Top Cannabis Networking Events to Boost Your Career
If you’re serious about turning your love for cannabis into a full-blown career (or leveling up in the one you’ve already started), there’s one thing you can’t ignore: cannabis networking events.
The Importance of Networking in the Cannabis Industry
In the rapidly evolving cannabis industry, networking is crucial for both newcomers and seasoned professionals. Building a robust network can open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and invaluable insights that can propel your career forward. The industry is built on relationships, and knowing the right people can make a significant difference in your professional journey.
Networking not only helps you stay updated with industry trends and regulations but also provides a platform to share knowledge and experiences. It enables you to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion and can offer support and guidance. Whether you’re looking to start a career, switch roles, or advance in your current position, effective networking is a key strategy for success.
Must-Attend Cannabis Conferences and Expos
Cannabis networking events are among the best places to meet industry leaders and influencers. These events bring together professionals from all corners of the industry, offering a unique opportunity to learn from experts, discover new products, and forge meaningful connections.
NECANN (New England Cannabis Convention) – Multiple U.S. Cities
When: Throughout the year
Why Go:
Whether you’re in Maryland, New York, or Miami, NECANN events are packed with local and regional cannabis players. These conventions are perfect for making connections in your specific state market, especially if you’re just starting out.
Networking Tip:
Look out for companies you want to learn more about or specific speakers you’d like to connect with. These events are primarily B2B conferences, so you’ll want to research who will be there in advance so you can have a plan of attack.
CannMed 25 Innovation and Investment Summit – Puerto Rico
When: June 17-20
Why Go:
CannMed is a unique opportunity for the world’s top researchers, innovators, and investors to share novel findings, announce new technologies, and forge lasting connections. Here you can enhance your understanding of the therapeutic potential of the cannabis plant and learn from those who are driving the industry forward.
Networking Tip:
Bring your A-game. This crowd is full of highly intelligent industry professionals, and they’re serious about cannabis science and business. Come with questions, business cards, and your wish list of research initatives.
National Cannabis Festival – Washington D.C.
When: July 18-19, 2025
Why Go:
Part celebration, part activism, part industry meetup—the National Cannabis Festival blends live music, education, advocacy, and networking all into one vibrant weekend. It’s a unique space where cannabis professionals, enthusiasts, policymakers, and brands come together in the heart of the nation’s capital.
Networking Tip:
Don’t miss the National Cannabis Policy Summit or the 420 Week events tied to the festival—these are prime spots to meet advocates, educators, and potential employers who are shaping the future of cannabis.
Women in Cannabis Expo – Reno, NV
When: August 29, 2025
Why Go:
Empowering and inclusive, the Women in Cannabis Expo offers a supportive environment to connect, share, and grow—especially for women and non-binary professionals in cannabis. From entrepreneurs to educators, everyone’s welcome.
Networking Tip:
Follow up. Don’t let those great convos fade away—connect on LinkedIn and keep the relationship going.
MJBizCon – Las Vegas, NV
When: December 2-5, 2025
Why Go:
This is the Super Bowl of cannabis industry events. MJBizCon brings together thousands of cannabis professionals from all corners of the industry—growers, manufacturers, investors, retailers, and yes, job seekers. If you’re looking to rub elbows with industry leaders or pitch your idea to potential backers, MJBizCon is the place to be.
Networking Tip:
Don’t just stick to the expo floor! Attend breakout sessions, after-parties, and workshops. That’s where the real connections are made.
Honorable Mentions
- NCIA Cannabis Business Summit – Great for policy and advocacy networking.
- CannaOne BizCon – Ideal for entrepreneurs and small biz owners.
- Hall of Flowers – Only open to exhibiting brands, licensed retail buyers, tightly vetted entrepreneurs, investors, thought-leaders and media.
Attending these conferences allows you to participate in panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions. You’ll gain insights into the latest developments, regulatory changes, and market trends. Moreover, these events often feature expo floors where you can explore innovative products and services that are shaping the future of the cannabis industry.
Exclusive Cannabis Industry Meetups and Workshops
Smaller, more specialized meetups and workshops offer a more intimate setting for networking. These events are often focused on specific aspects of the cannabis industry, such as cultivation, extraction, or retail. Examples of such gatherings include local cannabis clubs, industry association meetings, and specialized workshops hosted by industry experts.
Participating in these exclusive events provides a chance to engage in deeper conversations and develop stronger relationships with peers and mentors. These settings are ideal for exchanging ideas, discussing challenges, and collaborating on solutions. Additionally, workshops often provide hands-on learning experiences, enhancing your skills and knowledge in specific areas of the industry.
Virtual Cannabis Networking Opportunities
In today’s digital age, virtual networking has become an essential tool for connecting with professionals worldwide. Virtual cannabis networking events like webinars, and online forums offer flexible and accessible networking opportunities. Platforms like LinkedIn and cannabis-specific online communities such as Leafwire and NCIA are excellent places to start.
Virtual networking allows you to engage with industry leaders and peers without geographical constraints. You can participate in online discussions, attend virtual conferences, and join webinars hosted by experts. These platforms also enable you to share your insights, showcase your expertise, and stay connected with the latest industry trends.
Tips for Maximizing Your Experience at Cannabis Networking Events
To make the most of your networking efforts, it’s essential to approach each opportunity with a clear strategy. Start by setting specific goals for what you want to achieve, whether it’s finding a mentor, discovering job opportunities, or learning about a particular aspect of the industry.
Be proactive in engaging with others—introduce yourself, ask questions, and share your experiences. Always follow up with new contacts after events to maintain and strengthen relationships. Additionally, staying active in online communities and regularly participating in industry events will help you stay visible and relevant in the cannabis community.
So go on, put yourself out there. Your dream cannabis career might just be one handshake away.