Start your Root & Rise experience with a day of hands-on learning, exploration and connection. Choose from a series of optional workshops and guided experiences covering cannabis education, terpenes, wellness, cultivation and entrepreneurship. Whether you’re looking to deepen your knowledge, meet fellow attendees before the symposium begins or simply experience the region, the workshop program offers a more interactive way to engage with the people and topics shaping the future of cannabis and hemp.

PRESENTERS:
• Rob Mejia – Cooking with Cannabis Course
• Laura Leonard – Yoga & Wellness Workshop
• Russ Hudson – Terpenes in the Wild Hike & Learn
• Golf Experience
• Facility Tour

Kick off Root & Rise in the heart of downtown Salem with an evening of live music, local food, beverages, exhibitors and community. Designed to bring attendees, speakers, partners, researchers, policymakers and entrepreneurs together before formal programming begins, the Welcome Block Party creates space for the conversations and connections that often become the most memorable part of the event. Explore exhibitors, enjoy local hospitality and meet fellow attendees.

Kick off Root & Rise Symposium with opening remarks, event highlights and a look at the conversations ahead.

A pioneering researcher in cannabinoid science explores the discovery of the endocannabinoid system, its role in human health and disease, and emerging opportunities for future research.

Cannabis contains hundreds of compounds beyond THC and CBD. This session explores terpenes, flavonoids and other plant constituents, examining their role in aroma, experience and potential therapeutic applications.

What separates successful retailers from the rest? This discussion explores customer experience, compliance, merchandising, staff education and the realities of operating a cannabis retail business in a competitive market.

With Virginia moving toward adult-use sales, this conversation examines the opportunities and challenges involved in launching a new cannabis market, including regulatory implementation, stakeholder engagement, public health considerations and lessons for emerging states.

Developing successful cannabis products requires far more than a good idea. Learn about formulation, product development, quality standards, consumer expectations and the challenges of bringing products to market.

Cannabinoid beverages continue to gain momentum across regulated and hemp-derived markets. Explore consumer trends, formulation challenges, distribution opportunities and the future of infused beverages.

A conversation exploring psychedelic research, public perception, policy developments and the opportunities and challenges surrounding this rapidly evolving field.

As cannabis markets expand, communities face important decisions about zoning, education, public safety, economic development and stakeholder engagement. Learn how local leaders can prepare for successful implementation.

Cultivators across the East Coast face unique environmental conditions and production challenges. This session explores breeding strategies, genetics selection and regional adaptation.

Cultivators and industry leaders discuss the opportunities and challenges facing cannabis and hemp producers in emerging markets, including genetics, production methods, market conditions and long-term sustainability.

Through expert presentations and facilitated discussion, attendees will explore risk management, operational resilience, compliance, financial planning and strategies for long-term business success.

Meet researchers, educators, advocates and industry leaders who have contributed to the growing body of cannabis literature. Browse publications, ask questions and participate in book signings.

Industry veterans and policy experts reflect on lessons learned from established cannabis markets and explore strategies emerging states can use to avoid common pitfalls.

Students, job seekers and emerging professionals are invited to connect with industry leaders, educators and experienced practitioners in an informal mentorship setting.

Drawing from firsthand experience in Canada, this session explores what worked, what didn’t and what U.S. policymakers, operators and entrepreneurs should understand as conversations around federal legalization continue.

Competing against well-capitalized operators can seem daunting. Learn how independent operators can navigate licensing, strategy and market entry in a competitive environment.

Educators, employers and industry leaders discuss workforce development, training programs, career pathways and the skills needed to support the next generation of cannabis professionals.

Enjoy a boxed lunch, exchange final connections and continue conversations before departing Salem.