The Cannabis Means Business (CMB) Conference occurred on June 4-5, 2025, at the Javits Convention Center in New York City. This year marked the first under its new branding, transitioning from the Cannabis World Congress and Business Exposition (CWCBE Expo), which has been held annually since 2014. The event showcased high-level educational sessions, networking opportunities, and brand activations that fostered valuable connections among participants.
Exhibitors reported notable product launches and enthusiastic engagement from attendees, indicating a strong interest in cannabis innovations. Noteworthy was a Fireside Chat featuring cannabis advocate Whoopi Goldberg, where she discussed cannabis culture and women’s contributions to the industry. This conversation resonated with attendees, highlighting the community-focused atmosphere of the conference.
Pure Genesis, a female-owned beverage brand, launched their new hemp-derived Whoop-Tea beverage in collaboration with Goldberg at the event. Co-founder Priscilla Wynn remarked on the community spirit at CMB, particularly during the women’s luncheon, which aimed to support women-owned businesses. Co-founder Faye Coleman emphasized that the conference offered a full-circle experience, continuously evolving with workshops and events tailored to attendee needs.
Exhibitors noted the genuine interest attendees displayed toward their products. Mills Nutrients, a first-time exhibitor, highlighted the diversity of the audience, expressing appreciation for the attendees’ eagerness to learn and explore new offerings. Custom Cones USA also experienced positive feedback, with Harrison Bard noting the excitement surrounding their DaySavers New York pack of cones.
The focus on New York’s growing recreational cannabis market was evident throughout the conference. Tribe Tokes’ Degelis Tufts Pilla noted that as the adult-use market continues to expand, the conference has adapted to reflect this shift. Pilla expressed hope for exhibiting as a licensed adult-use brand in the following year, as they await their processing license after entering the lottery queue in December 2025. The conference aims to support businesses in building a responsible, ethical, sustainable, and profitable cannabis ecosystem, aligning with its mission as it navigates the evolving landscape.
German 
English 
Spanish 
Czech