Event Details

Peter Homberg specialises in life sciences, IP and corporate law, and M&A transactions.

He particularly advises companies in the pharmaceutical, diagnostics, medical device and biotechnology sectors on research and development contracts, collaboration agreements, cross-border IP licensing and IP strategies. He also has extensive experience in advising on compliance issues and advises companies extensively in the field of medical cannabis.

Peter is a frequent speaker at seminars and conferences and is the author of numerous articles and other publications on corporate or IP law in the areas of life sciences and medical cannabis. In addition, he has extensive transaction experience in Southeast Asia.

His clients include:

• Start-ups
• Medium-sized companies
• Listed companies
• Nationally and internationally operating corporate groups
• Financial investors
• Strategic investors

Experience Highlights
DEMECAN GmbH: Preparation of a legal opinion on the compatibility of the legalization of cannabis for recreational purposes in Germany with international and European law. Identification of possible solutions to overcome obstacles under international and European law.

Canopy Growth Corp.: Advising the subsidiary of one of Canada’s leading medical cannabis providers in connection with the acquisition of the Storz & Bickel GmbH & Co. KG group of companies for a total of €135 million.

DEMECAN GmbH: Preparation of a comprehensive legal opinion on the legal hurdles to the legalization of cannabis for recreational purposes and analysis of possible legal solutions.
Proteona Pte. Ltd.: Advising the biotechnology company on the conclusion of an exclusive worldwide license agreement with the National University of Singapore (NUS).
Canadian supplier of medical cannabis: Advising in connection with the conclusion of a joint venture agreement with a German wholesaler of pharmaceuticals.

Scil Technology GmbH: Advising on the out-licensing of a program for the regenerative treatment of osteoarthritis and cartilage defects to Sanofi.
Scil Technology GmbH: Advising on the sale of its service and production division to Nanohale AG.
German biotechnology company: Advising on the sale of a technology for the treatment of certain forms of heart failure.

German mid-sized pharmaceutical company: Advising on the out-licensing and distribution of an API for the treatment of interstitial cystitis to a US-based multinational pharmaceutical company.
Large US-based pharmaceutical company: Advising on the due diligence of a technology portfolio in advance of the in-licensing of a technology for the production of vaccines.

Swiss biotech company: Advising on a planned collaboration with a French multinational pharmaceutical company.

German-Singaporean biotech company: Advising on the in-licensing of a key diagnostic technology from the National University of Singapore.

French venture capital fund: Advising on the acquisition of a block of shares in a German biotech company.

Medium-sized pharmaceutical company: Advising on the restructuring of sales in Portugal and various other European countries.

Various clients: Advising in connection with transactions in the life sciences sector, including technology transfer agreements, research and development agreements, corporate transactions (mergers & acquisitions), private equity transactions, arbitration proceedings and litigation.

Ngaio Bealum is one of the premiere cannabis comics in the United States and you’ll see why he has performed at just about every Hempfest on the West Coast and too many cannabis-related events to even keep track of. He has appeared on Comedy Central, BET, MTV and many other networks and shows across your television dial. Very recently, he was a featured guest on the hilarious podcast of Doug Benson (Super High Me, Half-Baked), Getting Doug With High. In addition to his cannabis comedy, he is the former editor of West Coast Cannabis Magazine and has been a tireless activist for legalization. While Ngaio’s comedy is hilarious whether you are a full-fledged member of the cannabis community or not, it certainly doesn’t hurt.

Founder and CEO of Four 20 Pharma: The Biography of Torsten Greif

Torsten Greif was born in Paderborn in 1981. He studied International Business at the University of Paderborn and Northwood University in Michigan (USA), earning a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA). He then pursued a Master’s degree in Corporate Strategy & Economic Policy at the Maastricht School of Management in the Netherlands, completing the program in 2004 at just 23 years old—making him one of the five youngest graduates in Europe at the time.

Early Career in the Insurance Industry

Torsten Greif began his professional career in the insurance sector, focusing on sales & distribution as well as product management. He achieved success in both B2C and B2B markets and gained valuable experience at Deloitte in Düsseldorf, working in internal sales for the globally operating auditing and consulting firm.

Entrepreneurial Ventures

In the early 2010s, Greif started investing in companies and developing his own business concepts. Since then, he has successfully co-founded and led ventures across multiple industries.

• GREIF HOLLANDER Group (Paderborn) – Specializing in real estate and senior living solutions.
• Energieplan-OstWest (Bad Wünneberg) – A fast-growing renewable energy company focused on wind power development and operations.
• Backforce (Interstuhl Group) – Played a key role in convincing Interstuhl to create its own gaming chair division and was instrumental in building and developing the Backforce brand, now one of Europe’s leading gaming chair providers.

Co-Founding Four 20 Pharma

In 2018, Torsten Greif co-founded Four 20 Pharma GmbH in Paderborn alongside his friends Thomas Schatton, Ireneusz Storm, and Wilhelm Schöning. In 2021, he and Thomas Schatton made the strategic decision to take over the company’s operational leadership, with the goal of strengthening and scaling the business. Just a year later, they successfully sold 55% of the company’s shares to Curaleaf Holdings, a publicly traded U.S. corporation and the world’s largest cannabis enterprise, generating over one billion dollars in annual revenue.

Torsten Greif is passionate about networking and bringing together people and successful business models across industries to develop new opportunities and ventures.

He is married, has two children, and lives with his family in Essen.

Will Muecke is a co-founding managing member of Artemis Growth Partners, a values-driven private equity platform dedicated to sustainable and impact-focused investments in the cannabis industry on a worldwide basis.

Artemis Growth Partners oversees US $400 million in mission-driven discretionary assets under management (AUM) invested in the global cannabis value chain, including branded products, distributors, value-added service providers, ancillary operators, and science-driven research and development platforms.

Will was co-founding managing partner of CoreCo Private Equity, a 2017 GIIRS-rated “Best for the World” ESG-focused impact fund backed by investors including the IFC/World Bank, and the multilateral/development banks of Germany, Norway, Switzerland, Belgium, the IADB, and UHNW individuals and European family offices (CoreCo was fully deployed as of July 2017).

Will was formerly the global co-head of the healthcare services sector in the healthcare investment banking group at Goldman, Sachs & Co. (New York).

Will maintains extensive personal and professional networks in Europe, US, and Latin America.

Will resides in London and is the Chief Investment Officer for Artemis Growth Partners.

Charlie Bachtell founded Cresco Labs in 2013 and serves as its Chief Executive Officer. His vision is to create the “most important organization in cannabis” where employees feel empowered, valued and appreciated and serve as owners, stewards and leaders of the cannabis industry for the benefit of all cannabis stakeholders—a vision that has guided Cresco Labs as an efficient growth company that is shaping cannabis into a responsible, respectable and robust industry.
Prior to founding Cresco Labs, Mr. Bachtell worked for a decade at Guaranteed Rate as its Executive Vice President and General Counsel. In this role, he guided the company as the mortgage industry transitioned from unregulated to hyperregulated, with a state-by-state regulatory framework. Through this unique experience, Mr. Bachtell is one of the leading authorities on corporate governance and complex regulatory compliance in the cannabis industry.
Currently, Mr. Bachtell is the Chairman of US Cannabis Roundtable. He is a board member of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce and a member of the Economic Club of Chicago. In addition, Mr. Bachtell is an adjunct professor at Northwestern University’s Pritzker School of Law, leading a course covering the legal and regulatory issues present in the emerging cannabis industry.

He was named one of Chicago’s most visionary and accomplished business leaders in the Chicago Titan 100 awards and a Who’s Who of Chicago Business by Crain’s. He is also the recipient of the Captains of the Industry Award from the American Trade Association for Cannabis Hemp. Through his leadership of Cresco Labs, the company has been recognized as a Best-Led American Company by Inc. magazine. Cresco Labs was also named one of the fastest growing businesses in Chicago by Crain’s and ranked the fastest growing U.S. cannabis company on Financial Times’ fourth annual list of The America’s Fastest Growing Companies.

Mr. Bachtell holds a B.S. from the University of Arizona and a J.D. from DePaul University’s College of Law.

Physician and natural scientist Dr. Adrian Fischer founded DEMECAN in 2017, together with his fellow students Dr. Constantin von der Groeben (lawyer) and Dr. Cornelius Maurer (economist). Their goal: to guarantee patients in Germany access to medical cannabis of the highest pharmaceutical quality “Made in Germany”. Today, DEMECAN operates as the only independent German producer of medical cannabis on behalf of the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) and runs Europe’s largest indoor production facility for medical cannabis in Saxony.

Dr. Adrian Fischer developed the cultivation concept of medicinal cannabis and coordinated the  expansion of the production facility near Dresden. He is responsible for the company’s own cultivation of cannabis, the production of cannabis products according to pharmaceutical standards and the research cultivation on the 100,000 sqm site in Ebersbach near Dresden. His responsibilities also include quality management and communication with physicians, pharmacists and other professional stakeholders.

Fischer completed his medical studies in Cologne and Boston. As part of his dissertation, he conducted pharmacological studies as a study physician and received his doctorate in 2015 for his dissertation, which was awarded the best scientific doctoral thesis of the year. The results of his studies on the mode of action of antidepressants in humans were awarded the prize for the most important research paper of the year by the European Psychiatric Association (EPA) and have been published in the most  prestigious international journals. Dr. Fischer has received numerous other awards, including from the German Psychological Society, and his research has been reported in Time Magazine.

During his research on complex neuromodulatory and transmitter systems involved in pain regulation, he also focused on the mechanism of action of cannabinoids. Dr. Fischer quickly recognized the potential of the active ingredients of the cannabis plant, but also the lack of offers in Germany and the educational work that still needs to be done to free doctors, health insurers and patients from prejudices.

In addition to his research work, he was employed at the hospital. There, the native of Freiburg had to adjust to new extreme situations again and again. This prepared him for the turbulent time as a founder and entrepreneur in a newly emerging market.

With DEMECAN, he wants to continue researching medicinal cannabis, because although cannabis has been used as a medicinal and useful plant for a long time, research is still in its infancy worldwide, especially in Germany.

Dr. Adrian Fischer is an expert and speaker on the following topics:

• Cultivation and further processing of medicinal cannabis
• Pain therapy with cannabis
• The active ingredients of the cannabis plant
• GMP requirements and pharmaceutical standards
• Neurobiology

Paul-Lukas Good is the president of the Swiss Cannabis Research Association and the study director of Switzerland’s largest cannabis pilot project. He also serves as president of the Cannabis Forschung Deutschland Association, which is set to conduct a research project under the KCanG in Germany. A passionate advocate for evidence-based recreational cannabis regulation, Paul-Lukas brings together his entrepreneurial expertise as co-founder of a boutique law firm in Zurich with more than 15 years of experience as a lawyer and legal consultant, specializing in cannabis regulation.

George Bellow is a visionary entrepreneur and strategic leader with over 16 years of experience in sales, business development, and startup growth across industries like pharmaceuticals, virtual reality, and fintech. As Co-Founder of SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals, George successfully raised €30 million, playing a pivotal role in establishing the company’s sales and distribution networks across Europe. His work secured partnerships in key markets such as Germany, the UK, Switzerland, and Poland, positioning SOMAÍ as a leading name in the European medical cannabis sector.

Before SOMAÍ, George founded Belka VR, a trailblazing virtual reality company that gained global recognition. He also spearheaded international sales growth for UNICUM, expanding its reach to over 24 countries. In Russia, George co-founded Mili, a fintech pioneer in microloans, scaling it to become the largest provider in the country with over $13 million in revenue before a successful exit. His strategic foresight helped raise €5 million for Mili, fueling its rapid growth and market leadership.

With executive education from MIT Sloan and an MBA from Moscow School of Management Skolkovo, George brings unmatched expertise in strategic planning, capital raising, and business scaling, driving impactful results and innovation in every venture he leads.

Sita Schubert is a fully qualified lawyer and has been passionate about the healthcare industry since her first job in an international management consultancy many years ago.

After more than 15 years as managing director of a pharmaceutical company, she founded her own company, COMM-OP EUROPE, and brings international pharmaceutical and cannabis companies to the German market as well as qualifying them for EU-GMP and national Licenses. In her law firm SchubertLAW she supports her clients not only legally but also strategically. She has been active in the cannabis industry since 2016 and, in addition to building an international network, has brought major companies to the German and Austrian market.

In 2019, together with the cannabis companies, she founded the European Medical Cannabis Association (www.eumca.org), in which not only cannabis companies and pharmaceutical associations are members, but also patient associations, medical associations and science – ONE VOICE – to speak with one voice. Since then, as well as being an international advocate, she has supported patient groups at government hearings and campaigned for unrestricted access to medical cannabis treatment.

Danielle, an award winning filmmaker and activist, is deeply committed to advocating for plant medicine as a fundamental right for all individuals. Under her leadership and focus on enhancing compliance and profitability Laurelcrest has established itself as a reputable entity within the hemp and cannabis industry worldwide. Privately owned by Danielle and her family, the company operates out of an impressive 20,000-square-foot GMP, FDA registered facility located in McMinnville, Oregon. Danielle’s vision and dedication have not only propelled Laurelcrest forward but have also contributed to shaping the hemp industry’s trajectory towards a future marked by integrity, accessibility, innovation, and a profound commitment to the health of our communities and the planet.

A rising star in the Canadian cannabis industry, Alexandre Gauthier leads Origine Nature’s cultivation team as Vice-President of R&D. Driven by an unrelenting passion for cannabis and a desire to uncover its full potential, Alexandre has been actively involved in the industry since the legalization of medical cannabis. His deep expertise quickly earned him the title of Master Grower, and he has played a pivotal role in helping various organizations cultivate and market premium cannabis, all while maintaining impeccable traceability standards.

In 2022, Alexandre was honored as Canada’s Top Grower of the Year, a testament to his exceptional mastery of the craft and profound knowledge of the plant. In 2024, a genetic strain he personally developed won the prestigious Cannabis Cup, further solidifying his reputation as one of the industry’s foremost experts. Alexandre is not only a thought leader but also an innovator whose contributions continue to shape and elevate the future of cannabis.

Erin Butler is a seasoned financial and market research professional with over 17 years of experience spanning finance, market intelligence, and corporate development. As the Chief Financial Officer of the Global Cannabis Exchange group of companies including the American Cannabis Exchange, Canadian Cannabis Exchange, Loud Lion Capital, and Loud Lion Supply. Erin plays a pivotal role in driving the company’s financial strategy, long-term growth, and innovation within the evolving cannabis industry. With a strong background in financial planning, corporate development, and strategic intelligence, Erin has a proven track record of delivering impactful insights and fostering financial success. Her expertise positions her as a leader at the intersection of finance and cannabis, shaping the future of this dynamic market.

Rui Soares is the founder and CEO of Paralab, a dynamic and innovative manufacturer and distributor, of the most advanced technology for cannabis post-harvest and cannabinoid extraction and purification. Paralab operates across all of Europe, Israel, and Latin America. With over 30 years of experience serving the highly regulated European Pharmaceutical market, since 2018, Paralab entered the medical cannabis arena, by offering EU-GMP compliant solutions for controlling bioburden in cannabis production, bucking, trimming, sorting, drying, irradiation, packaging, milling, extraction, winterization, filtration, decarboxylation, Wiped Film Distillation, Crystallization, and Chromatography.
Paralab is ISO9001:2015, has an EU-GMP certified laboratory for Human Medicinal Products and Human Investigational Medicinal Products, and is expected to receive in Q1 2024 the Licence to perform R&D activities with Cannabis products.

Franz is a 4th generation grower and has been involved in the European cannabis industry for over 10 years, from selling clones to cultivation equipment. Franz has extensive international experience, from designing EU GMP facilities in North Macedonia to successfully helping projects reach their objectives faster in South Africa.Franz serves as a Horticulture Service Specialist for Cannabis for Fluence’s EMEA region.

Professional Record
Prof. Dr. Simone Graeff-Hönninger holds the Chair of Agronomy at the Institute of Crop Science, University of Hohenheim, since 2022. Her major research focuses on innovative cropping systems, digitalization in agriculture, and the sustainable bioeconomy, integrating process-oriented crop models (2D, 3D). She has extensive experience leading interdisciplinary research projects in food and agriculture, natural resources, bioenergy, and cannabis.
Prof. Graeff-Hönninger is the coordinator of multiple cannabis-related research initiatives, including projects on food, fiber, and pharmaceutical applications. Since 2019, she has led the BMWK-funded international network Cannabis-Net, fostering research collaboration between Germany and Canada to enhance medical cannabis breeding, processing technologies, and regulatory alignment. Her work spans from optimizing hemp for food, fiber, and pharmaceutical applications to ensuring compliance with international conventions while advancing cannabis technologies and market access. With extensive experience in multi-institutional collaborations, she strategically bridges disciplines to drive innovation in cannabis research and advises policymakers and scientific organizations.

Academic career
Degrees
1998 Diploma in Agricultural Biology, University of Hohenheim, Germany
2000 PHD in Agronomy, University of Gießen, Germany.
2006 Dr. habil. (Venia legendi for Agronomy and Modeling), University of Hohenheim, Germany. Habilitation-thesis: “Precision Agriculture and Crop
Simulation Modeling – combining two approaches to design a new, evolutionary, holistic farming concept for the 21st Century.”

Benedikt Sons is co-founder and CEO of Cansativa Group. Before founding the company Benedikt studied industrial engineering and management at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and the University of California San Diego (UCSD). Benedikt is a pioneer in building new business models and in taking them to scale. Benedikt has several years of experience in both strategy consulting and industry. Combined with Jakob’s experience, the brothers decided to start their business in a non-existent market – with success: today, Cansativa is the leading platform for cannabis in Germany: As such Cansativa developed into the leading “One-Stop Shop” with a unique and the most comprehensive multi-brand portfolio in the German market.

Born in Ljubljana, she received her PhD in biochemistry from the University of Ljubljana in 1983. From 1996-2018, she was Director of the National Institute of Biology, where she founded the Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, which she headed until 2004, and where she is now Head of the Department’s Research Program. Since 2004, she has been a full professor and lecturer in cancer biochemistry at the pre and post-graduate Biomedical Sciences programs at UL. She began her academic career at the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the Jožef Stefan Institute, with with breaks in between when she worked at the UKC Pediatric Clinic, at a postdoctoral training at Wayne State University in Michigan and later as a visiting professor at the Albert Einstein MC in Philadelphia, USA and visiting professor at the University of Sao Paolo in Brazil.

Tamara Lah Turnšek’s field of work is quite broad, ranging from enzymatics and proteois enzymes to biological and molecular cancer research, where she has always been closely linked to biomedical or clinical research. More recently, the focus has been on cancer stem cell research and on mesenchymal stem cell research in the context of cancer therapy. In this work, she has also monitored the impact of natural compounds such as xanthohumol, resveratrol and, more recently, cannabis and cannabinoids as anticancer agents.

Dr. Can Ansay founded the platform DrAnsay.com in 2018 with the goal of simplifying digital access to medical services. It started with online sick notes in Germany, and in 2019 in France as well. Non-profit online COVID test certificates followed in 2021, which have been used free of charge by millions.

In 2022, DrAnsay.com launched the pharmacy marketplace for medical cannabis, including a doctor’s prescription. The platform has introduced all relevant innovations for online access to cannabis from pharmacies in Germany – such as digital prescriptions via questionnaires without a doctor’s visit and the introduction of anti-aging as an indication for healthy users. This created the world’s largest legal cannabis market.

Finn A. Hänsel (40) is Managing Director and one of the founders of Sanity Group. As former MD of the European moving platform Movinga and former management consultant at BCG, he has many years of experience in building successful companies. In Australia, as MD of Rocket Internet Australia, he built up the fashion platform The Iconic, and subsequently served as MD of the ProSiebenSat.1 incubator Epic Companies. In 2015, Finn Hänsel co-founded the craft beer brewery Berliner Berg. He is a board member of the Federal Association of German Startups (Bundesverband Deutsche Startups) and acts as a mentor for the start-up accelerator Techstars. Finn Hänsel was awarded “Founder of the Year” at the German Startup Awards 2021.

Adi heads the firm’s Cannabis desk.

Adi provides guidance and consultation to cannabis companies in Israel and around the world in all required legal services, including, licenses and approvals, corporate matters, commercial agreements, investment agreements, merger and acquisition transactions, collaborations agreements in Israel and abroad, and in all stages of the value chain of the cannabis production processes.

Adi is working with global clients, advises them on corporate and commercial transactions, including in the structuring and negotiating stages, strategic collaborations, joint ventures, investments, and commercial agreements that deal with distribution, manufacturing, consulting and services agreement, among others.

Adi is also involved in the strategic thinking and decision-making processes, both on the corporate and commercial level.

Adi lectures at various universities around Israel on cannabis regulations and other legal issues pertaining to cannabis, as part of their master’s degree programs in clinical pharmacy, as well as providing lectures at different forums and venues which include lecturing to pharmacists and other medical professionals who are pursuing a license to dispense cannabis.

Following a successful 20-year baseball career in professional and D1 collegiate athletics and a 1988 Olympic gold medal winner, Chris Sinacori now finds himself as the CEO of 3WIN Corp, the preferred distributor of the leading global cannabis vape hardware, CCELL since 2015.

3WIN Corp is a certified CCELL distributor who has built a company culture of family and developing strong relationships with all their customers. The philosophy of 3WIN is a hands-on approach to proven success, as they continue to grow their footprint in the diverse industry. 3WIN offers the finest customizable CCELL hardware, the sharpest custom packaging, and the quickest lead times. 3WIN currently dominates the vape hardware space in the United States and currently ships to 17 countries around the world.

Most recently, Chris Sinacori has taken 3WIN to new heights and has merged with Serenus Global, a leading company in the psychedelic space. Serenus Global is an international leader in the controlled substances industry. As a large conglomerate in the forever growing cannabis and psychedelic space Chris’ strategic goal is to become the provider of choice in the international stage, while maintaining profitability for our partners.

Luis Pilonieta is a seasoned sales leader and cannabis packaging automation expert with over 16 years of experience in the packaging automation industry. As the Director of Sales at Paxiom Group, he has played a pivotal role in delivering innovative automated packaging solutions to cannabis producers across Canada, the United States, Australia, and Europe. His in-depth knowledge of regulatory requirements and operational challenges allows him to develop tailored automation strategies that drive efficiency, compliance, and scalability. With a global perspective and a results-driven approach, Luis has been instrumental in helping cannabis businesses optimize their packaging processes and stay competitive in this dynamic industry.

With over 15 years of sales, marketing and commercial experience, Peter has built and led start-ups with global operations in the cannabis, technology, media, and entertainment industries. At Greentank, Peter leads the sales team and spearheads the strategy and execution on bringing new technologies and products to market, fostering strong partnerships with the top cannabis brands in the world. Previously, he co-founded TREC Brands (acquired by Weed Me), one of the first brand & CPG companies in the newly legalized Canadian cannabis sector.

Giadha A. DeCarcer is the Founder of New Frontier Data, the premier data and analytics technology firm specializing in the global cannabis industry. Founding New Frontier Data in 2014, DeCarcer grew the company from a $25,000 one-person-based startup to an over $150 Million Dollars-valued enterprise, with more than 100 employees across three continents. DeCarcer currently sits on several Boards in the U.S., Europe and Asia, providing strategic guidance and coaching both within and outside of the cannabis industry, with special emphasis on how to effectively construct a new value proposition to raise money and how to strategically position to successfully go to market.

Nick Brousianos is a driven entrepreneur with a passion for natural-derived medicines, automation, and manufacturing. Through his ventures, he has demonstrated a keen interest in new technologies and innovation.
In 2019, he founded Cannabreeze, a B2B distributor for leading manufacturers and services specializing in the medical cannabis sector.
Cannabreeze provides end-to-end solutions for businesses in the medical cannabis industry by assessing how each stage of the process impacts the next.
Taking into account factors such as cost, compliance, stability, and safety of final goods we ensure optimal results while providing comprehensive support and guidance.

Dirk Heitepriem is acting as the President / Chairman of the German Cannabis Industry Association (BvCW) and is working as the Vice President External Affairs for Aurora Europe, a subsidiary of Aurora Cannabis Inc., one of the global leaders in medicinal cannabis. He was involved in the Cannabis Industry since 2018. As the deputy chairman of BvCW he is leading the working group on Regulation of a recreational cannabis market in Germany. For the last 15 year he worked in the field of Government Relations for Canadian companies like Canopy Growth and BlackBerry, dealing with countries across Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Dirk studied Journalism and Public Relations in Hannover and worked in German Politics for several years.

Mara Gordon is an innovator in the medical cannabis industry, co-founding Aunt Zelda’s, Octopi Wellness, and Zelira Therapeutics to advance science- based plant medicine. Drawing from her background as a process engineer, she has developed precise cannabis treatment protocols that have improved the lives of thousands of patients worldwide. Her innovative software solutions bring data-driven rigor to plant-based therapies, setting new standards for the field.
A sought-after speaker and educator, Mara’s TEDx talk has inspired over half a million viewers, while her thought leadership has been featured in acclaimed documentaries like Mary Janes: The Women of Weed, The Medicine in Marijuana, and Weed the People. Through her work, she continues to advocate for informed, compassionate, and evidence-based approaches to cannabis medicine.

Max Majot is a cannabis cultivation authority who excels at project and infrastructure development and management. His command of grow techniques and cultivation site idiosyncrasies ensures that Royal Queen Seeds (RQS) maintains a high level of quality and consistently delivers elite products across all of its markets. Max also collaborates closely with the research and development team that drives the ever-expanding RQS seed and strain library, and uses his knowledge of supply chain logistics to efficiently scale company expansion. A teacher at heart, Max enjoys visiting RQS farms to advise on best practices. Max grew up in New Caledonia and now resides in Lyon, France. He studied international commerce and earned his master’s degree in logistics and supply chain management from RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia. An avid cook and foodie, Max also likes to spend time with his dogs and travel the globe.

John Fowler is a pioneering figure in the Canadian cannabis industry with over 15 years of experience as a cultivator, patients-rights advocate, lawyer and executive. He founded 7ACRES, which became one of Canada’s leading premium flower brands before being acquired by Canopy Growth for $435M CAD. Currently serving as President of Muskoka Grown, Fowler’s team has led the company out of bankruptcy to become one of the few profitable Canadian cultivators through its successful international expansion, with a focus on data-driven cultivation and people-centric management.

Götz Schneider-Rothhaar specializes in the protection, the clearance and the defense of media and online content as well as related contractual and regulatory issues and he is highly specialized in all marketing and PR matters, this especially also in the cannabis trade. He represents national and international clients in the areas of music, concerts, collective rights management, celebrities, press, reputation and crisis, platform piracy and gambling and he also accompanies companies in different aspects of the cannabis business. He lectures at the Media Institute of the University of Mainz and is a member of the specialist lawyers’ committee of the Frankfurt Bar Association for copyright and media law. He is part of the Executive Committee of the worldwide linked International Association of Entertainment Lawyers IAEL, a regular panelist and moderator on entertainment industry conferences and he is a permanent counsel for the Bundesverband der Konzert- und Veranstaltungswirtschaft e.V. (BDKV), the professional association for all divisions and genres of the German concert and event industry.

Jamie Pearson has been a highly respected leader in the cannabis industry for over a decade. Her “in the trenches” operational success and deep, global relationships led her to be coined “Wonder Woman” in the 2023 Women of Influence issue of Cannabis Now Magazine. Fluent in German, Jamie spent decades in the global real estate investment and finance world on three continents. She currently sits on the advisory boards of Dope Drinks, Marley One, Cellotex Dev Ltd, Global Cannabis Network Collective (GCNC), Lift & Co, and Alpen Group AG.
Jamie founded and leads The New Holland Group, a global consulting firm serving clients with international business development & strategy, seed to sale operations, branding & marketing, effective capital raising, executive coaching, cross border IP licensing, celebrity partnerships, buy & sell side M&A, and financial turnarounds. Client referrals have been New Holland Group’s only source of business and business is booming!
Before New Holland Group, Jamie spent seven years, including three as the President & CEO, of Bhang Inc. [CSE:BHNG] one of the world’s most-awarded and recognized cannabis edible brands, famous for its infused chocolate bars. She led the company’s diverse executive team, managed the “expansion through licensing” plan, ran the capital markets division, and was the face of the brand – catapulting Bhang from a California favorite to a multi-state and multi-national phenomenon. When Jamie exited Bhang the brand had been distributed in 7 US states and 10 countries through licensing deals with the likes of Trulieve, [CSE:TRUL], Indiva [TSX:NDVA] and Origin House [CSE:OH] (now Cresco). Jamie served four years as the Vice Chairman of Bhang’s Board and served on the Board’s audit committee.
Jamie is a popular speaker with competence in the areas of global expansion, ESG, IP & brand licensing, real estate acquisition, creative deal structuring, celebrity partnerships, business development, and leadership. Jamie can be reached at jamie@new-holland.group.

A seasoned cannabis industry professional, Omar came to High Tide from one of the world’s leading global communications companies, where he served as the National Cannabis Sector Lead. During his tenure, Omar worked with several licensed cannabis producers, retailers, and companies involved in the cannabis ancillary space to affect public policy changes and build a corporate profile.

He has over 20 years of experience working as a political and communications strategist in Canadian federal and provincial politics, including serving as Chief of Staff to several Ontario Ministers, including the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, the Minister of Economic Development and Trade and the Minister of Government Services. With a diverse policy background across healthcare, economics, regulatory affairs, and labour relations, Omar has a proven track record developing complex policy proposals, building stakeholder coalitions, and leading and executing communications plans.

David Hyde, M.Sc., CPC has worked in the cannabis industry since 2013, when he consulted for a majority of Canada’s first medical cannabis companies. Over the past 11 years, David has started 7 companies in the cannabis sector, sold a leading cannabis business consultancy he founded, worked with multiple governments on cannabis policy, provided strategic guidance to some of the world’s largest cannabis companies, and brokered numerous cannabis M&A transactions globally.

As David continues to offer his expertise and unique experience to the evolving cannabis industry, you can find him leading his group of companies to the forefront of the cannabis sector.

Founder|CEO of Hyde Advisory & Investments Inc., a company focused on cannabis sector mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and partnerships. HAI has an 8-person team with 60+ Cannabis/CBD business listings in North America and globally: www.hydeadvisory.com

Founder|Managing Director of CannaNavigators, a Canada-based, global cannabis, hemp & psychedelics consultancy focused on licensing, compliance & security with experience in 30+ countries: www.cannanavigators.com.

Founder|Partner of Cannabis Global Consultants (CGC), a collective of 4 leading cannabis consultancies offering turnkey design, strategy & implementation support to cannabis businesses/start-ups and governments globally: www.cannabisglobalconsultants.com

Founder and President of TSRgrow, Mikhail Sagal is a veteran of the cannabis industry. With over 14 years of experience in LED lighting solutions and over 29 issued patents, Mikhail is a pioneer in LED lighting and has a proven track record of product innovation and commercialization, as demonstrated by TSRgrow’s TOTALgrow™ Solution.

A longtime player in the space, Mikhail believes the key to success in an increasingly competitive industry is maintaining the culture of collaboration that growers and suppliers have valued for so long. It’s this passion for shared success that has made TSRgrow a trusted partner to commercial growers. With his unique expertise and industry knowledge, Mikhail is frequently called upon to present at industry events and conferences.

Prior to founding TSRgrow in 2009, Mikhail worked for 13 years developing and commercializing thermally conductive plastics with companies worldwide. His technical experience includes thermal management, LED system and product design, manufacturing systems, design for manufacturing, wireless control system and applications in solid state lighting. It was his early understanding of the power of LEDs that led Mikhail to founding TSRgrow, quickly expanding the company beyond lighting to deliver a full horticultural growing solution.

Andy Mannsfeld is a German-born, U.S.-raised physician with a diverse entrepreneurial background spanning healthcare, craft beer, and medical cannabis. While practicing in Colorado during cannabis legalization, he observed firsthand the benefits of medical cannabis for pain patients. After working in Vietnam’s craft beer industry, Andy returned to Germany and joined a Portuguese cannabis cultivation project. This experience underscored the industry’s need for a platform to connect companies and talent, leading him to establish EUCannaJobs—a leading recruitment platform for the cannabis sector.

Steve has over 12 years of experience in the cannabis industry across cultivation, processing, and manufacturing end products. He is a consultant to hemp and cannabis companies around the world, as well as the Director of Sales & Business Development for SciPhy Systems, a leading extraction technology innovator. He also serves as COO of a New York processing start-up. Steve founded one of the United State’s first legal cannabis production-processing facilities, and also raised $4.5M in 2018 to build a large-scale cGMP hemp processing facility. He regularly contributes to industry publications like Hemp Benchmarks and Marijuana Venture and was featured as a keynote speaker in 2023 at The Global Cannabis Executive Summit (CanExec).

Lisa Haag is an entrepreneur in the German cannabis industry. She holds a degree in business administration (IUBH, Bad Honnef) and a Bachelor of Business (Victoria University, Melbourne) in hospitality management. Lisa worked many years for companies in strategic and regional sales for FM-services (IFM, TFM, etc.).

Lisa has been active in the cannabis industry since 2017. In July 2018, she founded MJ_UNIVERSE GmbH, a publisher of digital products (e.g. Krautinvest.de) and a collaborative network to connect companies along the value chain of cannabis. She works with a network of specialised experts to consult companies looking to navigate the European cannabis ecosystem. As an entrepreneur, she is committed to projects dedicated to accelerate cannabis as a medicine, to advocacy for a more progressive and realistic cannabis regulatory framework and to activities to mainstream cannabis. With MJ_UNIVERSE, Lisa’s mission is to unlock the full potential of cannabis.

Lisa is part of the board of the BvCW e.V. and an active member of the Cannafem Network – a network for women, hemp and cannabis.

Yogesh Jhamtani is a dynamic and visionary leader in the cannabis industry, serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Buffalo Extraction Systems. With extensive experience and a global mindset, Yogesh has successfully led the company’s expansion across multiple continents, while focusing on turnkey solutions for cannabis extraction and establishing itself as a leading provider of state-of-the-art extraction systems for cannabis and other organic products.

Yogesh holds a distinguished position as a visionary and entrepreneur in the cannabis sector. Under his dynamic leadership, Buffalo Extraction Systems has emerged as a trusted provider of turnkey solutions, catering to the unique needs of cannabis businesses worldwide. Yogesh’s hands-on experience in designing, engineering, and implementing integrated systems has delivered exceptional results, optimizing operational efficiency, ensuring regulatory compliance, and enhancing profitability for countless clients.

Turnkey Equipment Manufacturing:
Yogesh possesses an in-depth understanding of the distinct requirements and challenges faced by cannabis cultivators, extractors, and manufacturers. His leadership has led to the development of comprehensive turnkey solutions, encompassing design, engineering, and implementation. By streamlining processes and maximizing productivity, Yogesh’s expertise empowers cannabis businesses to thrive in a competitive market.

Regulatory Compliance and Quality Control:
Recognizing the complex regulatory landscape surrounding the cannabis industry, Yogesh is well-versed in the stringent quality control measures essential for ensuring compliance and the delivery of safe, high-quality cannabis products. He provides invaluable insights into navigating regulatory requirements and establishing robust quality assurance protocols, safeguarding businesses and consumers alike.

Innovations, Contributions, and Industry Influence:
Yogesh’s contributions extend beyond the success of Buffalo Extraction Systems. He has played a pivotal role in driving industry advancements and fostering innovation within the cannabis sector. One such notable achievement is his involvement in establishing the first Cannabis Innovation hub in the African continent through a strategic partnership with the CSIR in Pretoria, South Africa. This collaboration has served as a catalyst for industry growth and the development of cutting-edge solutions.

Yogesh’s expertise and business acumen have been recognized through various achievements. Under his leadership, Buffalo Extraction Systems was honored with the award for the “Best Technology Company in India” by the prestigious annual industry conference, the India Hemp Expo, in 2023. This prestigious recognition highlights the company’s excellence and Yogesh’s ability to navigate the dynamic market landscape.

Innovations, Contributions, and Industry Influence:
Yogesh Jhamtani is renowned for introducing groundbreaking technologies to the cannabis industry. One notable accomplishment is the development of the first automatic conveyorized dryer for the hemp space. This innovative solution, with the largest installation in Asia capable of processing up to 1 ton per hour, has revolutionized hemp drying processes. It has significantly enhanced efficiency, scalability, and productivity in the industry.

Furthermore, Yogesh’s visionary mindset and deep understanding of market dynamics have led to the development of comprehensive solutions that address the unique challenges faced by cannabis cultivators, extractors, and manufacturers. These contributions have not only optimized operational efficiency but also driven the overall growth and success of businesses in the cannabis industry. Yogesh’s expertise in engineering design and adherence to GMP compliance further demonstrate his commitment to excellence and client satisfaction.

Cristina Sánchez is Full Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Complutense University (UCM; Madrid, Spain). Since the late 1990s, she’s been conducting scientific research on cannabis and cancer. Her work was pioneer in describing the antitumor potential of cannabinoids and the underlying mechanisms of action. During these decades, she’s also participated in numerous teaching, training and educating activities for students, health professionals, patients, legislators, entrepreneurs, etc. She has served as scientific advisor for different companies and foundations, and as Vice-Dean of Research at the School of Biology at UCM. She’s currently a member of UCM’s Good Practices in Research Committee, Secretary and founding member of the Spanish Cannabinoid Research Society and President of the Spanish Society of Cannabinoid Research.

Beau Whitney is the founder and Chief Economist at Whitney Economics, a global leader in cannabis and hemp business consulting, data, and economic research. Whitney Economics is based in Portland, Oregon.

Serving an international clientele, Beau is considered one of the leading cannabis economists in the U.S. and globally. His applications of economic principles to create actionable operational and policy recommendations has been recognized by governments, and throughout the economic, investment, and business communities.

Beau has provided policy recommendations at the state, national and international levels and is considered an authority on cannabis economics and the supply chain.

Kai is characterized by his outstanding expertise and diverse practice in the cannabis industry. With a broad range of expertise in cannabis and business law, he provides comprehensive legal support to companies and individuals.

From contract drafting and company formation to day-to-day legal support, he assists cannabis companies with customized solutions in all legal matters, including white collar criminal law where necessary.

Kai is also the author of the blog canna-biz.legal, where he positions himself as an expert in the thriving cannabis business. Canna-biz.legal not only provides insights into the legal status of cannabis in Germany and Europe today, but also current developments and offers resources for businesses and interested parties.

His work spans all aspects of the cannabis industry, from advising companies on cultivation licenses and production regulations to assisting with regulatory issues in product development. His deep understanding of the complex legal framework in this sector makes him a sought-after contact.
Kai and his law firm KFN+ advise large CBD and medical cannabis companies, as well as companies and associations interested in the emerging recreational cannabis market. He is also advisor to the European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA), which has submitted a joint application to the EU Commission for authorization as a novel food for various CBD products.

With an international perspective, Kai operates not only nationally, but also across borders. His network in the industry enables him to support companies in their global activities and adapt to the challenges of an ever-changing legal landscape.

Kai regularly speaks at international cannabis conferences on topics related to the German and European legal framework for cannabis, and publishes articles at Krautinvest, BusinessCann and in law journals.

Born in Löhne/Westf. in 1972, studied law at the Universities of Marburg, Adelaide (Australia), Cologne, legal assistant at the press center of the German Bundestag (2000-2002), worked for the Berlin District Court, for the Director of Public Prosecution in Berlin, for the Berlin Office for the Protection of the Constitution and the Hong Kong Consulate General.

With over 30 years in Global Supply Chain and Logistics, Yoram is an expert in the Pharmaceutical and Medical sectors.

He led Teva Pharmaceutical Industries’ Global Logistics Network for 14 years, managing a $300M budget and 150 employees.

In 2018, Mr. Eshel founded Cannabilog bringing his expertise from the Medical/Pharma world to the Cannabis industry.

Cannabilog, under Yoram’s leadership as a top expert in all aspects of logistics and supply chain worldwide, pioneered the international export/import of cannabis.

Cannabilog provides end-to-end supply chain solutions, achieving milestones such as delivering over 120,000 kg of cannabis in the past five years alone.

Daniel S. Hübner is the Senior Science Manager at the Cannabis Research Lab of Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and serves as spokesperson for the Drug Policy Working Group of the Berlin branch of Bündnis 90/Die Grünen. His longstanding interest in drug policy reform and the legislative process surrounding the German Cannabis Act (KCanG) led him to focus his scientific work on the design and implementation of cannabis model projects.

As an expert at the intersection of science, politics, and practice, he is currently involved in several interdisciplinary model project initiatives in Berlin, Hamburg, Hannover, Brandenburg, and Cologne. In this context, he works closely with municipalities, research institutions, civil society organizations, and private companies to develop viable concepts under § 2 (4) KCanG.

Emily Fisher is a breast cancer survivor and medical cannabis patient who is reshaping the future of cannabis healthcare. Her personal journey—finding life-changing relief through cannabis during cancer treatment—revealed both the plant’s powerful therapeutic potential and the urgent need for evidence-based guidance and broader patient access.

Motivated by this insight, Emily founded Leafwell, a pioneering healthtech and data company transforming how people access and understand medical cannabis. Under her leadership, Leafwell has served over 500,000 patients across 38 states and attracts more than 1 million monthly visitors to its education platform.

Emily has built one of the most trusted ecosystems in the industry—connecting licensed providers, dispensaries, and patients through personalized education, real-world outcomes data, and scalable, tech-enabled care. She is also advancing efforts to establish cannabis as a reimbursable, mainstream therapy grounded in science, safety, and compassion.

With a mission rooted in access, education, and research, Emily is shifting public perception, informing policy, and driving meaningful change in healthcare—proving that cannabis is not just a plant, but a vital tool for healing when treated with the rigor of modern medicine.

Božidar Radišic
Activist
• PEST (FIST) Human Rights Association
• Founder of Research Nature Institute
• Cannabis Info Point

Božidar Radišic has been a vocal cannabis activist for almost two decades, he is the president of FIST – human rights association, a member of IACM – International Association for Cannabinoid Medicines and founder of the Research Nature institute in Ljubljana (http://www.researchnature.com/).

Thusfar, Božidar has organized seven international scientific conferences aimed at demystifying cannabis (http://demystifyingcannabis.org/gallery).
The 6th conference held in Ljubljana in 2019 was also the first conference of the kind to be part of the licensed training program of the Medical Chamber of Slovenia and the Chamber of Nursing and Midwifery Services of Slovenia.

He regulary lectures and participates at cannabis-related seminars and other events in Slovenia and abroad. He is known as a tireless activist and medical cannabis advocate in Slovenia, EU and the Western Balkans.

The RN Institute monitors the quality of cannabis products and to that aim established its own laboratory providing HPLC and GC/MS analysis.
As a result, it has gained a deep insight into cannabis use among patients and the quality of products on the market.

Margaret Brodie has been instrumental in building Rubicon Organics since it was founded in 2015. She began her tenure as the CFO of the Company, was was appointed Interim CEO January 2023 and CEO February 2024. Under her leadership in 2023 Rubicon was awarded the prestigious KIND Awards of “Cannabis Company of the Year” and “People’s Choice Best Weed,” and produced two of the top three most popular brands as recommended by Canadian Budtenders in a third-party evaluation. She has over 20 years of experience in finance and executive leadership, of which 10 were spent with KMPG working in the UK and Canada for global beverage and global mining companies. Ms. Brodie has also held numerous corporate development and CFO roles for listed companies.

Charlie Wang, Ph. D., Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Cannvital NV LLC, a leading provider and manufacturer of high quality and premium CBD ingredient in the United States. Dr. Wang has close to 30 years of professional experience as executive management team member in various industries including indoor farming, LED, renewable energy, semiconductor, and fiber optic communications.

Visionary entrepreneur and political activist, Alex Rogers, is the founder and CEO of multiple thriving ancillary cannabis businesses. Cutting his teeth as an activist in the early nineties under the tutelage of Jack Herer, Alex has a deep proprietary knowledge of the emerging global cannabis industry. He has played a key role in professionalizing and mainstreaming the cannabis industry, building one of the United States’ most popular medical cannabis clinics and the first ever to advertise medical cannabis on network TV in the U.S.

Living in five different countries throughout his life, and able to communicate in all respective languages, Alex considers himself an international citizen, thusly spawning the International Cannabis Business Conference (ICBC). The ICBC was the first cannabis business conference in the world to have multiple dates set in multiple countries on multiple continents and is the leading conference series in Europe. A Magna Cum Laude graduate majoring in Political Science, Rogers has used his knowledge of law and politics to push cannabis policy forward all over the world.

Mr. Anand has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the global pharmaceutical and cannabis industries. He is a public speaker and is regularly engaged with Canadian and International media on all subjects related to the Cannabis industry. Mr. Anand holds a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) and Management from Vancouver Island University. He is a recognized thought leader, subject matter expert and social media influencer. He brings 15 years of leadership experience in the health, charitable/non-profit, and private sectors both in North America as well as Europe and Asia.

Within the global cannabis sector, Mr. Anand has worked with senior government officials, politicians, policy makers, health professional organizations, clinical practitioners, educators, investor, patients as well as producers. He has also served on the boards of various
pharmaceutical associations across Canada, the United States and Europe.

Currently, Mr. Anand serves on a variety of boards within the international cannabis space which include not for profit, advocacy, and patient driven organizations.

Prominent positions, Mr. Anand has previously held in the Cannabis industry include:

• Founder & C.E.O of Materia Ventures, Canada, Germany, United Kingdom, and Malta.
• Independent Director – Board of Directors of The Valens Company (NASDAQ: VLNS), Canada.
• Vice President of Business Development and Government Relations at Deloitte, Canada.
• Vice President for HEXO Cannabis (A Health Canada License Holder), Canada and Malta.
• Adjunct Professor at Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU). At KPU, Mr. Anand wrote, and taught Canada’s first and only Cannabis course titled ‘Cannabis Professional Series’ taught via an online module. Canada.
• Executive Director for the Canadian National Medical Marijuana Association (CNMMA). The CNMMA was the first and only industry association that factored in all facets of the nascent Cannabis industry in Canada.

Henry is a cannabis social club pioneer in Germany and founder of the Cannabis Socialclub of Hannover from 2016. He is the developer of a patented Cannabis flower harvester with his company Hemp Harvesting Technology. Henry is also member of the board at the German Cannabis Business Association (BvCW) and coordinator at the Federal Association of Cannabis Cultivating Clubs (BCAv).

Labcradle.com is a laboratory equipment dealer and service center based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
I have founded Labcradle in 2017.

We are a Canadian supplier of laboratory equipment and specialize in serving the cannabis industry, licensed by Health Canada for cannabis research and development, particularly in the field of concentrates.

My journey into cannabis extraction began in 2016, about two years before the legalization of cannabis in Canada. While supplying laboratory equipment, I noticed a growing demand from customers purchasing specialized equipment for cannabis extraction. This led me to become one of the first suppliers to support research into cannabis concentrates. Since then, my business has grown significantly, and in 2019, I have built my own research and development laboratory, licensed by Health Canada.

Over the years, I have gained extensive expertise in cannabis concentrates, including their components, extraction methods, solvent recovery, filtration, product grades, and applications. I constantly participate in industry discussions and market analysis related to various cannabis products and specifically concentrates. My expertise is related, but not limited to:

1. Cannabis Distillate, it’s derivatives and uses
2. Shatter and byproducts
3. Live Resin and it’s variations
4. THC/THCA Diamonds

Labcradle under my leadership have supported multiple cannabis startups, helping many succeed, though some faced challenges during the overproduction crisis of 2020–2021.

Today, we continue to consult both new entrants and established cannabis businesses, providing guidance on equipment selection, processes, technology, and product utilization.

In addition, we offer specialized extraction training for employees of cannabis-related businesses and newcomers to the industry.

Jonathan Havens is the managing partner of the Baltimore office and co-chair of both the Cannabis Law Practice and the Food, Beverage & Agribusiness Practice at Saul Ewing LLP. He counsels state cannabis license applicants and awardees, ancillary service and product providers, investors, management companies, and various other entities that are affected by federal and state cannabis laws. In addition to his cannabis law practice, Jonathan maintains an active food and beverage practice, particularly with regard to cannabidiol (CBD) products, in which he counsels manufacturers, importers, distributors, and retailers of conventional foods, dietary supplements, and beverages on product development, claim substantiation, labeling, promotion, registration, reporting, and recall issues to ensure compliance with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and state and local requirements.

Since 2019, Chambers USA has recognized Jonathan as one of America’s leading lawyers in cannabis law. In 2021, Law360 selected Jonathan as a cannabis law rising star, making him one of only five attorneys nationwide to receive that honor. He is regularly interviewed by mainstream and trade press outlets, alike, and has been quoted by or authored pieces for The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, Reuters, CNBC, WIRED, MarketWatch, Engadget, Law360, High Times Magazine, and Marijuana Business Daily, among others. Jonathan currently serves on Law360’s Cannabis Editorial Advisory Board and the Food and Drug Law Institute’s Board of Directors.

Before entering private practice, Jonathan served as a regulatory counsel with FDA, where he focused on compliance and enforcement related to promotion, advertising, and labeling. Prior to law school, Jonathan served as a legislative aide in both the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives.

Applegarth is the Founding Chair of the Cannabis Travel Association International (CTAI) and co-authored the first-ever cannabis travel audience research in the United States. Applegarth leads the Cannabis and Hemp Task Force for Destinations International, the world’s largest association of destination organizations with over 700 member orgs and more than 7,500 destination professionals from 26 countries and territories around the world.

Applegarth created and launched the California State Fair Cannabis Awards & Exhibit, the first-ever state sanctioned program of its kind. Applegarth’s work has been recognized by the Clio Awards, the Visit California Poppy Awards, US Travel ESTO Awards, Conde Nast Bright Ideas, and the International Federation of Fairs and Expos Awards.

Applegarth Strategies offers consulting and marketing services for destinations and brands. Applegarth Strategies specializes in destination stewardship and visitor economy strategies that reach the cannabis travel audience. Learn more at www.brianapplegarth.com

Tanner Stewart is the CEO of Stewart Farms, a company on a mission to revolutionize wellness by replacing opioids, benzodiazepines, and steroidal creams with safe, effective, and cannabinoid-based products.

Founded in 2018, Stewart Farms reflects Tanner’s deep passion for health, wellness, and sustainable farming. The company’s innovative product line—including cannabinoid-infused bath bombs, pain-relieving creams, and skin relief balms—helps Canadians across the country find natural relief and relaxation.

A dedicated advocate for sustainability, Tanner believes that agricultural and manufacturing practices are critical to individual wellness and the planet’s future. With nearly a decade of experience in the vertical farming, aquaponics, and regenerative farming industries, he has been at the forefront of promoting sustainable solutions for food production. His commitment to environmental stewardship also led him to become an executive producer of The Need To GROW, an award-winning documentary that highlights the vital role of living soil in sustaining life on Earth.

Tanner’s work is driven by his vision of a healthier world where nature and innovation come together to transform lives and secure a sustainable future.

Eidan Havas is the founder of The Entourage Effect, Australia’s leading wholesaler of medicinal cannabis products and a rapidly growing company. He is also the founder of MiDispensary and MiPharmacy, a speciality medicinal cannabis clinic and Pharmacy.

With a background in criminal law, Havas transitioned into the cannabis industry after his personal journey with mental health led him to explore the therapeutic benefits of cannabis – prioritising a patient first approach for both companies, which has contributed immensely to the rapidly developing Australian medicinal cannabis market.

Founded in 2022, The Entourage Effect has expanded its operations to include multiple wholesale and distribution centres, which has seen significant growth in recent years. The company is also behind MiDispensary, one of the first specialty cannabis clinics in New South Wales, Australia that provides personalized cannabis treatment, complete with an onsite MiPharmacy that dispenses tailored medications directly to patients.

Havas has been a vocal advocate for the medical use of cannabis and works to challenge stigma, promote regulatory reform, and improve patient access to high-quality treatments. Recently named in the Australian Financial Review’s 2024 Fast Starters list, Havas continues to lead the charge in reshaping Australia’s medicinal cannabis landscape.

Dean Arbit is a 25-year veteran of the media and cannabis industries, with a proven track record of building and successfully exiting multiple companies. From his base on California’s central coast, he currently serves as CEO of two pioneering firms he co-founded.

Since its launch in 2018, Dean has served as CEO of San Francisco based bud.com, a leading online retailer and manufacturer, shipping hemp derived products, seeds, smoke accessories and apparel, direct-to-consumers throughout the US. Dean also heads Wagner Dimas Ag Tech, an innovative hardware manufacturer serving large format cannabis and hemp cultivators. WD has developed and patented elegant platforms for flower processing and high volume preroll production, which are utilized by many of the largest co-packers and brands in North America, including major American MSOs and Canadian Public Companies- all proudly manufactured all in Moss Landing, California.

A proud father to two amazing sons, Levi and Vince (his eldest fittingly born on 4/20), Dean splits his time between San Francisco and Santa Cruz.

Jürgen Bickel is the Managing Director and co-founder of STORZ & BICKEL, a manufacturer of high-quality medical vaporizers based in Tuttlingen, Germany. The brand’s most famous device, the VOLCANO, was the first medically certified cannabis vaporizer worldwide and remains the gold standard among physicians, researchers, and consumers.

Jürgen Bickel holds a degree in civil engineering and, prior to starting at STORZ & BICKEL, managed a development aid project for drinking water supply in Peru for 5 years. His experience in planning and organizing large-scale projects was of great benefit to him as Managing Director of STORZ & BICKEL, and together with Markus Storz, he established the successful, globally operating brand.

Today, the company looks back on more than 24 years in the industry, remaining a pioneer and world market leader in the sector thanks to the visionary thinking of the founders.

Find out more about Jürgen Bickel on Linkedin and Instagram.

Alex joined MedReleaf in 2013 which was the beginning of his career in the medical cannabis industry. Alex was present at the outset of the Canadian Medical Cannabis Industry Association (CMCIA) and during his subsequent tenure he served as committee chair and held the position of interim Executive Director. He has spoken to thousands of patients with various conditions and ailments such as PTSD and chronic pain.

Alex has worked with Veterans Affairs Canada on the coverage of cannabis and vaporizers and is a proponent of methods of ingestion other than smoking. He left MedReleaf at the start of 2017 and focused on cannabis education by creating a program called “Cannabis IQ” alongside MD Briefcase and a faculty of 5 Health Care Professionals. Most recently Alex was a founder and the Director of Partner Development/Education for Licensed producer Flowr out of Kelowna, British Columbia which he left to become an Equity partner at Hybrid Pharm – the first pharmacy where patients can walk out with their medical cannabis and Loosh brands a manufacturer of edibles.

Ricardo is a Director and head of Regulatory Solutions at Lawrence Stephens. His focus is on regulatory and compliance when it comes to cannabis-related businesses as well as the cryptoassets/blockchain industry. He is regularly instructed by global cannabis companies in either the CBD wellness markets or medicinal cannabis sector (CBPMs). 

These instructions range from advising on aspects of regulation in the UK, EU, Asia and beyond regarding the legality of vaping products (e-cigarettes and e-liquids); cosmetics; food products / supplements; and medicinal cannabis products.  Ricardo often advises clients looking to obtain a Home Office/MHRA licences in connection to operating a licenced medical cannabis business. Due to the nature of the above sector and the legal nuances involved, he regularly works closely with other legal departments such as corporate and commercial, employment, dispute resolution and intellectual property/image rights to ensure his clients benefit from a full suite of legal services specifically tailored to their immediate business needs and future objectives.

Ricardo’s previous in-house and international coverage makes him commercially incisive and instrumental to his clients when handling their legal and strategic requirements both in the UK and abroad, and regularly described by clients as a pragmatic, strategic and solution-focused business partner.

Ricardo also sits on the executive committee of the UK’s Cannabis Industry Council.

Benjamin cares for one thing: To secure high quality standards for cannabis products around the globe.

As Head of International Relations for Boveda (http://www.bovedainc.com), the global leader in 2-way humidity control, he is at the center of this movement, as water activity is one of the most dominant factors for product quality and safety.

Boveda, celebrating over 20 years in business, produces a very natural, reliable, stable, safe and at the same time inexpensive and disposable device that controls humidity levels by adding and removing water content within any type of closed container.

Prior to his engagement at Boveda, Benjamin’s career included a turn as a product and marketing specialist. Prior to his studies, he designed his first online projects in 1999 which lead him to different roles for big agencies and corporations alike. In 2006 he took a leap of faith and joined a friend in his freshly founded start-up and stayed in this ecosystem founding two companies of his own. The most recent one, Noblego, is today one of the leading European retailers of cigars and premium tobacco products.

Benjamin lectured at University level, wrote one of the best-selling cigar books in German language and acts as speaker and activist for consumer rights groups. He now takes his experiences from a highly regulated tobacco market to bring high-quality cannabis medicine to anyone who needs it, no matter location.

Benjamin holds a Diploma (B.Sc.Hons.) in Media Management from Wiesbaden University as well as a Masters in Marketing from renowned French Business School EDHEC. He speaks fluent German, English, French as well as Spanish at a respectable level. Benjamin lives in Berlin with his wife and son, spends too much money on sneakers and is still a die-hard supporter of his home football club Eintracht Frankfurt.

Daniel Haymann specialises in corporate and commercial law. Thanks to his extensive business experience, he has a good sense for new markets and understands the requirements for market launch and scale-up strategies. As an interdisciplinary and hands-on advisor, his focus is on investments, venture capital and financing transactions as well as regulatory issues in the healthcare and consumer goods sectors.

He has been advising investors, start-ups, and vertically integrated companies along the value chain, including on regulatory matters relating to THC, CBD and other cannabinoids and psychedelic compounds, on GMP and GDP standards, foodstuff and cosmetics regulations as well as authorization procedures before Swissmedic, the Swiss Agency for Therapeutic Products.

Daniel is the co-founder and co-chair of the European offshoot of the International Cannabis Bar Association (INCBA Europe). In addition, as a dual Swiss-Israeli citizen, he focuses on supporting clients with ties to Israel and strengthening the corresponding business relationships.

Prior to his career as a lawyer, Daniel spent over 10 years as a commodities trader for multinational corporations in senior management positions.

Since 2012, Dave Auger has owned and operated businesses in the Canadian cannabis industry. He has assisted with the setup and build-out of licensed cannabis facilities across North America. Dave is the founder Big League Genetics and has been providing quality genetics to license holders around the world since 2019. In 2023 he co-founded Big League Cultivation, a 20,000 ft supplying medical cannabis to Germany and Austrailia.

Dave has been successful in obtaining controlled substance licenses He was the founder of My Fungi Inc. and was successful in obtaining one of the first Controlled Substance Dealer’s Licenses for the production of organic psychedelic mushrooms.

David Sandelman is a serial inventor, problem solver, entrepreneur and the creator of Cannatrol Systems for cannabis postharvest processing. A veteran of new product development in the HVAC industry, he leads the production and engineering initiatives at Cannatrol’s parent company, VT Dry & Cure Technologies. David holds 19 patents—including two relating to the drying, curing and storage of cannabis—and among his early inventions is the two-wire digital clock thermostat that helped consumers address the energy crisis of the late 1970s. A firm believer that every problem has a solution, David has decades of experience building and designing industrial controls, and worked on new cooling technologies at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Electric Power Research Institute. He is also accomplished in production design, wireless and cellular communication, and electrical engineering.

David’s experience as a construction and industrial consultant includes oversight of all mechanical, electrical and plumbing design for a 20-story luxury highrise condominium project, and design services for food processing plants’ heating and cooling systems used for production equipment. As VP and CTO at Notifact Corporation, he conceptualized a low-cost wireless monitoring system—spun off from his time as VP of New Business Development at Heat-Timer Corporation—that created a new service category in the $80 billion HVAC industry.

In addition to his mechanical engineering career, as a side project David and his wife renovated and ran an inn and restaurant that won awards from Saveur and Food & Wine magazines and was named one of the “Top 10 Culinary Inns in America” by Fodors. David lives in Vermont and is schooled in whitewater guiding and rescue, as well as rock climbing instruction. When time permits, he also enjoys mountain biking, hiking and skiing.

Albert Eppinga, is a proud member of the Haida Nation’s Eagle Clan, and former founder and master grower of BC Cannabis Inc. Raised in Old Masset, British Columbia, Canada, Albert has spent over two decades perfecting his expertise in cannabis cultivation, earning the prestigious 2021 Canada’s Top Grower award.
With a mission to meet the demand for premium cannabis products while promoting Indigenous ownership, he established BC Cann, a Standard Processing Facility that is GPP-certified in Canada and will be EU-GMP certified early in the second quarter of 2025 for international markets. Albert is determined to become a trusted leader in the global cannabis industry.

Gašper Friškovec is a licensed attorney in Slovenia, and has over a decade of practice in advising clients and their legal representation on economic, regulatory, and political matters before the highest Slovenian and international courts. He is a graduate of the Faculty of Law at the University of Ljubljana, where he is also earning his doctorate while specializing in administrative law. His experience has given him a unique perspective on public policy and law within both Slovenia and the EU. Gasper is able to work adeptly within a variety of regulatory frameworks. He brings a pragmatic and disruptive approach to crafting innovative solutions for the complex challenges facing businesses in this emerging industry.

Barry Laxer is the founder and President of Cielo Verde, one of Canada’s leading cannabis producers. With a visionary approach and a steadfast commitment to excellence, Barry has been instrumental in driving the company’s growth to position it as a global player in the international cannabis industry.

Under his leadership, Cielo Verde has expanded its operations beyond the Canadian market, successfully establishing export channels to international markets. This strategic expansion has not only diversified the company’s revenue streams but also solidified its reputation as a trusted supplier of high-quality cannabis products worldwide.

Barry Laxer brings over 35 years of experience in manufacturing, 8 years of cannabis experience and deep industry knowledge with a passion for innovation and sustainability.

Barry continues to champion advancements in cannabis cultivation and product development, ensuring his company stands at the forefront of the industry.

Since 2019 Sonny is one of the founders of Cultivators. Committed to grow your business in licensed cannabis and hydroponic lettuce. Growing these crops requires in-depth knowledge and expertise. Partner from the first business idea up to daily operations with our know how, people and network. He has been consulting growers for years on cannabis cultivation in countries where cannabis is legalized. His cultivation experience and expertise is strengthened as result of his involvement in trials at Wageningen University & other research institutions.

Not surprisingly, Sonny was ‘born’ in a greenhouse and holds a master’s degree in plant science from Wageningen University with greenhouse horticulture as his specialization. He understands the importance of working together with the pharmaceutical, horticultural & hobby industry in the cannabis sector. Through his experience in his extensive network he learned that cultivation expertise is a crucial factor to make growing facilities a success.

Johnny Green is a cannabis activist based in Oregon and started writing about cannabis reform in 2010. Johnny appeared in Netflix’s “Grass is Greener” cannabis documentary, was the High Times Freedom Fighter of the Month for May 2017, and currently serves as the Media and Content Director for the International Cannabis Business Conference.

Joining Rad Source Technologies in October 2018, George is an accomplished Senior Sales & Marketing Operations Executive with strong business skills, international and multi-industry experience in driving results, enabling organizational growth and transforming efficiency. He is a results oriented, innovative and performance-driven leader with over 25 years of experience managing sales and leading sales/marketing operations for Fortune 500 companies in global markets.

George holds the responsibility for all Revenue, Sales, Service and Marketing objectives for Rad Source Technologies and has previously worked in progressive roles with companies such as Stryker, Mako, Nortel, and AT&T. With his wealth of knowledge and experience George has become a valuable contributor to the overall growth and standardization of Rad Source business practices.

Bubba Nicholson, Procurement & Market Specialist is former Vice President of Consumer Brands and Ethos at Aurora Cannabis and previously Thrive Cannabis (Graybeard) Pre acquisition in 2022. Before his tenure at Thrive, Bubba was President of Hello Cannabis, a clinic-based concierge service that connected the dots between Patients, Physicians and Licensed Producers in the Canadian Cannabis Landscape pre-legalization.

Previous to his entrance into the Cannabis landscape Mr. Nicholson was an Integral part of building the U.S. Movember Movement based out of Los Angeles, California. A movement that has raised well over 1 billion donor dollars since its inception. As director of community in the movement’s infancy Bubba leaned on is 20+ years in Alch Bev and experiential marketing to help build a grassroots movement across the US. Through his unconventional approach to humanizing the sales process & hands on approach he was able to help propel the campaign’s growth astronomically in the U.S. market.

Ziel is a pioneer in the application of radio frequency, a non-ionizing thermal solution, to reduce microbial pathogens across a spectrum of agricultural and cannabis products. With more than a decade in the agricultural industry, Ziel is the number one choice of cannabis operators across North America and Europe seeking microbial regulatory compliance without using radiation.
With a diverse background in regulated markets, Arthur de Cordova is the CEO and Co-Founder of Ziel, responsible for the company’s strategic direction and global partnerships. He brings a global and multi-industry perspective to cannabis as a former Executive in the pharmaceutical, energy, and financial industries.

After working on Wall Street as an institutional trader with Paine Webber and Bear Stearns, he transitioned to the non-profit AmeriCares, where he led their pharmaceutical distribution activities across Eastern Europe. Arthur then relocated to Russia for six years as Country Manager for AstraZeneca, establishing its multinational pharmaceutical business. After returning to the U.S.A., he went on to executive sales roles in the renewable energy sector for over a decade including SunPower, Solyndra, and ClearEdge Power.

Arthur graduated from Georgetown University with a degree in Finance and Business Administration. He also studied at the Netherlands School of Business, Stichting Nijenrode, and the International Institute for Management Development in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Lance has spent years cultivating brands and telling stories, formerly in the mainstream digital media and marketing space prior to making the jump to the legal cannabis industry. Since a shift in late 2013, Lance has worked with several big-name bands in the cannabis sector. He has had a strong focus on marketing and business development, taking these brands global.

Lance more recently brought his varied knowledge and passion-first attitude to Grove Bags in 2022, where he’s been tasked with growing the company’s footprint with an eye toward moving into emerging markets. As a cancer survivor, and having grown up in Northern California, he has seen firsthand and embraced the benefits of cannabis, and how it can be an integral part of a healthy lifestyle.

Overview of Accomplishments

1. Played a pivotal role in discovering and publishing the compounds responsible for cannabis’s gassy aroma, contributing to the most-viewed publication in ACS Omega history.
2. Successfully patented the use of cannasulfurs in various product formulations.
3. Recipient of the prestigious Goldstein Award from CSU Pomona for exceptional research in cannabis aromas.

Bio
TJ Martin is a research scientist with over 13 years of experience, specializing in fundamental scientific research in emerging fields, cannabis science, alternative fuels, product development, and flavor creation. He earned his degree in Chemistry from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.

As VP of Research and Development at Abstrax, TJ has spearheaded the creation of over 500 commercialized products, co-authored peer-reviewed scientific publications, and secured patents for core Abstrax discoveries. His work has identified novel VOCs in cannabis and explored the implications of widely-used diluent products, solidifying Abstrax’s position at the forefront of cannabis science.

Eral Osmanoglou is a creative process engineer whose expertise bridges nutrition, health, and advanced biorefinery technologies.

He graduated from Wageningen University and has been pioneering innovations in biorefinery since 2011, with a specialized focus on medical cannabis processing since 2014.

He founded Becanex where, as Head of R&D, he has developed a standardized, scalable process for natural medical cannabis extracts that Becanex uses to create plant-identical extracts with maximum entourage effect.

His approach emphasizes consistency and preserving the natural properties of the cannabis plant, ensuring the highest level of safety and efficacy for patients.

He focuses with Becanex on providing extracts that are easy to use and highly effective, to improve patient quality of life.

Eral has consistently raised industry standards through innovative solutions tailored to meet diverse patient needs.

He continues to drive advancements in medical cannabis, fostering a future where natural extracts can reliably improve lives on a global scale.

15 years of experience in business innovation, specializing in the horticulture and cannabis industries.

Previously General Manager at Fluence and Head of Smart Farming at OSRAM, focusing on advanced horticultural lighting.

Background in sales, innovation, and business development, with experience at Deloitte, PMMG Group, and Langenscheidt Chief Executive Officer at CANNAVIGIA & Vigia AG MBA from Hochschule München with certifications in horticulture and management.

Michael Knodt is an expert on cannabis politics and cannabis culture across Europe. Born in North Germany, Michael has been living in Berlin since 1990. He initially studied history and journalism before receiving his certification as a carpenter. Since then, Michael has made regular visits to countries where cannabis is cultivated, such as Jamaica and Morocco. He has worked as a freelancer for Weedmaps, Vice Magazine Germany, Sensi Seeds and numerous German-language cannabis magazines since 2004.

From 2005 to 2013, Michael was the Editor-in-Chief of Germanys biggest cannabis periodical. He also is the face and presenter of the most popular program on cannabis prohibition and just launched a new channel called “DerMicha.” Aside from his journalistic work, Michael is a cannabis patient, activist, sought-after speaker on conferences and congresses, and a father of two.

Lorenz has covered the German and Swiss cannabis scene as a blogger since 2017. With a background in business informatics and horticultural sciences, he advises cannabis companies like CarbonActive or 380 nanometer on facility planning, financing, quality assurance, and branding.

Teddy Cabugos is Owner and President of Sunstone brands including the historic Sunstone Winery in the Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, California.
Sunstone Winery has provided the Santa Ynez Valley with organic vineyards and premium wines for over 30 years. After acquiring Sunstone in 2019, Cabugos transitioned the tasting-room experience from one dominated by an older demographic to a younger, more inclusive crowd, and the stagnant brand into the mainstream spotlight.

The Sunstone Estate is also home to the Valley’s famously photographed “Tuscan-
inspired” Sunstone Villa, a world-renown luxury wedding venue. Under Cabugos’ leadership, the Villa went from hidden treasure to a world-renown wedding venue and celebrity hotspot, featured on Netflix’s World Most Amazing Vacation Rentals and landing on the cover of People and Vogue Magazines.
In response to consumer shift away from alcohol, in 2023 Cabugos released a new alcohol-free, THC-infused beverage under the Sunstone brand: the SUNSTONE SPRITZ TM. The beverage immediately garnered nationwide consumer acclaim and recognition, earning accolades from reputable sources such as the L.A. Times and L.A. Spirits Awards.

Before wine and hemp, Cabugos served for over a decade as Vice President of Radical Studios, a Hollywood-based, multimedia studio specializing in IP creation, publishing and filmed entertainment for global audiences. The company focused on building strong and diversified licensing revenue for its intellectual properties in both domestic and international markets, in physical and digital publishing, feature films, television, merchandise, and music publishing.

Cabugos is a fourth generation Santa Barbaran. Today, Teddy is a dynamic presence in his local business community where he sits on the Board of the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce, is a member of local cannabis operator group Good Farmers Great Neighbors, and is a member of the Santa Barbara County Farmstay Committee. Teddy donates to countless philanthropies and nonprofits, and previously served the Board of One805 501(c)(3) organization supporting first responders. Teddy is actively involved with policy and legislative work in support of the cannabis and hemp industries at local, state and federal levels.

Cabugos is married to his wife and business partner, Djamila Cabugos, with whom he has three young sons, Theodore (7), Benicio (4), and Angelo (1).

Mr. Edwards has extensive experience in the Cannabis Industry, based out of Colorado, and operating throughout the United States, Uruguay, Canada, Columbia, Spain, Portugal, and South Africa; he has worked with some of the highest quality breeders, cultivators, manufactures, and extractors worldwide and has led numerous projects including facility designs, building renovations, facility decontaminations and sanitizations, process and procedure designs, as well as cultivar phenotyping and has built and managed teams throughout every aspect of the Cannabis industry.

Most recently Mr. Edwards oversaw the design, construction, staffing, and creation of the operating standards of a state-of-the-art cultivation facility in Wichita Kansas principally designed to produce high value alternate cannabinoid hemp for the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical markets.

As a biochemist and an engineer, Mr. Edwards brings a wealth of experience of to bear for his clients leveraging over 15 years’ experience in the cannabis industry, 10 years of experience in chemical extraction experience, and 8 years’ experience in bioremediation and decontamination as the result of a patented development within the sector.

Mr. Edwards currently leads Yofumo Technologies Science and Operations Departments as Chief Scientist and Vice President of the company; dividing his time between consulting, pursuing research projects, and personally overseeing the onboarding of new clients, Mr. Edwards constantly strives to deliver unparalleled service through hand in hand client interaction while continuously seeking to foster a greater understanding of the intricacies and nuances of all aspects of the cannabis industry.

Brian Casey is a seasoned entrepreneur, business strategist, and industry advisor with extensive experience in navigating cannabis markets from startup to growth stage. As Managing Partner at BASM Holdings, Brian leverages his expertise in market stabilization, business development, and mergers to help companies scale effectively in an evolving regulatory landscape.

With a strong track record of co-founding and advising companies across multiple markets, including California, Florida, New York, Michigan, Massachusetts, and New Jersey, Brian has been instrumental in guiding businesses through market fluctuations, access to capital, and strategic consolidation. Previously, he co-founded Headwaters and held leadership positions at Helios and ileftword entertainment, further demonstrating his ability to drive sustainable growth.

Brian provides expert insights on industry trends, supply and demand dynamics, and long-term business strategies. His focus is on helping companies stay nimble, increase margins, and proactively plan for market corrections, consolidation, and regulatory changes.

Ricardo Baca is a 20-year veteran journalist and cannabis futurist, widely respected in both modern media and drug-policy circles. He was appointed The Denver Post‘s first-ever cannabis editor in 2013 and founded news vertical The Cannabist, where he extensively covered the advent of the U.S. adult-use cannabis market and related issues around the world, as seen in the feature documentary Rolling Papers. 

Ricardo launched Grasslands: A Journalism-Minded Agency® in 2016 to work directly with business leaders in highly regulated industries, from cannabis and psychedelics to spirits and healthcare. In 2023, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis appointed Ricardo to the state’s first-ever Natural Medicine Advisory Board to contribute to policy development around the state’s eventual psychedelics framework.

Named one of Fortune‘s 7 Most Powerful People in America’s Marijuana Industry in 2016 and Marketer of the Year by AdCann in 2019, has received numerous accolades for his trailblazing work. In addition to his previous journalistic coverage of drug policy, cannabis business and culture, Ricardo  continues to host panel discussions at events nationwide and contribute columns for a number of top publications including Rolling Stone. He is also a sought-after thought leader in media, cultural events and podcasts, and has spoken on The Colbert Report, NPR’s All Things Considered,   TEDxBoulder, TEDxMarin and multiple years at SXSW.

One of the first employees at Zamnesia, Nick Avé is an ecommerce expert with vast experience in retail management, SEO strategy and customer service. His oversight of departments across the company is critical to its ongoing success in Europe and the United States. Nick is adept at keeping up with the constant changes in the cannabis and psychedelic markets, and developing the proper strategies to ensure that Zamnesia’s explosive growth is managed efficiently. Under his stewardship, the company’s extensive selection of cannabis seeds and consumable products, herbs and mushroom growing kits stays up to date, affordable and accessible to consumers. Nick also directs website updates, brand design and purchasing. He lives in Gemert, Netherlands, and enjoys fishing and being in nature whenever possible.

Dr. rer. medic. David Kim Tjung Surjo is a seasoned expert in drug development with over 20 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. He currently serves as the CEO of GOC Nexus GmbH and CuraNat UG, passionately driving transformation in the medical cannabis sector. Previously, he held key positions such as Chief Corporate Development Officer at Canify AG and CEO of Bavaria Weed GmbH. His extensive background encompasses classical drug development, regulatory af-fairs, and practical applications in the medical cannabis field.

Academic Background and Research

Dr. Surjo earned his PhD in Biology from the University of Cologne and holds a degree in Biology from the University of Hanover. His early research focused on neurodegeneration and associated changes in behavioral patterns and the use of narcotics, particularly the use of opioid-based treat-ments for premature infants, which sparked his later interest in medicinal cannabis.

Motivation and Vision

His motivation to transition into the medical cannabis field stems from a deep belief in its therapeu-tic potential and the urgent need for innovative solutions in patient care. With a robust foundation in Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and a comprehensive understanding of life sciences, Dr. Surjo adeptly navigates the regulatory landscape of medical cannabis.

Current Focus Areas

• Cold Plasma Decontamination: Dr. Surjo leads initiatives to establish a new method for the gentle sterilization of cannabis raw materials, ensuring that products retain the full spec-trum of plant components. This is crucial for achieving the entourage effect, where the combination of various cannabinoids and terpenes enhances therapeutic benefits.
• Structured Prescription Solutions: He advocates for the development of compliant solu-tions for the prescription of cannabis that meet future regulatory requirements. The goal is to place patients at the center of care with individualized therapies while simultaneously supporting pharmacies in enhancing patient care through in-house cannabis consultation and sales, thereby creating new business opportunities.
  

Engagement and Impact

Throughout his career, Dr. Surjo has been actively involved in business development, strategic partnerships, and M&A activities, significantly contributing to the growth and success of various organizations. He is passionate about fostering collaboration and advancing the industry through innovative research and strategic alliances.

Participation at ICBC Berlin

At ICBC Berlin, Dr. Surjo looks forward to sharing his insights on the future of medical cannabis, dis-cussing regulatory challenges, and exploring opportunities for growth and innovation in this trans-formative field.

20+ years experience of Business Development, Sales and Marketing. Founding a pharmaceutical company to trade and import medicinal cannabis to Germany. Matthias Fischer is a global business leader with over two decades of experience in in technology, real estate and healthcare. As Founder and Managing Director of canymed GmbH, Matthias has been instrumental in developing the company into a prominent player in the pharmaceutical sector, specializing in the distribution (AMG §52a / EU GDP) and development (AMG §13 / EU GMP) of medical cannabis products. canymed.com is a fully licensed pharmaceutical wholesaler and manufacturer for medical cannabis based in Leipzig, Germany. The company is recognized for its nationwide sales force certified under AMG §75, providing expert consultation services to physicians and pharmacies. Before founding canymed GmbH, Matthias held key executive positions in several renowned companies, e.g. as the COO of Simplifa GmbH, as the Director of Go-to-Market for Scout24 Group and various senior leadership roles at Vodafone Global & Germany.

Lukas Hurt is a Czech publisher, activist, and medical cannabis patient with over fifteen years of experience in the cannabis industry, focusing on human rights and medicinal uses. Holding university degrees in History and English Philology, he began his cannabis career in 2012 as a writer and translator for Czech magazine Legalizace. Over the years, Lukas has worked with a wide range of clients, including expo and conference organizers, patient associations, medical professionals, and academic institutions such as Palacký University in Olomouc, Mendel University, and St. Anne’s Faculty Hospital in Brno. In 2018, he became the editor-in-chief of Konopí, a print magazine dedicated to educating the public on medical cannabis, cannabis policies, and broader applications of the plant. This role brought him into even closer collaboration with healthcare professionals, patients, and policymakers. In 2023, Lukas became the manager of the Czech hemp and cannabis cluster CzecHemp, where he began actively lobbying for legislative improvements. He also established Families Against Prohibition, a citizen initiative advocating for cannabis prisoners and their families. In 2024, he co-founded the NGO Rational Regulation, dedicated to supporting cannabis reforms in Czechia and in the EU.

After years living in China, Lucas Trifiro-Jarzem returned to Montreal just before cannabis legalization to launch Good 2 Grow Agricultural Solutions. Starting with agricultural equipment sales across North America, Lucas’s focus on innovation, customer satisfaction, and industry expertise fueled rapid growth.

By late 2022, Lucas shifted the company’s focus to consumer packaging, offering custom, affordable solutions backed by exceptional service and competitive pricing. This expansion led to the creation of Resell Canna Equipment, a sister company specializing in high-quality used cannabis equipment, helping businesses save costs without compromising performance.

Driven by a passion for efficiency and transparency, Lucas designed user-friendly platforms that simplify buying, selling, and bidding—no exclusivity, hidden fees, or commissions. His commitment to quality and customer care continues to shape Good 2 Grow’s success in the evolving cannabis landscape.

1985-1988 Business School Haarlem
1988-1992 Hotel school The Hague
1992-1996 Film Academy Amsterdam
1996 – present General Manager Bulldog Hotel Amsterdam
2021 Board member business association Burgwallen/Red Light District
2024 Chairman of the Foundation ‘Nieuwmarkt neighborhood’

As an experienced VP of business development (with a demonstrated history in the packaging and print industry), Jesse was lassoed into the family business by print and packaging pioneer Rick Dixon. He subsequently fell in love with all things packaging. From development to account management, problem solving to supply chain planning, Jesse quickly excelled with a focus on client-centric service. Details are crucial. Everything revolves around clear communication.

For the past eight years, Dixon has led the strategic packaging division for GPA Global, with a hyper-focus to provide cannabis and wellness companies packaging solutions that complement the unique and organic products that define their brands. Jesse has successfully executed his vision to bring professionalism, clear lines of communication, and process-oriented service(s) to a community in North America deserving of quality supply chain partners. He is eager to take that experience and expand the same values, support, and value-added service across Europe.

Narkis Tessler is Chief of Strategy & Business Development at Medocann Group – a best-in-class indoor cannabis cultivation company with two signature brands – SEVEN & SOLO. Narkis is also active in the cannabis industry as a strategic advisor, conference speaker, mentor to the student-run cannabis entrepreneurship program at Israel’s Reichman University and former co-host of CannaCAST-IL, a podcast providing global exposure to Israel’s medical cannabis technologies and innovations.

Prior to her work in Cannabis, Narkis held executive positions in leading organizations and built numerous companies and P&L divisions, in retail, consumer goods, biotech technologies and medical services. Additionally, she has served on the boards of directors in both public and government companies in industries ranging from infrastructure to tourism to security systems.

Narkis is a member of the Israel Government Companies Authority pool of qualified directors. She holds an MBA from Tel Aviv University in Israel, and a BA from Emory University in the U.S.

Clint is a visionary leader and trailblazer in the cannabis industry, renowned for his passion and drive. As the former CEO of MMJ Canada, the largest medical cannabis dispensary chain in the country, he built an impressive legacy of success. Taking his expertise to international markets, Clint expanded his influence across Europe and beyond, further cementing his role as a global innovator. Today, Clint leads the charge with Charlie’s Cannabis Co. and Charlie’s Pineapple Reserve, assembling a world-class executive team poised to transform the Canadian cannabis landscape. His journey embodies ambition, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Scott Olin Schmidt is Executive Director of Emerald Village West Hollywood, the first city-sanctioned, cannabis-specific destination marketing organization. West Hollywood is home to the first cannabis cafe in the United States and was called “The Amsterdam of the Far West,” by the Los Angeles Times. Prior to joining the cannabis industry, Schmidt worked in government relations, public affairs and political campaign management, running local and statewide campaigns from New York to Hawaii. Schmidt has shared his expertise in cannabis hospitality and tourism as a speaker at the Cannabis Travel Association International, American Bar Association, Benzinga Market Focus and Los Angeles County Bar Association.

With a passion for the plant starting in his teens, the CEO of Leven Therapeutics, Andrew Baukham has been involved in all aspects of the industry in one form or another since those days of growing in the attic against his parents wishes. From growing craft in the fields and greenhouses, to growing an incredible network to move a vast amount of the plant globally with his brokerage Leven Therapeutics and the highly sought after qualification system Leven Approved. Andrew is also the mind behind the Leven Cannabis Magazine, a vibrant bi-monthly read that showcases the talents and ideas of the best the Cannabis industry has to offer, from a business growth mindset to strains of the month featuring the stories of how the miraculous plant shaped the lives of so many. You’ll often hear Andrew say “be the change you want to see in the industry” which combines his positive mindset with his inspiration of those who came before him. Together we can create history.

Since starting his first company at the age of 22, Raj has established himself as one of Canada’s foremost business strategists and dealmakers. He is the founder of High Tide and its subsidiary companies Valiant Distribution and Canna Cabana and is the co-founder of High Tide’s subsidiary, Famous Brandz.

Through organic growth and strategic acquisitions, Raj has grown High Tide from one small shop of 2 employees in 2009 into Canada’s largest cannabis retailer with over 190 locations and over 1,600 amazing team members and business interests spanning North America and Europe.

While committed to building a strong, profitable, and sustainable business, Raj also believes passionately that those who enjoy success hold a particular responsibility to give back. In that vein, he spearheaded the launch of High Tide’s CSR program, Rising Tide for Good which has supported many worthy causes both cannabis-related and otherwise. On a personal level, Raj has also been a long-time supporter of Operation Smile, an organization that works to deliver free, safe cleft surgery to children in need, saving them from a lifetime of pain and isolation.

John launched High North in 2016, initially partnering with dispensaries in Vancouver and Toronto to provide analytical insights for purchasing decisions and pricing strategies. In 2018, the company expanded into its current 16,000 sq. ft. GMP-certified facility in Toronto. Since then, High North has conducted over half a million cannabis tests and played a pivotal role in supporting Canada’s cannabis export industry, servicing more international markets than any other laboratory. Committed to the highest standards of quality, High North has earned multiple accreditations, including ISO 17025, a Drug Establishment License (DEL), and a Controlled Drug License, further enhancing the rigor and reliability of its testing. Recognized for its dedication to excellence and innovation, High North has been named Lab of the Year by the Canadian cannabis industry in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Prior to founding High North, John built a diverse career spanning the CPG, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, chocolate & candy, and pet food industries, holding key roles at Maple Leaf Foods, Johnson & Johnson, Mondelez, and Mars. He holds an undergraduate degree from Western University and an MBA from the Ivey Business School.

Ceo: Synbiotic SE;
Founder: Hempro International GmbH, Hemp Factory GmbH, MH medical hemp GmbH, Hanf Farm GmbH, HempConsult GmbH
President: European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA)
Vice-Chair: Federation of International Hemp Organizations (FIHO)

Daniel Kruse, a pioneer of the hemp industry since 1995, is CEO of SynBiotic SE and founder of Hempro International GmbH, Hemp Factory GmbH, MH medical hemp GmbH,
Hanf Farm GmbH and HempConsult GmbH, five of Europe`s leading hemp and cannabis companies. Kruse has decades of experience in hemp food production.

Since 2013, Kruse has served as a Board Member of the European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA) and since 2019 he is elected President. Kruse is also Vice-Chair of the newly established Federation of International Hemp Organizations (FIHO).

At the EIHA Kruse is particularly active in his field of knowledge of cannabinoids in foods. Already since 2002 he has been working on the topic of THC in food and on CBD since 2012. His cooperation with international experts and the advisory committee of EIHA combines the profound know-how from practice and science in the hemp and food industry. In course of this cooperation, various position papers and studies on THC and CBD in food have been drawn up and published.

Kruse started his career in the industrial hemp industry to realize his vision: the successful
combination of ecology and economy.

Chris Day is a highly sought-after consultant and strategic advisor to investors seeking to identify and capitalize on emerging global opportunities in the cannabis industry. As the co-founder of Project Evolve and the Global Cannabis Network Collective (GCNC), an exclusive network for C-suite executives, Chris is a recognized authority on global market trends, partnership-driven growth, and international business development in the cannabis sector.

With over two decades of experience in business management, marketing, and communications, Chris has a proven track record of building profitable ventures and guiding investors toward high-performing opportunities. His career includes leading the marketing and international relations efforts for MJBizCon, the world’s largest B2B cannabis conference, where he helped achieve record-breaking growth. He also served as CEO of Gateway Proven Strategies, a multinational consulting firm dedicated to fostering sustainable, responsible, and lucrative cannabis markets worldwide.

Under Chris’s leadership, GCNC has become a hub for deal flow, knowledge-sharing, and high-value business connectivity across the globe. His ability to identify untapped markets, mitigate risks, and align stakeholders for strategic success makes him an invaluable partner for investors aiming to maximize returns in the cannabis industry.

A graduate of Colorado State University, Chris is a dual resident of Colorado and Quintana Roo, Mexico. While his roots are in the United States, his global perspective stems from years of international travel and market exploration. Whether connecting investors to emerging opportunities or advising on high-impact ventures, Chris’s unique combination of expertise, vision, and passion for the cannabis ecosystem ensures measurable results for his clients.

Mike Torrey is part of the founding team and Chief Operating Officer of Vertosa, a California-based cannabis and hemp infusion technology company that creates industry-leading active ingredients for infused product makers. A former Certified Public Accountant with a passion for cannabis, Mike has expanded access to Vertosa’s technology throughout North America, continuously identifying key opportunities in the ever-changing and restrictive patchwork of state and federal cannabis regulations. He also led Vertosa’s successful entry into the booming hemp cannabinoid space. Passionate about efficiency, adaptability, and guiding his team through rapid change, Mike believes these qualities are key to survival and success for cannabis companies today.

With over 20 years of experience in the cannabis industry, Merlin is deeply passionate about cannabis culture. He has been instrumental in launching numerous Canadian recreational brands as well as international ones. As director of business development at Carbon Extracts his focus centers on B2B extracts for the Canadian domestic markets, as well as EU-GMP extracts and flower for emerging international medical markets.

Morris Beegle is the President of We Are For Better Alternatives (WAFBA), a company focused on education, advocacy, and business development in the hemp industry. A seasoned entrepreneur and industry leader, he engages global audiences through live events, podcasts, webinars, and media platforms.
Under the WAFBA umbrella, Beegle organizes hemp-focused events, including the NoCo Hemp Expo and the EIHA Conference, and collaborates globally through the Experience Hemp International platform. He also publishes Let’s Talk Hemp and oversees several hemp-based product brands, such as Silver Mountain Hemp Guitars, Tree Free Hemp Paper and Printing, and One Planet Hemp, a merchandise line that includes apparel, posters and accessories.

As the co-founder and president of Coast to Coast Consulting International, Mary is dedicated to advancing the Japanese CBD market through compliant and high-quality practices. As the chief clinical officer of US based company Canvas Therapeutics and founder of SMJ Consulting at the Advanced Integrative Medical Institute of Seattle (AIMS), Mary has harnessed her extensive knowledge of cannabinoid pharmacology and her deep understanding of regulatory landscapes to support companies looking to successfully navigate the complexities of product importation into Japan. With a passion for ensuring that CBD products meet the stringent quality assurance standards inherent in Japanese business practices, Mary has developed comprehensive strategies that prioritize compliance and ethical sourcing. Her work emphasizes the importance of adhering to local regulations while maintaining the integrity of the products being imported, thereby fostering trust and reliability among consumers and businesses alike.

Mary’s expertise extends beyond compliance; she is also an advocate for the practical application of cannabinoid science. She guides companies in formulating products that resonate with the Japanese market’s unique preferences and values, leveraging her in-depth knowledge of how different cannabinoids interact within the body. This dual focus on science and compliance allows her clients to create effective, market-ready products that align with consumer expectations. Under Mary’s leadership, Coast to Coast Consulting has become a trusted partner for businesses looking to enter the Japanese CBD industry, providing tailored solutions that facilitate smooth market entry. Her commitment to excellence and dedication to promoting best business practices have established her as a respected thought leader within the industry.

A Pioneer Leader in Thailand’s Cannabis Industry

Natcha is a trailblazer in Thailand’s rapidly evolving cannabis industry, having been at the forefront of the sector since its early stages include a board-member of the reputative Cannabis association THIPA. She witnessed firsthand the transition from a mere 20 farms to over 100 across the country, playing a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of legal cannabis in Thailand as well as working closely with the government. As a partner in the nation’s first cannabis agency, Natcha is deeply involved in providing comprehensive turnkey solutions, including consulting, construction, and creating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for new farms entering the market.

Natcha is a results-driven business leader with over 12 years of diverse experience spanning recruiting, sales, business development, corporate management, and marketing strategy. She has successfully founded three cannabis-focused corporate organizations and played a key role in building and scaling seven small businesses. Over the past two years, Natcha has helped cannabis business owners recruit and manage nearly 300 employees, further cementing her expertise in operations and workforce management. One of her most notable achievements includes a venture set to generate 300 million THB in annual revenue by the end of 2025. Natcha’s strategic vision and leadership have been critical in driving growth and innovation across various sectors, all while maintaining an unwavering commitment to integrity, quality, and excellence. She balances her professional success with being a dedicated mother, seamlessly integrating family commitments into her dynamic career.

With a unique background shaped by a military upbringing and international experiences, Natcha brings a disciplined, results-focused approach to everything she does. She combines a deep understanding of the global business landscape with a passion for the cannabis industry, where she focuses on ensuring sustainable growth, fostering strong partnerships, and delivering value to both clients and communities.

In her current role, Natcha is not only dedicated to the success of cannabis operations but also to fostering a culture of transparency, integrity, and awareness to erase the stigma of Cannabis for the Asian community. Her commitment extends beyond the plants themselves to the people behind them. She believes that the true formula for success in cannabis lies in blending passion, education, patience, and a steadfast commitment to quality. It’s a philosophy she upholds throughout the entire process—from cultivation to the final product.

Natcha’s mantra, Happy Plants, Happy Health (สมุนไพรที่ดีส่งผลต่อสุขภาพที่ดี), reflects her deep belief that a positive and ethical approach to cannabis cultivation translates into better outcomes for both the community and the industry. Her work continues to drive the cannabis industry forward, setting new standards of excellence and making a lasting impact in Thailand’s cannabis landscape.

Marijn Roersch van der Hoogte, Biologist from the Netherlands. Living in Berlin for more that 10 years. Active in the German Cannabis Industry since 2014, with primary focus on food and building materials. Working as a Consultant and Broker for Agriculture and Processing, Co-Founder of Hemp-Impact.com, Co-Founder and Vice-President of the German Cannabis Industry Association BvCW where he coordinates all Industrial Hemp related topics.

Sigfried is the CFO and Co-founder of Canxchange, He has 15 years of experience in financial markets. Prior to co-founding Canxchange, he worked until 2016 as a trader (EQF/FX) at the top tier European bank, BNP Paribas. He also held other trading positions at proprietary trading boutiques in London.

Founder of Kind Selections 2014; Co Founder of Cannabis Tolling Solutions 2022. Tim has been at the forefront of hydrocarbon extracts for over a decade. Tim’s formulations have won over 32 National and international awards to date. Currently focused on producing some of Canada’s top selling vape SKUS via CTS. Looking to expand the success Kind Selections and CTS have enjoyed in Canada to markets around the world.

Frederik is a specialized lawyer for media and copyright law and certified data protection officer, is the founder and partner of Nimrod Rechtsanwälte Berlin/Paris.

He specializes in copyright, data protection and pharmaceutical law. He has advised Canadian, MMR, and Israeli companies on their participation in cannabis tenders and has successfully applied for import, wholesale and manufacturing licenses for various clients. His current focus is on advising cannabis clubs on all matters relating to the formation of associations, software development, concepts for the prevention of addiction and the protection of minors and the implementation of legal requirements.In 2021, he co-organized the symposium “Le droit face au cannabis thérapeutique” at the University of LE MANS, founded the information portal and advises a large number of patients on the assumption of costs for medicinal cannabis as part of the German Hodgkin Study Group e.V. self-help group.

Quinn is the President of McIntyre Creek Cannabis Inc. (MCCI), overseeing a world-class, +30-acre outdoor cannabis operation that cultivates certified GACP and Organic BC cannabis. MCCI is recognized as a leader in outdoor cultivation servicing large volume domestic and export bulk flower sales by offering partners a diverse menu of packaged flower, pre-rolls, and high-quality extraction inputs.

With over a decade of experience in both medical and recreational cannabis, Quinn has deep passion for the medicinal plant and possesses a comprehensive understanding of how to best utilize the complete plant to achieve profitable commercial cannabis production and innovate best in class consumer goods.

Sebastien Beguerie is one of the European expert leader in the medical cannabis and CBD industry with now more than 10 years of experience in cannabis production, regulation, education, and advocacy. He is originated from Marseille, France, he did his MSc.degree in Plant Sciences at Wageningen University the Netherlands, sponsored by Bedrocan BV. In 2009, he co-founded the first national medical Cannabis French patient association called “Union Francophone pour les Cannabinoids en Médecine” (UFCM). Together with his association, he has been organizing in Strasbourg (France) for 8 years in a row the only scientific medical Cannabis conference in France. In 2011, he founded his brand Alpha-Cat in Europe, manufacturing and distributing cannabinoid test kits and CBD wellness products. In 2014 Sebastien has created the famous Kanavape in Europe to be the first CBD e-cigarette to be sell in Europe. And in 2020, Sebastien launched Golden Buds a new CBD brand mixing the Californian CBD innovation experience with the French luxury know-how to bring to the EU market, unique and premium CBD products.

Cyrus Hambaz is the founder and CEO of Canadian Clinical Cannabinoids, home to one of Canada’s largest and most reputable cannabis brands. With over 15 years of industry experience, from the legacy market to full legalization, Cyrus has been instrumental in shaping the Canadian cannabis landscape. Under his leadership, Canadian Clinical Cannabinoids has become Canada’s #1 most profitable privately held licensed producer, recognized for its commitment to innovation, quality, and brand excellence.

Since 2021, Cyrus has driven the company’s expansion across all cannabis categories, from edibles and vapes to premium flower, making it a leader in product development and market innovation across the country. The company’s portfolio includes The Loud Plug, an award-winning brand and one of Canada’s top 10 cannabis brands, known for its high-quality offerings and strong consumer loyalty. Beyond its in-house brands, Canadian Clinical Cannabinoids also supports emerging brands, leveraging its expertise in manufacturing and market strategy to help new players succeed.

With a focus on craftsmanship, consistency, and forward-thinking innovation, Cyrus continues to push boundaries, reinforcing Canada’s position as a global leader in cannabis legalization and industry advancement.

Ivan Ross is the Managing Partner at Diplomat Consulting. With 18 years at the Government of Canada, he is widely recognized as an industry expert in the field of health and health care systems. His experience in this sector dates back to his time with Health Canada when he helped develop and implement the Government of Canada’s position regarding several health care initiatives in strategic policy, health products and food, healthy environments and consumer safety, cannabis policy and federal/provincial relations.

Since that time he worked at Hill & Knowlton (H+K) Strategies where he supported clients in investor relations, communications, regulatory review, strategic partnerships, identification, and outreach related to health care market opportunities in other countries such as the United States, Europe, and Australia. His government affairs work traversed all orders of government – from federal and provincial advocacy to municipal engagement.

Between 2019 and 2021 Ivan Ross worked at Eve & Co. (a cannabis Licensed Holder) as the Vice President in charge of Government Relations and Business Development (with a focus on international markets) and led the company’s EU-GMP application and certification – at the time one of only 4 company’s to receive this designation.

In the summer of 2021 Ivan Ross began a new role as the Managing Partner at Diplomat Consulting.

Ivan Ross has also written several articles, appeared in the media (television, radio and print) and has been a guest speaker in Canada, The United States, Uruguay, Mexico, and Greece.

In 2007, Ivan Ross developed a course for graduate students in public policy/administration to teach them how to successfully develop and communicate complex public policy proposals with confidence. This course keeps him lecturing regularly at Carleton University, Concordia University, and Algonquin College.

Ivan Ross holds a B.A. (Hons.) in History from the University of Ottawa and an Maters in Public Administration from Carleton University. He is bilingual in English and French and works as a trained facilitator.

Matthew Don-Carolis boasts a 26-year legacy as a seasoned professional with global expertise spanning various verticals. His profound knowledge of the cannabis industry has been influential, dating back to his role as a designated grower in Canada since 2006.

Currently serving as the Vice President of Sales and Business Development at Segra International Corp., Matthew has consistently excelled. Recognizing the significance of a collaborative approach, he places a strong emphasis on propelling Segra International Corp. to become a global leader in the tissue culture nursery space.