Speaker & Brand Cheat Sheet
Itinerary:
Day 1 Aug 16th
04:30 PM Check-In
05:00 PM Opening Remarks
05:00 PM Course: Fundamentals of Brand Building
06:30 PM Panel: Implementing Technology Solutions in Cannabis Operations
08:00 PM End
Day 2 Aug 17th
09:30 AM Check-In & Opening Remarks
10:00 AM Course: Security and Regulatory Compliance
11:30 AM Break
12:00 PM Panel: From Start to Launch to Success
01:00 PM Panel: How to Wow Your Investors
02:00 PM Closing Remarks to Dispensary Showroom: Explaining the Dispensary Showroom
05:00 PM End
05:30 PM Social/Happy Hour at Ellicott Distilling Co
Course Summary:
Title: "Empowering Cannabis Entrepreneurs: Strategies for Success"
Summary: Join us for "Empowering Cannabis Entrepreneurs: Strategies for Success," an extensive two-day workshop series designed to arm cannabis professionals with critical skills and knowledge for success in Maryland's dynamic market. This event features a series of workshops and panels led by industry experts, focusing on everything from brand development and technology implementation to regulatory compliance and investor engagement.
Course Highlights:
Day 1: Branding and Technology Solutions
Opening Remarks: Flow & Welcome Weekend overview and motivational words from Rahsaan Peak of the Office of Social Equity.
Speakers: Carlo, Miranda, Rahsaan
Course: Fundamentals of Brand Building Delve into the essentials of brand development. This session covers identifying core brand values, understanding your target audience, and creating a distinctive brand identity that stands out in the competitive cannabis industry.
Instructors: Carlo
Panel: Implementing Technology Solutions in Cannabis Operations Explore the latest technological advancements essential for optimizing cannabis operations. This panel discusses the integration of cutting-edge technologies in cultivation, processing, and sales to enhance efficiency and compliance.
Speakers: Tommy (Moderator), Colin, Kal, Munir, Andrew
Day 2: Compliance and Investor Engagement
Course: Security and Regulatory Compliance Gain insights into the regulatory challenges specific to the cannabis industry. This workshop provides strategies for navigating complex regulations and implementing robust security measures to ensure full compliance and operational security.
Instructors: Adam (Lead), Tim, Aaron
Panel: From Start to Launch to Success Receive valuable lessons from experienced entrepreneurs on navigating the journey from a startup to a successful business within the cannabis sector.
Speakers: Precious (Moderator), Megan, Kim,
Panel: How to Wow Your Investors Learn effective strategies for engaging and securing investors. This panel focuses on crafting compelling narratives, presenting clear business models, and communicating value propositions that attract and retain investor interest.
Speakers: Carlo(Moderator), Toby, Tommy, Amran, Hope
Closing Remarks: Explaining the Dispensary Showroom Learn the best way to navigate the showroom, how to connect with peers and suppliers, guest introductions, SunMed Tour Announcement, and a shout-out from The MDDA & The Dispensary.
Speakers: Chris, Miranda, Kim
*** You can find the class details further down the page if needed***
Contact
Carlo
carlo@hikuya.com
240-994-6826
Colin
cfraser@uplingapp.com
707-207-1938
The Dispensary Showroom
We will utilize the strengths of the box and display style of the showroom to make a better flow for the audience and showcase the strengths of each organization. This style should make it easier for attendees to visit each showcase piece while gaining a greater understanding of each section. Each attendee should be able to take away three new facts from each station.
Set Up Times:
15th Thursday, 4PM-7PM
16th Friday, 3PM-4PM
17th Saturday, 8AM-9AM
Breakdown:
18th Sunday, 9A-12P
Location
Address
CCBC Catonsville, Center for the Arts,800 S Rolling Road, Catonsville, 21228
Parking
Parking is free. Lots 2 and 3 are the closest to the Math Sciences Building and Center for the Arts building. Please follow the campus signs directing you to the event parking.
Entrance & Building
Check-in, Courses, and panels will be held in the Math & Sciences Building.
The Dispensary Showroom is conveniently located in the Lounge at the Center for the Arts.
The buildings and their main entrances are across from each other, and share the same parking lots.
Free
Admission is free. These resources are provided to support entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry who are looking to accelerate the success of their licenses.
Snacks & Lunch
Snacks and lunch will be provided on August 17th, the second day of courses.
Class Details Day 1:
Day 1: Branding and Technology Solutions
Opening Remarks:
Program Overview: What and who to expect and key takeaways. Schedule overview and digital resource reminder.
Motivation Words: Reminder of challenges and their commitment to themselves, the future, and the people who believe in them. To look forward to new opportunities and live a mission-based life.
Class 1:
Title: "Fundamentals of Brand Building"
Summary: This workshop introduces participants to the essentials of brand development in the cannabis industry. It covers defining core brand values, identifying target audiences, and creating a distinctive brand identity and voice.
Desired Outcomes:
Core Brand Understanding: Participants will learn how to articulate and embody their brand's core values and mission in all business activities.
Audience Insight: Develop techniques to deeply understand and engage the target audience effectively.
Brand Identity Creation: Gain skills to create a unique brand identity that visually and verbally distinguishes their brand in the marketplace.
Panel:
Title: "Implementing Technology Solutions in Cannabis Operations"
Summary: This panel explores innovative technological solutions that can enhance efficiency and compliance in cannabis operations, covering technologies, such as POS systems, and CRM systems.
Desired Outcomes:
Technology Integration: Understand how to incorporate advanced technological tools to optimize the cannabis sales processes.
System Optimization: Learn about the latest in POS and inventory management systems that comply with regulatory standards.
Customer Engagement: Discover CRM strategies that enhance customer satisfaction and retention.
Day 2: Compliance and Investor Engagement
Class 2:
Title: "Security and Regulatory Compliance"
Summary: Focuses on the essential security and compliance requirements for cannabis businesses. This workshop guides participants through the development of strategies to ensure their operations are secure and compliant with current regulations.
Desired Outcomes:
Regulatory Mastery: Master the necessary knowledge to navigate complex cannabis laws and regulations.
Compliance Strategies: Implement robust compliance systems to prevent legal issues.
Security Measures: Develop effective security protocols that protect both data and physical resources.
Panel:
Title: "From Start to Launch to Success"
Summary: A comprehensive overview of the journey of successful cannabis entrepreneurs, offering insights into the challenges and strategies of starting and growing a business in this industry.
Desired Outcomes:
Entrepreneurial Insights: Gain firsthand knowledge from successful business owners about the key factors that contribute to success.
Strategic Planning: Learn how to plan strategically for business growth and sustainability.
Success: Success will come in many forms and milestones. What are the signals and how to remain optimistic?
Panel:
Title: "How to Wow Your Investors"
Summary: This panel session covers effective techniques for engaging and maintaining investor interest, from initial contact through ongoing communication.
Desired Outcomes:
Investor Relationships: Learn how to build and maintain strong relationships with investors.
Communication Strategies: Develop clear and compelling communication techniques that keep investors informed and engaged.
Investment Attraction: Master the art of storytelling to attract and secure investment effectively.
Closing Remarks & Showroom Transition:
Showroom: Reason, evolution, and how to navigate.
Networking: Reminder to help each other succeed, call out the Discord, and how to join.
MDDA & The Dispensary Shoutout:
MDDA Benefits: Lobbying, policy updates, help, and support.
Our Mission: The MDDA is here to lend a voice to independent dispensary owners.
The Dispensary Invite: See a real dispensary.



