After attending MJBizCon for the past two years as a media partner, my strongest memories are the people.
I initially went to cover the event for Ganajctivist.com Magazine, see what it was all about and make connections. What I found was an enormous expo, an ambitious industry, and a gathering that stretches well beyond the conference programme. For me, the strongest draw is the networking, the energy, the side events, the after-parties, and the camaraderie.
It feels like the cannabis industry’s end-of-year activation. And it’s awesome.
The organisers put considerable work into a carefully curated conference programme, with some sessions lasting just 30 minutes. Study the agenda before you arrive and make time for the subjects and speakers that interest you. There’s a lot to learn alongside everything happening on the expo floor.
For me, the wider experience brings it all together. You’re there to find out what people are doing, what they’re working on, and where you might fit into each other’s plans.
Everybody has a pitch. Have yours ready.
It’s not only about what you’re selling. More importantly, it’s about what you’re building.
Never Say “I’ll Circle Back”
The expo is huge. You will get distracted. You may get lost. And that booth you’re absolutely certain you’ll come back to? You may never find it again.
If something interests you, stop. Ask the question. Get the name, and scan their QR code. Make the connection while you’re standing there.
That doesn’t mean every conversation needs to turn into a full meeting. Sometimes a quick introduction and an exchange of contact information are enough to open the door. But leaving with “I’ll find them later” as your strategy is a gamble.
Scan the badge. Get the card. Take a note about why you wanted to speak again.
Give yourself something useful to work with when you get home.
Go With a Plan—and Follow Up
Before arriving, decide what you want to achieve. There will be plenty competing for your attention.
Are you looking for equipment, suppliers, distribution, partners, career opportunities, or a better understanding of where the industry is heading? Knowing your priorities helps you make decisions when the distractions start.
I’ve found the conference app useful for connecting with people before the event and setting meetings. Scanning the codes on attendees’ badges also helps keep contact information together for follow-up. I still collect cards, too.
Because the deal isn’t necessarily made on the expo floor.
The introduction happens there. You discover a shared interest, identify a need, or start a conversation. What happens afterwards often determines whether that encounter becomes anything more.
Follow up. Remind people who you are, what you discussed, and what the next step could be. Everyone has met a lot of people.
Some of the Best Conversations Happen After Hours
One of the pleasures of going back is catching up with familiar faces.
I met fellow media professional Jimmy Young in Jamaica, and we’ve stayed in touch ever since. Seeing him at MJBizCon is a chance to reconnect with an old friend in the middle of a very busy week.
Those relationships are part of the value. So are the new ones that begin when the formal programme ends.
My advice: plan to attend at least two after-parties or side events. Be social. Give yourself time to talk to people outside the rush of the expo.
And yes, in my experience, someone will be smoking at some point. Often at several points. This is still the cannabis industry.
You don’t need to attend everything. But leave room for the conversations you couldn’t have scheduled.
Also, leave room in your suitcase. Mine has a habit of coming back full.
More Jamaicans Should Be in the Room
I’ve met fellow Jamaicans at MJBizCon, and it’s always good to see us represented. I’d like to see more.
For Jamaican and Caribbean stakeholders, there’s value in seeing the breadth of this industry firsthand. It has gone well beyond flower. Equipment, technology, manufacturing, packaging, services, and the businesses supporting other businesses all form part of the picture.
The plant is interesting. So is the industry being built around it.
Go with questions. Take notes. Get names. Look at what could help move your business or career forward, and be ready to explain what you bring to the conversation.
That’s why everyone is there.
After two years, that’s my biggest takeaway: MJBizCon gives you access to people and possibilities. What you do with those connections is up to you.
If you’re heading to Las Vegas this year, plan ahead, be social, and follow up.
And when you find that booth—stop.
Ganjactivist.com is an MJBizCon media partner. Heading to Las Vegas? Use code MJPRT11 for 20% off your registration at mjbizconference.com.