WINTER 2019 | DEC. 6 | SANTA MONICA
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We're Live! Watch the Cannabis Forum for Food & Beverage.

Live from the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel on Friday, December 6th from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM PT. Tune into food and beverage industry discussions centered around the emerging cannabis space. Conversations will cover cannabrand building, challenges for entrepreneurial cannabis brands, the financial environment, tipping points in regulation, and the current state of the market.

Some of the Brands Registered to Attend

Proposition CocktailKor ShotsDeeBee'sKIVA ConfectionsBake BelievePacific
Evolution Fresh
B&G Foods
NestleUpstreet BrewingDeschutes BreweryVOSS Water

Cannabis Forum Winter 2019 Speakers

There are more to come. Stay tuned for additional speaker announcements!

  • Dr. John Oram, CEO and Founder, NUG - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Dr. John Oram

    CEO and Founder, NUG

    Dr. John Oram, CEO and Founder, NUG - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Dr. John Oram

    CEO and Founder, NUG

    Dr. John Oram is CEO and Founder of vertically-integrated cannabis company NUG, which operates the highest volume cannabis extraction facility in California, producing the majority of concentrates and other infused cannabis products sold in California under the NUG label and other leading brands. John holds Ph.D. and M.S. degrees in environmental chemistry and engineering from the University of California Los Angeles and bachelor’s degrees in analytical chemistry and biochemistry from the University of Colorado at Boulder. A veteran of the industry since the early 2000s, John possesses extensive knowledge on how to operate a successful cannabis company from seed to sale. Prior to founding NUG, he co-founded CW Analytical Laboratories--recognized as the most trusted analytical laboratory in the state--to establish standardized testing and certification protocols in order to ensure the safety and quality of medical cannabis.

  • Allison Margolin, Partner, Margolin & Lawrence - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Allison Margolin

    Partner, Margolin & Lawrence

    Allison Margolin, Partner, Margolin & Lawrence - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Allison Margolin

    Partner, Margolin & Lawrence

    Allison was one of the first lawyers to specialize in cannabis and has built a burgeoning practice over the last 15 years that is unrivaled in the space. A graduate of Harvard Law School and Columbia University, Allison combines top credentials and an extensive depth of experience in cannabis business law, with a lifelong passion for cannabis policy reform. In her current focus on cannabis business regulation and compliance, Allison has guided her clients— licensed dispensaries, growers and manufacturers— through the complex and ever-changing laws and regulations governing medical and adult-use cannabis.

  • Chris Cuvelier, Head of Beverage, Caliva - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Chris Cuvelier

    Head of Beverage, Caliva

    Chris Cuvelier, Head of Beverage, Caliva - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Chris Cuvelier

    Head of Beverage, Caliva

    Chris Cuvelier is Head of Beverage at Caliva. Chris started his career focused on beverages, working in the juice and smoothie industry before taking a life-changing trip to Brazil in 2001 where he fell in love with Açaí and was inspired to start Zola. A few years later, he expanded Zola to include Coconut Water, his favorite hydration drink after a good surf session. In 2016 Zola was sold to growth investors KarpReilly and Chris stayed on as CEO doubling down on his passion for delicious plant-based drinks. In late 2018, Caliva’s CEO, Dennis O’Malley and Chris were speaking about disruption at a beverage conference in 2018. Chris had long seen Cannabis as the ultimate plant-based ingredient and began consulting for Caliva soon after meeting Dennis. Recognizing the opportunity to be a leader in cannabis beverages, Caliva acquired Zola in May 2019 to quickly accelerate Caliva into the cannabis infused beverage category.

  • Michael Blue, Managing Partner, Privateer Holdings - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Michael Blue

    Managing Partner, Privateer Holdings

    Michael Blue, Managing Partner, Privateer Holdings - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Michael Blue

    Managing Partner, Privateer Holdings

    Michael’s finance expertise and business management talents are honed by more than a decade in investment banking, private equity, and consulting. Beyond his executive role in acquisitions and investments, his career has immersed him in nearly every aspect of business development and operations, across a spectrum of consumer and B-to-B industries. Principal at Herrington, Inc. Michael joined Herrington, Inc., a private equity and development firm, in 2006 and led a range of development and business ventures for the firm. As COO of Ridge Capital Partners and COO of Gaillardia Development Company, Michael was responsible for planning, marketing, and operating both development projects and existing companies across the country. Vice President at de Visscher & Company. During his time at de Visscher & Company, a private equity, investment banking, and consulting firm based in Greenwich, CT, Michael led major assignments in the valuation, refinance, acquisition, and sale of publicly traded as well as privately held companies. His experience in a variety of industries includes software development, healthcare, energy, real estate, textiles, retail, and hospitality. Harding University: BBA Yale School of Management: MBA Michael lives in Seattle with his wife and two children.

  • Cy Scott, CEO, Headset - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Cy Scott

    CEO, Headset

    Cy Scott, CEO, Headset - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Cy Scott

    CEO, Headset

    Cy has been involved in the professional cannabis industry for over five years. In 2010, Cy co-founded Leafly, and helped grow the company into one of the most well-respected brands in cannabis and had a successful exit with Privateer Holdings. Cy’s latest venture is Headset, a SaaS platform providing actionable insights and business intelligence services for the emerging cannabis industry. Cy has experience in building companies, product management and engineering and development.

  • Christian Groh, Partner, Privateer Holdings - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Christian Groh

    Partner, Privateer Holdings

    Christian Groh, Partner, Privateer Holdings - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Christian Groh

    Partner, Privateer Holdings

    Christian’s combination of professional accomplishments and business vision give Privateer Holdings a uniquely well-positioned partner. His more than 10 years of strategic sales, operations, and management experience has consistently been in new commercial frontiers and instrumental in the emerging legal cannabis industry. Director of Sales at SVB Analytics. Christian was pivotal in growing its client base from 200 to 2500. He specialized in early stage, venture-backed companies focused on hardware, software, life science, and clean tech. Advisor for AB 223 Compassionate Use Act of 1996 (Hon. Tom Ammiano). This bill would make findings and declarations regarding medical marijuana, as well as provide that it is the intent of the Legislature to improve the Compassionate Use Act of 1996 and the states' medical marijuana program by establishing a comprehensive and multidisciplinary commission that is empowered to address issues regarding the legality and implementation of the Compassionate Use Act of 1996 and the states' medical marijuana law. Director at Nextel Communications. Christian created the corporation’s national affinity marketing program. He served as a subject matter expert in Transportation/Logistics' vertical partnering with key industry associations through speaking engagements, conferences, and sponsorships, elevating Nextel’s position as the premier wireless solutions provider. Christian is married with two children. He has competed professionally in mountain biking.

  • Jill Ellsworth, Founder & CEO, Willow Industries, Inc. - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Jill Ellsworth

    Founder & CEO, Willow Industries, Inc.

    Jill Ellsworth, Founder & CEO, Willow Industries, Inc. - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Jill Ellsworth

    Founder & CEO, Willow Industries, Inc.

    Jill Ellsworth is founder and CEO of Willow Industries, Inc., which provides state-of-the-art, ozone-based technology for post-harvest microbial decontamination. Upon launching Willow Industries in 2015, Jill’s aim was—and remains—to protect consumers and patients by helping producers put clean, safe product on the market. Willow’s technology has proven to reduce yeast, mold, bacteria, mildew, E.Coli, and other dangerous pathogens, all while protecting the medicinal properties of the plant. The introduction of the WillowPureSM system to the market has provided growers a solution to passing newly set state regulation standards. Fueled by her passion for innovation and dedication to healthier living, Jill is a vocal advocate for the cannabis industry’s adoption of FDA-like standards and proactive promotion of safety measures. Jill serves on the Cannabis Health and Safety Advisory Committee for the City of Denver and is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a Master’s of Science in Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Science. She also has tremendous experience in HAACP plans, pasteurization techniques, and food safety. Prior to launching Willow Industries in 2015, Jill founded Vibrant Earth Juices (VEJ), a cold-pressed organic juice company, in 2010 and later parlayed VEJ into a beverage distribution company. In 2013, Jill was named Female Entrepreneur of the Year in Emerging Business by the Santa Barbara Women's Economic Ventures group. Most recently, Jill was selected by Marijuana Business Daily as one of their 2019 Women to Watch in Cannabis. She has also been honored by cannabis lifestyle magazine, GreenDorphin, as one of the 20 Most Influential Women in Cannabis and Industry Leaders Magazine as one of the Influential Businesswomen in the Cannabis Industry. She recently closed a $2 million Series Seed round for Willow.

  • Ricardo Baca, Founder & CEO, Grasslands - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Ricardo Baca

    Founder & CEO, Grasslands

    Ricardo Baca, Founder & CEO, Grasslands - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Ricardo Baca

    Founder & CEO, Grasslands

    Ricardo Baca is a 20-year veteran journalist, keynote speaker and thought leader in modern media and drug policy circles. He served as The Denver Post’s first-ever marijuana editor and founded news vertical The Cannabist, where he extensively covered the advent of adult-use cannabis and related issues across the country and around the world. In 2016, Mr. Baca launched Grasslands: A Journalism-Minded Agency to work directly with business leaders in highly regulated industries, including cannabis, energy, hemp and healthcare. He has received numerous accolades for his trailblazing work covering drug policy, cannabis business and culture, and continues to columnize and host podcasts for a number of top publications. Mr. Baca was named Marketer of the Year by AdCann in 2019.

  • Hilary Brown, Director of Products, SoRSE Technology - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Hilary Brown

    Director of Products, SoRSE Technology

    Hilary Brown, Director of Products, SoRSE Technology - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Hilary Brown

    Director of Products, SoRSE Technology

    Hillary Brown brings over twenty years of experience in the culinary industry, six years in the cannabis space, and five years specializing in product development to the team. Prior to SoRSE, she was the Head of Research and Development at Botanica Seattle where she focused on flavor palatability and supported the development of multiple award-winning products including the Moxey Mint (#1 edible in WA State). Hillary owned a chocolate company, Restless Chocolates, and contributed recipes for “Grow Your Own: Understanding, Cultivating, and Enjoying Cannabis.”

  • Will Kleidon, Founder & CEO, Ojai Energetics - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Will Kleidon

    Founder & CEO, Ojai Energetics

    Will Kleidon, Founder & CEO, Ojai Energetics - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Will Kleidon

    Founder & CEO, Ojai Energetics

    Will Kleidon founded Ojai Energetics in 2014. His goal was to provide the purest, healthiest, and most ethically produced cannabidiol (CBD) product on the market… giving people a viable supplement for living the most effective and healthiest life possible. Four years later, the small business is a leader in cutting-edge, science-driven organic nutraceutical and medical food products for achieving optimal physical and spiritual health. Will has collected one of the most interesting executive boards in the world, including famous athletes, doctors, and well-connected members of the entertainment industry. Prior to founding Ojai Energetics, Will coordinated a sustainability summit with 25 organizations and 500 attendees. He went on to study permaculture in Australia, where he apprenticed with one of the world's leading experts, Professor Robyn Francis, at Permaculture College Australia.

  • Michael Devlin, Founder & President, Db3 Inc. - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Michael Devlin

    Founder & President, Db3 Inc.

    Michael Devlin, Founder & President, Db3 Inc. - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Michael Devlin

    Founder & President, Db3 Inc.

    Michael Devlin was most recently the founder and president Db3 Inc., Washington State’s first licensed marijuana-infused edibles manufacturer. The Company’s brand of products, ZootsTM , has developed into a full line of offerings across the confectionery, baked, and liquid categories of infused edibles, with distribution in 4 states. He is an experienced manufacturing professional, with over 30 years of CPG experience in the snack food industry, during which he developed the skills and abilities to design and implement new product processes, as well as drive measurable improvements with limited budgets.

  • Jacqueline Bennett, Director, Sands Lane Capital - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Jacqueline Bennett

    Director, Sands Lane Capital

    Jacqueline Bennett, Director, Sands Lane Capital - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Jacqueline Bennett

    Director, Sands Lane Capital

    Jacqueline has over 15 years of professional experience spanning multiple disciplines, including investment banking, private equity and operations. Before joining Sands Lane Capital, she was a Director at ELLO Capital, one of the first US Investment banks dedicated to Cannabis, Hemp and Impacted Industries. Previously she was a Vice President at J.P. Morgan’s Investment Bank in New York where she advised early stage disruptive companies and consumer & retail clients on private placements, mergers & acquisitions, leveraged buyouts and initial public offerings, as well as provided general strategic advisory services. Prior to this she spent two years at Credit Suisse advising and executing transactions on behalf of private equity clients. Jacqueline spent three years in San Francisco working for Viator, a venture funded, high growth, ecommerce company. At Viator she managed both strategic and finance teams, led multiple acquisition efforts and contributed to the company tripling revenue. Viator was acquired by TripAdvisor in 2014. Jacqueline started her career as an equity capital markets analyst at Babcock & Brown, a leading merchant bank, in Sydney. In this capacity she helped raised multiple asset management funds and structured complex margin loan facilities.

  • Hershel Gerson, Managing Director, ELLO Capital - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Hershel Gerson

    Managing Director, ELLO Capital

    Hershel Gerson, Managing Director, ELLO Capital - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Hershel Gerson

    Managing Director, ELLO Capital

    Hershel has over 20 years of success in Investment Banking, M&A and Private Equity. He has successfully advised and closed over 55 transactions for private equity and corporate clients with a total value exceeding $30 billion. His ability to advise across a broad range of strategic matters – including leveraged finance, mergers and acquisitions, initial public offerings, private placements, project finance, and general advisory assignments – has allowed him to build long-standing, trusted relationships with clients. He has previous deal experience across industry verticals that include retail and consumer, TMT, energy, real estate and healthcare. Previously, Hershel led Macquarie Capital's Consumer Coverage efforts focused on the food, beverage, H.P.C. and restaurant sectors. Prior, he led M&A efforts at Causeforce, bringing capital to consolidate the endurance event space with a focus on raising money for cancer research. He also held leadership roles at BNP Paribas as West Coast Team Leader and Credit Suisse as Head of West Coast Retail and Consumer coverage.

  • Jeffrey Klineman, Editor-in-Chief, BevNET - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Jeffrey Klineman

    Editor-in-Chief, BevNET

    Jeffrey Klineman, Editor-in-Chief, BevNET - Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

    Jeffrey Klineman

    Editor-in-Chief, BevNET

    As Editor-in-Chief of BevNET, Jeffrey Klineman oversees the organization's reporting across all of its web sites, as well as BevNET Magazine. Jeffrey is also responsible for developing the content for conferences like BevNET Live and Food and Beverage University (FBU). Jeffrey previously worked as a newspaper reporter for the Lawrence Eagle-Tribune, the Boston TAB and the Metrowest Daily News, and has freelanced for publications like Slate, Boston Magazine, Self, George, Commonwealth, and the Chronicle of Philanthropy. Jeffrey is a graduate of Yale University and Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism. A frequently-cited expert on the beverage industry, Jeffrey has also been named in Forbes as one of the 25 Most Influential Kingmakers in Consumer and Retail Companies. He is still trying to live that one down.

Stay the Friday Between NOSH Live and BevNET Live

Hundreds of food and beverage leaders will come together in Santa Monica for NOSH Live on December 4th and 5th, and BevNET Live on December 9th and 10th. Together, the business conferences provide a one-two punch, focused individually on the business of packaged natural food and beverage. With hundreds of food and beverage professionals coming together we have the opportunity to explore an emerging market, the fast growing cannabis industry.

REGISTER

Cannabis Forum Winter 2019 Agenda

Please note: All times US Pacific Time

  • 8:00 AM
    -
    9:00 AM
    Breakfast & Registration
  • 9:00 AM
    -
    9:10 AM
    Introduction
    • Jeffrey Klineman
      , Editor-in-Chief, BevNET
      Jeffrey Klineman, Editor-in-Chief, BevNET -

      Jeffrey Klineman

      Editor-in-Chief, BevNET

      As Editor-in-Chief of BevNET, Jeffrey Klineman oversees the organization's reporting across all of its web sites, as well as BevNET Magazine. Jeffrey is also responsible for developing the content for conferences like BevNET Live and Food and Beverage University (FBU). Jeffrey previously worked as a newspaper reporter for the Lawrence Eagle-Tribune, the Boston TAB and the Metrowest Daily News, and has freelanced for publications like Slate, Boston Magazine, Self, George, Commonwealth, and the Chronicle of Philanthropy. Jeffrey is a graduate of Yale University and Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism. A frequently-cited expert on the beverage industry, Jeffrey has also been named in Forbes as one of the 25 Most Influential Kingmakers in Consumer and Retail Companies. He is still trying to live that one down.

    • Jeffrey Klineman, Editor-in-Chief, BevNET
  • 9:10 AM
    -
    9:45 AM
    The Cannabis Business in the Public Eye
    • Ricardo Baca
      , Founder & CEO, Grasslands
      Ricardo Baca, Founder & CEO, Grasslands -

      Ricardo Baca

      Founder & CEO, Grasslands

      Ricardo Baca is a 20-year veteran journalist, keynote speaker and thought leader in modern media and drug policy circles. He served as The Denver Post’s first-ever marijuana editor and founded news vertical The Cannabist, where he extensively covered the advent of adult-use cannabis and related issues across the country and around the world. In 2016, Mr. Baca launched Grasslands: A Journalism-Minded Agency to work directly with business leaders in highly regulated industries, including cannabis, energy, hemp and healthcare. He has received numerous accolades for his trailblazing work covering drug policy, cannabis business and culture, and continues to columnize and host podcasts for a number of top publications. Mr. Baca was named Marketer of the Year by AdCann in 2019.

    • Ricardo Baca, Founder & CEO, Grasslands

     Watch Video

  • 9:45 AM
    -
    10:20 AM
    Diving In: From Beverage to Cannabis
    • Chris Cuvelier
      , Head of Beverage, Caliva
      Chris Cuvelier, Head of Beverage, Caliva -

      Chris Cuvelier

      Head of Beverage, Caliva

      Chris Cuvelier is Head of Beverage at Caliva. Chris started his career focused on beverages, working in the juice and smoothie industry before taking a life-changing trip to Brazil in 2001 where he fell in love with Açaí and was inspired to start Zola. A few years later, he expanded Zola to include Coconut Water, his favorite hydration drink after a good surf session. In 2016 Zola was sold to growth investors KarpReilly and Chris stayed on as CEO doubling down on his passion for delicious plant-based drinks. In late 2018, Caliva’s CEO, Dennis O’Malley and Chris were speaking about disruption at a beverage conference in 2018. Chris had long seen Cannabis as the ultimate plant-based ingredient and began consulting for Caliva soon after meeting Dennis. Recognizing the opportunity to be a leader in cannabis beverages, Caliva acquired Zola in May 2019 to quickly accelerate Caliva into the cannabis infused beverage category.

    • Chris Cuvelier, Head of Beverage, Caliva

     Watch Video

  • 10:20 AM
    -
    11:00 AM
    Networking Break
  • 11:00 AM
    -
    11:30 AM
    State of the Market
    • Cy Scott
      , CEO, Headset
      Cy Scott, CEO, Headset -

      Cy Scott

      CEO, Headset

      Cy has been involved in the professional cannabis industry for over five years. In 2010, Cy co-founded Leafly, and helped grow the company into one of the most well-respected brands in cannabis and had a successful exit with Privateer Holdings. Cy’s latest venture is Headset, a SaaS platform providing actionable insights and business intelligence services for the emerging cannabis industry. Cy has experience in building companies, product management and engineering and development.

    • Cy Scott, CEO, Headset

     Watch Video

  • 11:30 AM
    -
    12:00 PM
    From High Pressure to High Test: Differences at the Factory Level
    • Jill Ellsworth
      , Founder & CEO, Willow Industries, Inc.
      Jill Ellsworth, Founder & CEO, Willow Industries, Inc. -

      Jill Ellsworth

      Founder & CEO, Willow Industries, Inc.

      Jill Ellsworth is founder and CEO of Willow Industries, Inc., which provides state-of-the-art, ozone-based technology for post-harvest microbial decontamination. Upon launching Willow Industries in 2015, Jill’s aim was—and remains—to protect consumers and patients by helping producers put clean, safe product on the market. Willow’s technology has proven to reduce yeast, mold, bacteria, mildew, E.Coli, and other dangerous pathogens, all while protecting the medicinal properties of the plant. The introduction of the WillowPureSM system to the market has provided growers a solution to passing newly set state regulation standards. Fueled by her passion for innovation and dedication to healthier living, Jill is a vocal advocate for the cannabis industry’s adoption of FDA-like standards and proactive promotion of safety measures. Jill serves on the Cannabis Health and Safety Advisory Committee for the City of Denver and is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a Master’s of Science in Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Science. She also has tremendous experience in HAACP plans, pasteurization techniques, and food safety. Prior to launching Willow Industries in 2015, Jill founded Vibrant Earth Juices (VEJ), a cold-pressed organic juice company, in 2010 and later parlayed VEJ into a beverage distribution company. In 2013, Jill was named Female Entrepreneur of the Year in Emerging Business by the Santa Barbara Women's Economic Ventures group. Most recently, Jill was selected by Marijuana Business Daily as one of their 2019 Women to Watch in Cannabis. She has also been honored by cannabis lifestyle magazine, GreenDorphin, as one of the 20 Most Influential Women in Cannabis and Industry Leaders Magazine as one of the Influential Businesswomen in the Cannabis Industry. She recently closed a $2 million Series Seed round for Willow.

    • Jill Ellsworth, Founder & CEO, Willow Industries, Inc.

     Watch Video

  • 12:00 PM
    -
    12:30 PM
    Investor Profile: The First Cannabis VC
    • Michael Blue
      , Managing Partner, Privateer Holdings
      Michael Blue, Managing Partner, Privateer Holdings -

      Michael Blue

      Managing Partner, Privateer Holdings

      Michael’s finance expertise and business management talents are honed by more than a decade in investment banking, private equity, and consulting. Beyond his executive role in acquisitions and investments, his career has immersed him in nearly every aspect of business development and operations, across a spectrum of consumer and B-to-B industries. Principal at Herrington, Inc. Michael joined Herrington, Inc., a private equity and development firm, in 2006 and led a range of development and business ventures for the firm. As COO of Ridge Capital Partners and COO of Gaillardia Development Company, Michael was responsible for planning, marketing, and operating both development projects and existing companies across the country. Vice President at de Visscher & Company. During his time at de Visscher & Company, a private equity, investment banking, and consulting firm based in Greenwich, CT, Michael led major assignments in the valuation, refinance, acquisition, and sale of publicly traded as well as privately held companies. His experience in a variety of industries includes software development, healthcare, energy, real estate, textiles, retail, and hospitality. Harding University: BBA Yale School of Management: MBA Michael lives in Seattle with his wife and two children.

    • Christian Groh
      , Partner, Privateer Holdings
      Christian Groh, Partner, Privateer Holdings -

      Christian Groh

      Partner, Privateer Holdings

      Christian’s combination of professional accomplishments and business vision give Privateer Holdings a uniquely well-positioned partner. His more than 10 years of strategic sales, operations, and management experience has consistently been in new commercial frontiers and instrumental in the emerging legal cannabis industry. Director of Sales at SVB Analytics. Christian was pivotal in growing its client base from 200 to 2500. He specialized in early stage, venture-backed companies focused on hardware, software, life science, and clean tech. Advisor for AB 223 Compassionate Use Act of 1996 (Hon. Tom Ammiano). This bill would make findings and declarations regarding medical marijuana, as well as provide that it is the intent of the Legislature to improve the Compassionate Use Act of 1996 and the states' medical marijuana program by establishing a comprehensive and multidisciplinary commission that is empowered to address issues regarding the legality and implementation of the Compassionate Use Act of 1996 and the states' medical marijuana law. Director at Nextel Communications. Christian created the corporation’s national affinity marketing program. He served as a subject matter expert in Transportation/Logistics' vertical partnering with key industry associations through speaking engagements, conferences, and sponsorships, elevating Nextel’s position as the premier wireless solutions provider. Christian is married with two children. He has competed professionally in mountain biking.

    • Michael Blue, Managing Partner, Privateer Holdings
    • Christian Groh, Partner, Privateer Holdings

     Watch Video

  • 12:30 PM
    -
    1:30 PM
    Lunch Break
  • 1:30 PM
    -
    2:00 PM
    Freedom Works: How Companies Stay Out of Jail
    • Allison Margolin
      , Partner, Margolin & Lawrence
      Allison Margolin, Partner, Margolin & Lawrence -

      Allison Margolin

      Partner, Margolin & Lawrence

      Allison was one of the first lawyers to specialize in cannabis and has built a burgeoning practice over the last 15 years that is unrivaled in the space. A graduate of Harvard Law School and Columbia University, Allison combines top credentials and an extensive depth of experience in cannabis business law, with a lifelong passion for cannabis policy reform. In her current focus on cannabis business regulation and compliance, Allison has guided her clients— licensed dispensaries, growers and manufacturers— through the complex and ever-changing laws and regulations governing medical and adult-use cannabis.

    • Allison Margolin, Partner, Margolin & Lawrence

     Watch Video

  • 2:00 PM
    -
    2:30 PM
    Both Sides of the Counter: Designing for Dispensaries
    • Dr. John Oram
      , CEO and Founder, NUG
      Dr. John Oram, CEO and Founder, NUG -

      Dr. John Oram

      CEO and Founder, NUG

      Dr. John Oram is CEO and Founder of vertically-integrated cannabis company NUG, which operates the highest volume cannabis extraction facility in California, producing the majority of concentrates and other infused cannabis products sold in California under the NUG label and other leading brands. John holds Ph.D. and M.S. degrees in environmental chemistry and engineering from the University of California Los Angeles and bachelor’s degrees in analytical chemistry and biochemistry from the University of Colorado at Boulder. A veteran of the industry since the early 2000s, John possesses extensive knowledge on how to operate a successful cannabis company from seed to sale. Prior to founding NUG, he co-founded CW Analytical Laboratories--recognized as the most trusted analytical laboratory in the state--to establish standardized testing and certification protocols in order to ensure the safety and quality of medical cannabis.

    • Dr. John Oram, CEO and Founder, NUG

     Watch Video

  • 2:30 PM
    -
    3:00 PM
    Fundraising for Cannabis Entrepreneurs
    • Jacqueline Bennett
      , Director, Sands Lane Capital
      Jacqueline Bennett, Director, Sands Lane Capital -

      Jacqueline Bennett

      Director, Sands Lane Capital

      Jacqueline has over 15 years of professional experience spanning multiple disciplines, including investment banking, private equity and operations. Before joining Sands Lane Capital, she was a Director at ELLO Capital, one of the first US Investment banks dedicated to Cannabis, Hemp and Impacted Industries. Previously she was a Vice President at J.P. Morgan’s Investment Bank in New York where she advised early stage disruptive companies and consumer & retail clients on private placements, mergers & acquisitions, leveraged buyouts and initial public offerings, as well as provided general strategic advisory services. Prior to this she spent two years at Credit Suisse advising and executing transactions on behalf of private equity clients. Jacqueline spent three years in San Francisco working for Viator, a venture funded, high growth, ecommerce company. At Viator she managed both strategic and finance teams, led multiple acquisition efforts and contributed to the company tripling revenue. Viator was acquired by TripAdvisor in 2014. Jacqueline started her career as an equity capital markets analyst at Babcock & Brown, a leading merchant bank, in Sydney. In this capacity she helped raised multiple asset management funds and structured complex margin loan facilities.

    • Hershel Gerson
      , Managing Director, ELLO Capital
      Hershel Gerson, Managing Director, ELLO Capital -

      Hershel Gerson

      Managing Director, ELLO Capital

      Hershel has over 20 years of success in Investment Banking, M&A and Private Equity. He has successfully advised and closed over 55 transactions for private equity and corporate clients with a total value exceeding $30 billion. His ability to advise across a broad range of strategic matters – including leveraged finance, mergers and acquisitions, initial public offerings, private placements, project finance, and general advisory assignments – has allowed him to build long-standing, trusted relationships with clients. He has previous deal experience across industry verticals that include retail and consumer, TMT, energy, real estate and healthcare. Previously, Hershel led Macquarie Capital's Consumer Coverage efforts focused on the food, beverage, H.P.C. and restaurant sectors. Prior, he led M&A efforts at Causeforce, bringing capital to consolidate the endurance event space with a focus on raising money for cancer research. He also held leadership roles at BNP Paribas as West Coast Team Leader and Credit Suisse as Head of West Coast Retail and Consumer coverage.

    • Jacqueline Bennett, Director, Sands Lane Capital
    • Hershel Gerson, Managing Director, ELLO Capital

     Watch Video

  • 3:00 PM
    -
    3:30 PM
    Meet the Wizards: Our Culinary Creation AMA
    • Will Kleidon
      , Founder & CEO, Ojai Energetics
      Will Kleidon, Founder & CEO, Ojai Energetics -

      Will Kleidon

      Founder & CEO, Ojai Energetics

      Will Kleidon founded Ojai Energetics in 2014. His goal was to provide the purest, healthiest, and most ethically produced cannabidiol (CBD) product on the market… giving people a viable supplement for living the most effective and healthiest life possible. Four years later, the small business is a leader in cutting-edge, science-driven organic nutraceutical and medical food products for achieving optimal physical and spiritual health. Will has collected one of the most interesting executive boards in the world, including famous athletes, doctors, and well-connected members of the entertainment industry. Prior to founding Ojai Energetics, Will coordinated a sustainability summit with 25 organizations and 500 attendees. He went on to study permaculture in Australia, where he apprenticed with one of the world's leading experts, Professor Robyn Francis, at Permaculture College Australia.

    • Hilary Brown
      , Director of Products, SoRSE Technology
      Hilary Brown, Director of Products, SoRSE Technology -

      Hilary Brown

      Director of Products, SoRSE Technology

      Hillary Brown brings over twenty years of experience in the culinary industry, six years in the cannabis space, and five years specializing in product development to the team. Prior to SoRSE, she was the Head of Research and Development at Botanica Seattle where she focused on flavor palatability and supported the development of multiple award-winning products including the Moxey Mint (#1 edible in WA State). Hillary owned a chocolate company, Restless Chocolates, and contributed recipes for “Grow Your Own: Understanding, Cultivating, and Enjoying Cannabis.”

    • Michael Devlin
      , Founder & President, Db3 Inc.
      Michael Devlin, Founder & President, Db3 Inc. -

      Michael Devlin

      Founder & President, Db3 Inc.

      Michael Devlin was most recently the founder and president Db3 Inc., Washington State’s first licensed marijuana-infused edibles manufacturer. The Company’s brand of products, ZootsTM , has developed into a full line of offerings across the confectionery, baked, and liquid categories of infused edibles, with distribution in 4 states. He is an experienced manufacturing professional, with over 30 years of CPG experience in the snack food industry, during which he developed the skills and abilities to design and implement new product processes, as well as drive measurable improvements with limited budgets.

    • Will Kleidon, Founder & CEO, Ojai Energetics
    • Hilary Brown, Director of Products, SoRSE Technology
    • Michael Devlin, Founder & President, Db3 Inc.

     Watch Video

  • 3:30 PM
    -
    3:45 PM
    Concluding Remarks
  • 4:00 PM
    -
    6:00 PM
    Happy Hour Powered by HerbForce
    Location: Jimmy's American Tavern, 1733 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401
    All registered Cannabis Forum Winter 2019 attendees are invited to attend. A conference badge and valid ID are required for admittance.

Venue: Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel

Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel

1700 Ocean Avenue

Santa Monica, CA

Directions

Recent Event Announcements

Cannabis Forum Winter 2019: Fundraising for Cannabis Entrepreneurs

The Cannabis Forum, presented by BevNET and NOSH on December 6 at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, has added one more special discussion to help cannabis entrepreneurs understand the fundraising environment for their brands.

Cannabis Forum Winter 2019 Agenda Released

It’s time to announce the official agenda for the Cannabis Forum for Food and Beverage, presented by BevNET and NOSH, on Friday, December 6 in Santa Monica, Calif. The cannabis market continues to evolve, and we’re going to come back together, this time at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel.

Explore Cannabis in the Public Eye at Cannabis Forum Winter 2019

As cannabis enters the mainstream, public perception is changing. Ricardo Baca, a trailblazing journalist and communications professional covering cannabis business and culture, joins the Cannabis Forum Winter 2019 speaker lineup to provide insight into these shifts and how they will affect food and beverage brands seeking an edge.

Cannabis Forum: Both Sides of the Dispensary Counter with NUG’s CEO

What is the sell-in situation for both retailers and suppliers of cannabis brands, particularly in the edible and drinkable markets? At the Cannabis Forum this December we’ll hear from the CEO of NUG, which is both a manufacturer of cannabis-infused products and an operator of dispensaries

Cannabis Forum Speakers: The Pioneers Building an Industry

At the Cannabis Forum, Presented by BevNET and NOSH, industry trailblazers will bring entrepreneurs into the new industry they are creating and explain the intersection of cannabis with food and beverage brands.

See You in Santa Monica on December 6th

Two registration options are available: a stand-alone ticket or an 
add-on ticket for NOSH Live and BevNET Live attendees.

Attendee of BevNET Live or NOSH Live: $499

Cannabis Forum Only: $999

REGISTER