The CMB Conference, formerly known as the Cannabis World Congress and Business Exposition (CWCBE Expo), took place on June 4-5 at the Javits Convention Center in New York City. This highly curated event offered a unique combination of educational sessions, networking opportunities, and immersive brand activations, making it a must-attend event for cannabis industry professionals. Exhibitors reported successful product launches and meaningful connections with attendees, making the conference a valuable experience for all involved.
The 2025 edition of the conference marked its first year under the new name of “Cannabis Means Business” or “CMB” for short. This change reflects the dynamic and diverse nature of New York City, a global hub for business, innovation, and cannabis. The conference, which has been held in New York every year since its launch in 2014, aims to showcase the vibrancy and complexity of the city’s cannabis industry.
One of the most highly anticipated events at CMB was the Fireside Chat with cannabis advocate Whoopi Goldberg. She shared her thoughts on the benefits and culture of cannabis, as well as the role of women in the industry. The female-owned beverage brand Pure Genesis, which launched their hemp-derived Whoop-Tea beverage in collaboration with Goldberg at the conference, noted that this year’s event had a strong sense of community. This was evident in the women’s luncheon and Goldberg’s conversation with CNBC’s Tim Seymour.
Pure Genesis co-founders Priscilla Wynn and Faye Coleman expressed their appreciation for the commitment to elevate women-owned businesses at CMB. They also praised the conference for its purposeful workshops and events that catered to the needs and expectations of attendees. The conference was described as a 360-degree experience, constantly evolving to meet the changing demands of the industry.
Exhibitors also noted the genuine interest and enthusiasm shown by attendees towards their products. Dave Gulliver of Mills Nutrients, a first-time exhibitor at CMB, was impressed by the diverse range of clientele at the conference. He appreciated the attendees’ thirst for knowledge and their willingness to try new products. Harrison Bard of Custom Cones USA also highlighted the positive response to their DaySavers New York pack of cones, reflecting the fast-growing and exciting energy of the New York cannabis market.
Overall, the focus on New York’s recreational market was evident throughout the two-day conference. Degelis Tufts Pilla of Tribe Tokes noted the enthusiasm and energy of the attendees, reflecting the rapid growth of the industry in the city. The conference successfully brought together industry professionals, creating a platform for meaningful connections and collaborations. With its hip and journalistic writing style, the CMB Conference was a true reflection of the vibrant and dynamic cannabis industry in New York City.
