The Ohio Cannabis Health Business Summit was held at the IX Center in Cleveland, Ohio, and it provided a unique opportunity for industry professionals, vertical operators, and cannabis enthusiasts to come together and explore the future of the cannabis industry in Ohio. While attendance was on the lighter side, the summit offered valuable insights, connections, and product showcases that highlighted the growing importance of Ohio in the national cannabis scene.
The Showroom Floor Was Packed with Value
The showroom floor at the IX Center was more intimate compared to larger cannabis events, but it was packed with exhibitors that offered essential products and services for the cannabis industry. From packaging to extraction equipment, seeds, soil, and hardware, attendees were able to explore a diverse range of businesses catering to every part of the cannabis supply chain.
While the showroom was modest, the exhibitors brought their best, and some of my favorites included:
- Grove Bags: Known for their advanced cannabis packaging solutions, Grove Bags once again showcased their innovative products designed to maintain the freshness, potency, and quality of cannabis. Their focus on sustainability, with eco-friendly and humidity-controlled packaging, made them a popular stop for industry professionals looking to preserve their product quality.
- Vert: A Colorado-based ancillary company that demonstrated their commitment to high-quality cannabis packaging, Vert’s booth was a standout. They showcased a variety of effective packaging tools and resources and cemented themselves as a go-to option for this service.
- Organic Garments: Specializing in eco-friendly cannabis apparel, Organic Garments made waves with their stylish and sustainable shows. Their focus on ethical production practices resonated with attendees, particularly those looking to support companies that align with their environmental values.
- Wana Brands: A leader in cannabis-infused edibles, Wana Brands delivered an impressive showcase of their product line, which includes fast-acting gummies that combine flavor with precision dosing. Their booth was constantly buzzing with attendees eager to try their delicious and effective products.
- Beneleaves: Based in Ohio, Beneleaves has become a local favorite for their premium cannabis products. Their wide range of offerings, from vapes to gummies to other products, caught the attention of attendees looking for innovative ways to deliver cannabis’s therapeutic benefits.
Day 1: Stronger Turnout and Networking Opportunities
The first day of the summit saw the highest level of activity, with a diverse crowd of attendees, including local operators, investors, and business professionals, filling the IX Center. While the event wasn’t packed, the manageable size of the crowd allowed for deeper conversations and better opportunities to build meaningful connections.
Networking was in full swing on Day 1, with many attendees eager to meet exhibitors and fellow industry members. Whether at the booths or in the lounge areas, the chance to engage with like-minded professionals led to some valuable exchanges. Exhibitors were able to take time with each potential partner or client, making the event feel more personal and conducive to serious business development.
Day 2: A More Relaxed but Productive Atmosphere
The second day of the Ohio Cannabis Health Business Summit was notably quieter than the first, but this allowed for a more relaxed atmosphere where exhibitors and attendees could dive deeper into their discussions. Those who stuck around for Day 2 found that the lighter traffic gave them the opportunity to ask detailed questions, explore products further, and get into one-on-one conversations with business leaders.
While the foot traffic was slower, exhibitors like Grove Bags, Wana Brands, and Beneleaves were still attracting attention from serious buyers and potential partners. The smaller crowds meant exhibitors could focus on quality interactions and provide a more tailored experience for each visitor.
Networking at Its Best
While the showroom floor was the hub of the summit, the real value for many attendees came through the networking opportunities that surrounded the event. From pre-show meetups to after-hours gatherings, the Ohio Cannabis Health Business Summit fostered an environment where deals could be discussed, partnerships explored, and connections strengthened.
The atmosphere was casual and collaborative, which allowed for more open conversations about the future of Ohio’s cannabis industry. Networking events like these are crucial in an emerging market, where everyone is looking for the right partners to grow with.
The Future of Ohio Cannabis
Although the Ohio Cannabis Health Business Summit was smaller in scale compared to larger national cannabis expos, its impact should not be underestimated. The quality of exhibitors, the focus on local operators, and the networking opportunities made it clear that Ohio’s cannabis industry is rapidly evolving.
Companies like Grove Bags, Vert, Organic Garments, Wana Brands, and Beneleaves are leading the charge in this region, and their presence at the summit underscored their commitment to advancing Ohio’s cannabis market. As the state continues to expand its medical cannabis program and looks toward potential adult-use legalization, events like this one will be critical in shaping the future of the industry.
For those who attended, the Ohio Cannabis Health Business Summit provided an invaluable platform for growth, learning, and connection, setting the stage for the next chapter in Ohio’s cannabis journey.
Stay tuned for more event recaps!
