Charlie Bachtell has served as Cresco Labs’ [CSE:CL] Chief Executive Officer since February 2015 after co-founding the company in 2013….

He was named one of Chicago’s most visionary and accomplished business leaders in the Chicago Titan 100 awards and received 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. Currently, Mr. Bachtell is the Chairman of the National Cannabis Roundtable and is an adjunct professor at Northwestern University’s Pritzker School of Law, teaching a course on legal and regulatory issues in the cannabis industry.

Significant regulatory developments in Europe, explosive growth in key global markets, and recent M&A/investment transactions are fueling increased investor interest in global cannabis..

As investors enter/re-enter the space, their expectations are increasingly more sophisticated, and competition for investment capital remains intense. In this dynamic session, cannabis businesses/start-ups and investors will gain key insights from expert panelists to help them align with emerging global market opportunities.

Cannabis research is a rapidly evolving field that touches on agronomy, biochemistry, pharmacology, materials science, and healthcare.…

This panel brings together a diverse group of experts, including plant scientists, biochemists, R&D leaders from the private sector, and science communicators, to explore how interdisciplinary collaboration can drive innovation and ensure scientific integrity. Drawing from hands-on experience in crop science, cannabinoid research, product development, medical practice, and international policy, the panelists will discuss how to advance cannabis research within the boundaries of international conventions. Topics covered during this panel will include sustainable cultivation practices, the biochemical complexity of the cannabis plant, translational research for consumer and medical use, and the role of education and public engagement. By bridging disciplines, the session will demonstrate how cannabis research can lead to real-world applications, support the development of research-based businesses, and contribute to improved public health at a global level.

Dr. Can Ansay, a notable figure in Germany’s medical cannabis sector and founder of the popular telemedicine platform, DrAnsay.com, will present his perspective on the significant growth of Germany’s medical cannabis industry...

following the removal of cannabis from the Narcotics List in April 2024. That change resulted in easier patient access, which Dr. Ansay’s platform monetized. Dr. Ansay’s approach expanded patient access to prescriptions, contributed to the exponential growth of Germany’s medical industry, and simultaneously attracted critical attention from a variety of German stakeholders, including competitors and journalists. While his platform strategy has sparked controversy, there have been zero negative consequences reported from increased access to medical cannabis, apart from the controversy itself. Buckle up – Dr. Ansay will take the audience on a ride of unique insights and predictions into the evolution and future of medical cannabis in Germany in a way that only he can

Emerging regions like Africa, Asia, and Latin America are becoming key players in the cannabis industry….

This panel will explore market entry strategies, local regulations, and the potential for growth. Panelists will also discuss the importance of creating and maintaining positive government relationships in emerging jurisdictions. Learn how businesses can navigate these markets while respecting cultural and regulatory nuances.

Cannabis consumer preferences are evolving rapidly around the world, from product types to ethical considerations….

Consumption delivery methods are expanding and many consumers and patients are seeking products containing lesser-known cannabinoids beyond THC and CBD. Panelists will discuss the latest trends and how businesses can adapt to meet these demands, including how to incorporate AI technology for data collection and analysis. Gain insights into the future of cannabis consumption.

The cannabis extraction sector of the emerging cannabis industry is currently undergoing significant changes from nearly every angle,…

including regulations, technology, and shifting consumer and patient demands. As the international cannabis import/export market continues to develop, products derived from cannabis extracts will be particularly popular, including solventless extract products and new products involving lesser-known cannabinoids. A panel of leading experts will discuss the current state of the international cannabis extraction sector and where the sector is headed in the coming years.

The European Union’s Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standard helps ensure that cannabis products are safe for human consumption….

All cannabis products produced domestically or imported to the European Union must be GMP-compliant before being sold in legal markets. Decontamination processes are at the heart of European GMP cannabis compliance. A team of expert panelists will discuss various approaches to cannabis decontamination, regulatory requirements, and the unique GMP compliance hurdles facing the emerging legal cannabis industry.