Press Archives | Cannabis Means Business

January 17, 2025February 14, 2025 By CMB Global

Cannabis Means Business Opens Registration

Cannabis Means Business (CMB), New York Global Edition, Opens Registration

Experience the Premier Trade Show & Conference, June 4-5, For Cannabis Industry Professionals

(New York, New York, January 2025))—Cannabis Means Business (CMB), the premier business to business conference and expo, announces that registration is now open for its highly anticipated 2025 event. Taking place June 4-5, 2025 at the Javits Convention Center In New York City, the epicenter of commerce and innovation, CMB will bring together thought leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts from across the rapidly growing cannabis sector.

Now in its 11^th year, CMB (formerly CWCBExpo) is renowned for providing an unparalleled platform for networking, education, and business development. With an expansive exhibit floor and a diverse slate of industry-leading speakers, CMB attendees can expect an array of educational sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities designed to address the complexities of operating within the regional, national, and global cannabis marketplace.

What to Expect at CMB 2025:

- Expert-Led Panels & Sessions: providing insights from industry leaders covering critical topics like market trends, investment strategies, global opportunities, regulatory frameworks and innovative business models that are shaping the industry.
- Product Showcases: featuring the latest products, services, and technologies driving the cannabis industry forward.
- Workshops and Trainings: practical sessions designed to provide actionable knowledge and skills for business success in the cannabis sector.
- Networking Opportunities: including exhibit floor activations, mixers, and after hours events.

Featured keynote speakers and panelists will include top industry figures, government representatives, and thought leaders who will discuss the most pressing issues shaping the future of cannabis business.

“As the cannabis industry continues to grow and evolve, CMB remains at the forefront of shaping its business landscape,” said Christine Ianuzzi, CEO of CMB. “Our mission is to provide a vibrant space for industry professionals to connect, learn, and discover the tools they need to succeed in this dynamic market. This year’s event promises to deliver even more value with a carefully curated lineup of speakers, exhibitors, and innovative content.”

Who Should Attend:

- Cannabis Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
- Dispensary and Retail Operators
- Investors and Venture Capitalists
- Manufacturers, Cultivators, and Suppliers
- Legal, Compliance, and Regulatory Professionals
- Industry Influencers and Advocates

Register Now to take advantage of early bird rates at this premier industry event here: https://cannabismeansbusiness.com/2025-registration/. There is still time to submit a speaker application and be a part of the prestigious CMB conference program: https://cannabismeansbusiness.com/speaker-application/. 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

October 30, 2024February 14, 2025 By CWCBExpo

Cannabis Means Business, a Bold New Vision for CWCBExpo

The Leading New York Cannabis Trade Show & Conferences Launches an Exciting New Vision and Rebrand Reflecting the New Directions for Advancing the Vast Cannabis Industry

(New York, New York, October 2024) Cannabis Means Business (CMB) is a new vision for the show previously run as CWCBExpo. This evolution is a significant shift in the landscape of cannabis industry events and reflects the needs of today and the future of the industry. Taking place June 4-5, 2025 at the Javits Center in New York, this transformation to CMB reflects a growing recognition of the cannabis sector’s evolution and its increasing relevance in business discussions across a multitude of industries and around the world.

CMB–New York Global Edition will serve as a dynamic platform that encompasses an impactful range of topics, emphasizing the integration of cannabis into mainstream business practices. The event will foster an environment where industry professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers and key stakeholders can engage in meaningful dialogue about the future of cannabis and New York’s growing influence as a global hub.

“The entire global cannabis supply chain is looking at the Northeast United States, and especially New York, for the latest business opportunities and cannabis innovations. More than 10 years ago, CWCBExpo was a pioneer in championing the New York market when it started the first annual cannabis business trade show at the Javits Center. This transformation into Cannabis Means Business (CMB) underscores the importance of this key market, marked by growing consumer demand, an inclusive regulatory framework, international access, and the potential for incredible growth,” said Christine Ianuzzi, CEO of CMB. “New York is quickly becoming not only a sales epicenter but is also taking the mantle of a hub of commerce and insight at the national and international level.”

With this evolution, CMB attendees can expect a greater array of educational sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities designed to address the complexities of operating within the regional, national, and global cannabis marketplace. Topics will include market trends, investment strategies, global opportunities, regulatory frameworks and innovative business models that are shaping the industry.

The Cannabis Means Business conference will highlight successful case studies and best practices from both cannabis-specific companies and traditional businesses that have integrated cannabis into their ecosystem. This approach will provide valuable insights for those looking to navigate the evolving landscape and market dynamics.

“As the cannabis industry continues to grow and evolve, the transition from CWCBExpo New York to Cannabis Means Business–New York Global Edition reflects our commitment to advancing the conversation around the global cannabis supply chain. This focus aims to empower and equip attendees with the tools, resources, and knowledge necessary to thrive in an increasingly competitive and international market,” said Jennifer Hoff, President of Taffy Event Strategies.

The tranformation to Cannabis Means Business will continue to attract the decision making audience that gets business done, including those from adjacent industries who are exploring opportunities within the cannabis space. CMB will also continue to incorporate and empower the multi-faceted nature of the cannabis industry.

For more information and to learn about exhibiting and sponsorship opportunities at CMB–New York Global Edition, visit: www.cannabismeansbusiness.com.

About Cannabis Means Business (CMB)

May 30, 2024October 30, 2024 By CWCBExpo

10th Annual CWCBExpo Returns with Expanded Experiences, Education, Networking

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Press Release – May 30 2024

June 5 – 6, 2024, New York City, Javits Convention Center

10th Annual CWCBExpo Returns to New York, June 5 & 6 with Expanded Show Experiences, Education, and Networking Opportunities

Updates on Rescheduling Part of the Agenda & New Partnership with Cannabis Workforce Initiative

(New York, NY, May 2024)—The leading East Coast cannabis conference and trade show, CWCBExpo, returns to the Javits Convention Center, June 5-6, 2024 with immersive exhibit floor experiences, top education as well as plenty of business building opportunities and after parties. This year CWCBExpo has partnered with the New York Cannabis Workforce Initiative (CWI) offering attendees a unique opportunity to connect with leading employers in the rapidly growing cannabis industry in the New York Cannabis Workforce Pavilion.

“CWI is proud to partner with CWCBExpo to showcase our workforce development and legal educational programs as well as platform colleges that have cannabis curriculums. There is no better forum for CWI to promote our services that prioritizes diversity, equity, quality jobs and career paths in this emerging cannabis industry.” said David Serrano, Project Manager, Cannabis Workforce Initiative. “We also look forward to hosting a Job Fair at CWCBExpo for anyone interested in employment and career paths.”

CWCBExpo New York will also offer expanded educational opportunities including two pre-show in-depth workshops on Dispensary Ownership & Operations Bootcamp and Cultivation: Licensing, Technology & Operation led by subject matter experts, Sara Gullickson, Founder & CEO, Cannabis Business Advisors; and David Fettner, Co-Founder, Grow America, LLC, respectively.

There are also a diverse range of curated sessions taking place on Wednesday and Thursday that will feature speakers with unique expertise, all aimed at providing the essential knowledge and insights to elevate and grow businesses as well as provide updated rescheduling insight. Topics include an Industry Update: “Trends, Challenges and Opportunities – Why New York is the Market to Watch in the Midst of Rescheduling;” by Cy Scott of Headset; a Fireside Chat with Tremaine Wright, Chair, New York State Cannabis Control Board; “Cannabis Retail Marketing in the Digital Age;” “High Tech: How Technology Can Drive Your Business;” and “The Journey to Legitimacy: The OGs and OQs of Cannabis.”

Additional special features include a Fireside Chat with Industry Icon, Josh Kesselman, Founder and CEO of HBI International/RAW Rolling Papers and a Women in Cannabis Luncheon that includes a Fireside Chat with Dawne Morris, Founder, CEO, Proteus420 and a panel on “Entrepreneurship While Female: Motivated, Intelligent. And Successful.”

A hallmark of the CWCBExpo New York events are the ample business-building opportunities including the B2B Bash Rooftop Party and Norml Forml on June 4th, the Industry Yacht Party on June 5th, NYCRA’s After Party on June 6th and Cannabis Week events and promotions that bring the industry together.

“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,” said Christine Ianuzzi, CEO, CWCBExpo.

CWCBExpo New York will also have a dynamic expo floor with the most innovative product, service and technology companies showcasing their solutions for the entire cannabis ecosystem. Sponsors of CWCBExpo include Green Life Business Group Inc. (Show Bag); DisplayDispensary.com (Lanyard); Proteus420 (Women in Cannabis Luncheon and Women’s Pavilion Supporting Sponsor); and ATMOSIScience (Women’s Pavilion Supporting Sponsor).

“For 10 years, CWCBExpo’s mission has been to provide those involved in the business of cannabis with essential resources and information for their success. This event is uniquely crafted to foster professional growth, provide top-notch education as well as cutting-edge products, services and show experiences and our show in June will be no exception,” said Mary Bender, Show Director, CWCBExpo.

Registration is open for CWCBExpo New York. To register go to: https://cwcbexpo/registration_ny/

For more information on sponsoring or exhibiting contact: cwcbe@cannabismeansbusiness.com or call 201-580-2050.

About Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo)

CWCBExpo is an established business-to-business trade show event for the legalized cannabis and hemp industry. It is held in New York City, the largest business, financial, and media market, and is the leading forum for dispensary owners, growers, suppliers, investors, medical professionals, government regulators, legal counsel, and entrepreneurs looking to achieve business success and identify new areas of growth in this dynamic and fast- growing industry.

Visit: www.cannabismeansbusiness.com.

Editor’s Note: Qualified members of the media are invited to register as press for CWCBExpo New York. To request a media pass for CWCBExpo New York, please contact Annie Scully at: press@cannabismeansbusiness.com

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January 17, 2024October 30, 2024 By CWCBExpo

Taffy Event Strategies Joins Forces with Leading Edge Expositions on CWCBExpo

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Press Release – January 17, 2024

June 5 – 6, 2024, New York City, Javits Convention Center

Taffy Event Strategies Joins Forces with Leading Edge Expositions on CWCBExpo, a Premier Cannabis Business Event

New Partnership Expands the Reach and Influence of 10th Annual New York Trade Show and Conference Focused on the Growth of the Cannabis Industry

(New York, NY, January 2024)—Taffy Event Strategies has joined forces with Leading Edge Expositions to produce CWCBExpo, the premier East Coast cannabis business event. The 10th Annual CWCBExpo (Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition) will take place June 5-6, 2024 at the Javits Convention Center in New York City. Taffy Event Strategies is a full service trade show and event management company and provided sales support to CWCBExpo in 2023.

In this milestone year for CWCBExpo, the New York legal cannabis market is poised to be one of the largest in the world; expecting to generate hundreds of millions in revenue annually. According to New York Governor Katherine Hochul, the cannabis market will also create and sustain thousands of jobs across the state, all while prioritizing equity, promoting small business growth, ensuring product quality, and maintaining consumer safety.

Plans are underway for the biggest and most immersive CWCBExpo New York in June. Highlights will include an energetic exhibit floor; a relevant conference program with expert speakers in in finance, start-ups, investing, science and technology; and non- stop networking opportunities. Debuting alongside the Women’s Pavilion that features established sponsors and businesses that employ, support and mentor women to become executives, will be a “Women in Cannabis” Luncheon with presentations from industry pioneers and trailblazers.

“Leading Edge Expositions planted a flag in the cannabis industry by having the first cannabis business trade at the Javits Center In New York, long before the state had legalized adult use. We are thrilled to have Taffy Event Strategies navigate and lead us through the next phase of producing CWCBExpo events in this dynamic industry that continues to evolve and grow. It was a successful endeavor having Taffy Events support our sales effort in 2023 and we are looking forward to combining our resources and expertise to produce even more fruitful and engaging events for the industry and our stakeholders,” said Christine Ianuzzi, CEO of CWCBExpo, Leading Edge Expositions.

Taffy Event Strategies, a female led company, has a proven track record of helping its long-term clients produce industry leading events that are relevant and valuable for the markets and communities they serve.

Under this new long-term partnership, Mary Bender will serve as CWCBExpo Show Director. She has extensive trade show and sales experience and has held leadership positions in diverse industry events. Bender is currently Secretary/Treasurer of IAEE (International Association of Exhibitions Executive) Board of Directors. Christine Ianuzzi, of Leading Edge Expositions, will remain as CEO.

“New York and the East Coast clearly hold the most growth and opportunity for the cannabis industry and we’re very proud to partner with and support the leading show in this fertile region. Serendipitously like CWCBExpo, Taffy Events is also celebrating its 10th anniversary and this partnership is a great way to bolster both of our businesses,” said Jennifer Hoff, CEO of Taffy Event Strategies. “At Taffy Events we are more than just show managers and become active members of the communities we serve. We look forward to growing and flourishing the phenomenal relationships that Christine Ianuzzi and her team have already built at CWCBExpo,” she added.

Registration is now open for CWCBExpo New York. To register and secure the best pre-show pricing go to: https://cwcbexpo/registration_ny/

For more information on sponsoring or exhibiting contact: cwcbe@cannabismeansbusiness.com or call 201-580-2050.

Editor’s Note: Qualified members of the media are invited to register as press for CWCBExpo New York, email: press@cannabismeansbusiness.com

About Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo)

CWCBExpo, produced by LEExpos, is an established business-to-business trade show event for the legalized cannabis and hemp industry. It is held in New York City, the largest business, financial, and media market, and is the leading forum for dispensary owners, growers, suppliers, investors, medical professionals, government regulators, legal counsel, and entrepreneurs looking to achieve business success and identify new areas of growth in this dynamic and fast- growing industry.

Visit: www.cannabismeansbusiness.com.

About Taffy Event Strategies

Taffy Event Strategies is a full-service trade show and management company comprised of forward-thinking experts who live for producing events that are seamless, vibrant and innovative. Taffy Events blends proven strategies with fresh ideas and technologies to shape events into experiences that inspire audiences, create business connections and deliver results. Together, the Taffy Events team has spent decades selling, marketing and managing conferences and trade shows across multiple industries.

Visit: www.taffyeventstrategies.com.

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May 22, 2023October 17, 2024 By mpvaccaro

Dasheeda Dawson, NYC’s Cannabis Czar to Keynote at CWCBExpo

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Press Release – May 22, 2023

June 1 - 3, 2023, New York City, Javits Convention Center

Dasheeda Dawson, NYC’s Cannabis Czar to Keynote at 9th Annual CWCBExpo in New York, June 1-3, 2023

Leading East Coast Trade Show & Conference Highlights Business Opportunities & Features Project Clean Slate, an Expungement Clinic

(Paramus, NJ, May 2023)—NYC’s “Cannabis Czar” Dasheeda Dawson, Founding Director of Cannabis NYC, will deliver a Keynote at CWCBExpo on Thursday, June 1^st at 10:15 am. Dawson was appointed Founding Director of Cannabis NYC by Mayor Eric Adams in October 2022, and she oversees the interagency creation and curation of citywide resources and services to help build an equitable and sustainable cannabis industry, including helping entrepreneurs to apply for licenses, access financing opportunities, and navigate municipal regulations. CWCBExpo New York, June 1-3, is the longest running cannabis event at the Javits Center and in New York City, and has become the premier B2B trade show and conference on the East Coast.

During Dawson’s keynote, attendees will be able to hear first-hand about the support that the NYC Department of Small Business Services, through Cannabis NYC, is providing to help the legalized cannabis industry flourish including public education, capital investment, certification programs and first-of-its-kind business solutions for aspiring cannabis entrepreneurs.

“CWCBExpo is an exciting opportunity to talk directly to the community about what’s next for the City’s burgeoning legal cannabis industry,” said Dasheeda Dawson. “This partnership will shine a spotlight on the citywide resources and services available to all New Yorkers interested in cannabis, particularly for those disproportionately impacted by previous prohibition and criminalization.”

“Bringing our Lift Off! Cannabis NYC tour to this year’s CWCBExpo doesn’t just represent new business opportunities, but it further amplifies our ongoing mission to provide equitable access and restorative justice in every sector of the developing industry. I’m looking forward to the work we can do together now and in the future,” Dawson added.

With the legalized cannabis market in New York and the tri-state area on track to be a multi-billion dollar industry, CWCBExpo will provide unmatched insight and education on this multi-layered business sector. More highlights include:

– Interactive panel sessions exploring all angles of the business including: Social Equity: Entrepreneurs, Change Makers, and Heroes; Consumer Products: What are the most Popular and Hottest Products? and Technology to Maximize ROI for Grow Facilities From Seed to Processing.

– The New York State Office of Cannabis Management (NYS OCM) hosting a specialized seminar program designed exclusively for CWCBExpo attendees on Saturday, June 3^rd, and ends with a CAURD (Conditional Adult Use Dispensary) Q& A session.

– “Adult-Use Retail Dispensary Business Bootcamp: How to Execute Your Operational Plans for a Successful Launch and Business Operation,” moderated by Sara Gullickson, Founder, CEO, and Maxime Kot, President of Cannabis Business Advisors.

–The CannaVest East Institutional Capital Forum, running alongside CWCBExpo on June 1-2, which includes a talk with Tremaine Wright, Chair, New York State Cannabis Control Board.

– Specialty show floor areas such as the Women Pavilion spotlighting innovative products and services from emerging women-owned companies; University Row featuring leading academic cannabis curriculums; “LGBTQ+ Proud Mary Lounge” providing a safe and welcoming place to network, learn, and build a community of business and entrepreneurial interests and debuting this year Cannabis NYC, Veterans Rally Point, and Grower’s Field.

Project Clean Slate, the social justice program created by Minorities for Medical Marijuana (M4MM) is hosting a cannabis expungement clinic inside CWCBExpo on Saturday, June 3rd from 10:00 am until 3:00 pm. Free passes will be provided to those in need of expungement services with pre-registration required here: https://projectcleanslate.org/cwcbexpo-2023-pre-regis

“The criminalization of marijuana disproportionately impacted black and brown people,” said Roz McCarthy, M4MM Founder & CEO. “This is an opportunity to reduce some of the impact and damage individuals with these charges have faced.”

“The war on drugs has devastated our communities. Expungement is a way to help even out the field, and a way that we are helping to not only repair some of the harm but also restore people in our communities. They will no longer be barred from obtaining gainful employment, sufficient housing and if they choose, be able to participate in this now legal thriving cannabis industry.” said LaKisha Camese, Project Clean Slate Program Director.

A hallmark of the CWCBExpo New York events are the ample business-building opportunities including the Networking Mixer, Industry Yacht Party, and Cannabis Week fund raisers and gatherings including the NORML FORML. CWCBExpo New York will also have a dynamic expo floor on the expansive third level of the Javits Center (Hall 3A) with the most innovative product, service and technology companies showcasing their solutions for the entire cannabis ecosystem.

To register and secure the best pre-show pricing go to: https://cwcbexpo.wpengine.com/registration_ny/

For more information email: cwcbe@cannabismeansbusiness.com or call 201-580-2050.

About Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo)

CWCBExpo is a business-to-business trade show event for the legalized cannabis and hemp industry. It is held in the largest business, financial, and media markets. It is the leading forum for dispensary owners, growers, suppliers, investors, medical professionals, government regulators, legal counsel, and entrepreneurs looking to achieve business success and identify new areas of growth in this dynamic and fast-growing industry. Visit: www.cannabismeansbusiness.com.

Editor’s Note: Qualified members of the media are invited to register as press for CWCBExpo New York, email: press@cannabismeansbusiness.com

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November 1, 2021October 17, 2024 By CWCBExpo

Tremaine Wright to Deliver First Public Speech at CWCBExpo

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Press Release - November 1, 2021

November 4 - 6, 2021, New York City, Javits Convention Center

Tremaine Wright, Chair New York State Cannabis Control Board to Deliver First Public Speech at CWCBExpo New York

Lieutenant Governor Brian A. Benjamin Leads Opening “Ribbon Cutting”

to Acknowledge Getting Back to Business with CWCBExpo at Javits Center, Nov 4 – 6

(Paramus, NJ, November 2021)—CWCBExpo New York is pleased to announce that the recently appointed Chair of New York’s Cannabis Control Board, Tremaine Wright will make her first public presentation at CWCBExpo New York on Nov. 4th. Ms. Wright leads the five member oversight board charge with approving a comprehensive regulatory framework for New York’s cannabis industry and will oversee licensing of cannabis businesses.

On behalf of New York’s Governor Kathy Hochul, Lieutenant Governor Brian A. Benjamin will officially open CWCBExpo New York at its “Ribbon Cutting Ceremony,” also on Nov. 4th. His participation is in recognition of New York’s historical passing of the Marijuana Regulation & Taxation Act (MRTA) which immediately legalized adult-use. His presence also signifies New York City’s success in getting back to business and in-person events at the Javits Convention Center. CWCBExpo New York, Nov. 4-6, is the first and longest running cannabis event at the Javits Center and in New York City, and has become the premier B2B trade show and conference on the East Coast.

Also in attendance all three days at CWCBExpo New York, will be members of the New York State Office of Cannabis Management whose goal is to ensure social justice, public health and safety, and economic development through a comprehensive regulatory framework that centralizes licensing, enforcement and economic development functions.

—Dan Harris, Author, Podcaster, Entrepreneur, and former ABC News anchor and correspondent, In Conversation with Christopher “CJ” Wallace and Willie Mack of Think BIG and Frank White

—New York: From Illicit into the Light with Hillary Peckham, Etain; Tim Seymour, CNBC Fast Money; Vladimir Bautista, Happy Munkey; and David Feldman, Skip Intro Advisors

—Coast to Coast MSOs Keynote Perspectives with Faye Coleman, Pure Genesis and Calvin Frye, Cloneville

—“Inside the Industry – Thought Leadership Series,” over the 3-day conference this series will takes a deep dive into the state of the industry today, discuss its challenges and provide solutions, and project what’s next for this burgeoning industry, hosted by Geoff Whaling, National Hemp Association and Matthew Anderson, Vanguard Scientific

—Michael J. Woods of Big Sun Holdings Group, owners of Black Buffalo 3D Printing, on the Day 3 What’s Next Thought Leadership Series discussing the innovative work Black Buffalo has been doing in the area of 3D printing and how their research and development has created a viable sustainable solution and practical impact on manufacturing for building homes, buildings, industrial campuses, and just about anything else.

CWCBExpo New York will also have a dynamic expo floor on the expansive third level of the Javits Center (Hall 3A). The most innovative product, service and technology companies will showcase their solutions for the entire cannabis ecosystem.

Starting November 1th through November 7 , CWCBExpo Cannabis Week, in collaboration with community organizations, non-profits and cultural events in the New York and tri-state region, will bring the entire industry together for added networking, business building and fun! Download the guide here: https://cwcbexpo.wpengine.com/cannabis-week/

To register and secure the best pre-show pricing go to: https://cwcbexpo.wpengine.com/registration_ny. For more information on limited prime exhibit space and sponsorship opportunities, email: sales@cannabismeansbusiness.com or call 201-580- 2050.

About Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo)

Editor's Note:

Qualified members of the media are invited to register as press for CWCBExpo New York, email: press@cannabismeansbusiness.com

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Cannabis Means Business – Conference & Expo
June 4 - 5, 2025
Javits Convention Center
New York City

Cannabis Means Business Opens Registration

Cannabis Means Business, a Bold New Vision for CWCBExpo