the cannabis industry intersects with the world’s leading sectors, and its influence is reshaping the market today.

Secure your spot now and be part of the premier event that’s defining the future of cannabis in North America and beyond. Let Cannabis Means Business put your brand at the center of the conversation.

May 30, 2024October 30, 2024 By CWCBExpo

Rescheduling, Fireside Chats, Market Trends, Pavilions, Networking Events

Rescheduling, Fireside Chats, Market Trends,
Pavilions, Networking Events

CWCBExpo New York –
Here We Come

“Rescheduling cannabis to Schedule III would be a game-changer for New York’s newly legal adult-use market…Ultimately, it will accelerate the already strong pace of growth we are currently seeing in New York’s legal cannabis market.”

– Cy Scott, Co-Founder & CEO, Headset

Don’t miss the Industry Update by Cy Scott, “Trends, Challenges and Opportunities – Why New York is the Market to Watch in the Midst of Rescheduling” on Wednesday, June 5, 2024.

Federal Rescheduling

While not the ideal designation the industry wants, May was all lit up with news of rescheduling cannabis from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule III drug. More needs to be done, such as completely descheduling cannabis.

A public comment period is underway after the Justice Department published the proposed rescheduling rule. The public comment period runs through July 22, 2024, and comments can be submitted electronically through their portal. Now is the time to add your comments.

Find out how to access the public comments portal from NORML.org

The CWCBExpo Conference Program will Address Rescheduling

The latest news and impact of rescheduling cannabis will be energetically discussed in our workshops, conference seminars, networking events, and on the show floor. A few of the exciting conference highlights are:

Market Trends & Opportunities with Cy Scott, Co-Founder & CEO Headset
Fireside Chat featuring Chair Wright of the Cannabis Control Board, with Kristin Jordan, Esq., Founder & CEO, Park Jordan
Fireside Chat & Keynote featuring Josh Kesselman, Founder & CEO, HBI International/RAW Rolling Papers, with Tim Seymour Portfolio Manager, CNBS Cannabis ETF; Co-Host, CNBC Fast Money
Where is Wall Street?
Behind the Headlines: Meet the Cannabis Press and Editors
Business & Culture at a Crossroads: Cannabis & Psychedelics
The Politics & Medicine of Cannabis: A Multi-state Approach
Cannabis Retail Marketing in the Digital Era
High Tech: How Technology Can Drive Your Business
Transactions and Services to Expand Your Cannabis Business
Journey to Legitimacy: The OGs and OQs of Cannabis

NYS Licensing News

Changes in the NYS Office of Cannabis Management and Cannabis Control Board

A lot has happened regarding the NYS Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) and the Cannabis Control Board (CCB). As May unfolded, we learned of the impending departure of Chris Alexander, Executive Director of the OCM, effective June 7, 2024.

In addition, NYS Governor Kathy Hochul mandated several significant operational changes to the OCM for the short and long-term. The changes came on the heels of the final report that Jeanette Moy, Commissioner of the Office of General Services, issued after her 30-day research mission of the OCM.

The operational changes will have an impact on several aspects of what the OCM manages including:

A new task force to deal with illicit cannabis activity
Licensing procedures
Capital for justice-involved CAURD licensees

Learn more about what Governor Hochul announced and about the operational changes and new task force from the Finger Lakes Daily News.

New Jersey News

New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission

Governor Phil Murphy also instituted some major changes at the the NJ Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) in May. Executive Director Jeff Brown is transitioning to a new position at the NJ Department of Health (DOH) where he will be the new deputy commissioner. His replacement at the CRC will be Christopher Riggs, who previously held the role of deputy executive director and was formerly chief counsel of the CRC.

Read more from Cannabis Risk Manager.

Get the CWCBExpo Run Down from Christine Ianuzzi

In this conversation with KymB, Christine Ianuzzi, Founder and CEO of CWCBExpo, shares her insights on rescheduling and gives a rundown of what’s happening at next week’s 10th Annual CWCBExpo, including the many exciting happenings there that you won’t want to miss.

“This is the year that CWCBExpo celebrates the community, the industry, our clients, and all the newcomers who’ll be joining in – the industry is about to grow again.” – Christine Ianuzzi

In addition to the full conference program, CWCBExpo offers pre-show workshops, a dynamic exhibit floor, and legendary networking events.

Two Pre-Show Workshops:

Dispensary Ownership & Operations Bootcamp

Deep dive into seed-to-sale discussions including licensing, site selection, real estate, regulations, advertising, design, staffing, security, delivery, compliance, taxation, and product knowledge.

Separate Ticket Required, includes coffee and lunch

Cultivation: Licensing, Technology and Operation

Explore regulations, licenses, funding, challenges, technology, ROI, facility design, security, humidity, lighting, strains, and artificial intelligence.

Separate Ticket Required, includes coffee and light snack

Dynamic Exhibit Floor:

Discover the CWCBExpo exhibit floor. Meet great exhibitors, showcasing cutting-edge products, services, and innovations. Don’t miss the specialized pavilions:

Women’s Pavilion: Meet new female entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry.
Cannifest Seed Pavilion: Explore the latest in seed innovation and genetics.
New York Small Farma Pavilion: Meet and learn from local small-scale cannabis farmers.
New York Cannabis Workforce Pavilion Job Fair: Discover career opportunities and workforce development in the cannabis sector.
Governmental Area: Get your questions answered from Cannabis NYC, NYS Office of Cannabis Management, NJ Business Action Center and other agencies

Networking Events:

B2B Rooftop Bash with the NORML FORML at the Yotel (separate ticket required)
At the Yotel Rooftop, 570 Tenth Avenue at West 42nd Street

Enjoy an open bar, appetizers, and drinks while networking with industry professionals. Support NORML’s mission and participate in NORMAL’s gift basket give-away.

Yacht Party (separate ticket required)
Enjoy the stunning sunset and New York City skyline with an open bar delicious dinner, dessert, music, dancing and ample networking opportunities. Don’t miss this chance to connect and celebrate in style.

Women in Cannabis Business Luncheon (separate ticket required)
Sponsored by Proteus420
Located on the show floor.

Enjoy a networking lunch featuring opening remarks by Kymberly Byrnes, a fireside chat with Dawne Morris, and a panel discussion “Entrepreneurship While Female: Motivated, Intelligent, and Successful.” Connect with inspiring women leaders and gain valuable insights into the cannabis industry.

THIS MONTH’S ARCHIVED VIDEO

“The Future of Cannabis Tourism in the Big Apple and Beyond”

Presented on June 1, 2023, at CWCBExpo, Jacob Javits Convention Center, New York City.

As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, opportunities emerge to engage with an international audience interested in the plant’s history, lifestyle, and culture. Increasingly, conversations around cannabis tourism are moving from consumption opportunities to education and exploring the plant’s social impact or place in history and pop culture. While adult-use legalization continues to move like wildfire through state-side tourist meccas like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and New York City, what opportunities exist for entrepreneurs who recognize the plant as a potential draw for tourism dollars?

This session was moderated by Will Yakowicz, Staff Writer, Forbes; with Precious Hester Brown, Founder, CEO, Entertaining & Elevating With Cannabis; Ariel Palitz, Founding Director, NYC Mayors Office of Nightlife; and “Hawaii” Mike, Founder, Chef for Higher

(pictured from the left) Precious Hester Brown, Ariel Palitz, “Hawaii” Mike, and Will Yakowicz

To watch the full video session, click here.

The CWCBExpo BLOG: Timely News & In Depth Articles

CWCBExpo blogs contain relevant, timely information. Recent subjects include cannabis rescheduling and other legalization and regulatory updates.

Visit the CWCBExpo blog for valuable guides and posts.

Cannabis Means Business – Conference & Expo
June 4 - 5, 2025

Javits Convention Center
New York City

Why Cannabis is a Brutal Business — And Why Networking is Your Secret Weapon

Speakers, Panels and Networking Opportunities Announced for CMB in New York