MJBizCon 2024: A Survival Guide

The annual MJBizCon, the leading event in the cannabis industry, is just around the corner. It brings together exhibitors, speakers, investors, and consumers, all passionate about the latest innovations and insights in cannabis. Whether you're attending as a business or a consumer, this guide provides practical tips for navigating the convention, maximizing networking, and ensuring you make the most of your time at MJBizCon 2024.

• Click here if you're looking for B2B
• Click here if you're looking for B2C
• MJBizCon App
• Interactive Floor Plan 

For B2B Attendees: Maximizing Professional Impact

Booth Preparation and Design

• Engage Through Booth Design: A creative, well-thought-out booth layout grabs attention. Include interactive elements like touchscreens or VR, if relevant, and always have visually engaging materials like business cards, brochures, and product samples on hand.
• Booth Scanner: Ensure you have a digital booth scanner to easily capture visitor information for follow-ups, especially when foot traffic is high.

Promotional Materials

• Design Stand-Out Business Cards and Brochures: Business cards should be eye-catching and memorable. Incorporate QR codes on cards or brochures to direct visitors to your website or LinkedIn.
• Brand-Specific Material: Go beyond paper! Consider branded items like pens, notebooks, or water bottles to leave a lasting impression.

Map Out the Show

• Plan Your Time with My Show Planner: Use your registration login to create a "My Show Planner" account on the MJBizCon Map Your Show online portal. This portal lets you bookmark exhibitors, products, and sessions, allowing you to organize your schedule in advance. MJ has an app available for both Apple and Android devices to make it easy for you. 
• Interactive Floor Plan: Utilize the interactive Floor Plan to locate exhibitors by name, category, or region, and view the Expo layout across two floors in the South Halls. Use this tool to find companies you want to meet, including woman-owned, BIPOC-owned, and international exhibitors.

Schedule Your Speakers and Events

• Arrange Your Speaker Slots: If you're speaking or hosting a session, make sure you know the details well in advance. D
• Prioritize Keynotes and Industry Updates: Sessions on trends, technology, and regulations are invaluable. Filter sessions by pass type, speaker, and date to easily plan which ones to attend.

Networking Essentials

• Make Key Contacts: Before arriving, research and list companies or speakers you want to meet. Michele Ringleberg, our CEO and marketing expert, will share insights, case studies, and practical tips on using AI to elevate consumer experiences and boost business success. This will be taking place on December 3rd in room 2 at 10:35 am
• LinkedIn Connections: Use LinkedIn to follow up with contacts you meet. It’s the ideal platform for professional networking post-event.
• After parties: MJBizCon’s after-parties are prime networking opportunities. These relaxed settings are perfect for connecting with potential partners, clients, and investors outside the structured conference hours. It’s where genuine relationships often start, making after-parties a must for any business looking to grow in the cannabis community.

For B2C Attendees: Enjoying the MJBizCon Experience 

Booth Navigation and Scanning Tips

• Plan Your Booth Visits: Look up specific booths that align with your interests, whether it’s lifestyle products, innovative tech, or wellness brands. Keep a list of booth numbers you want to visit each day.
• Get Comfortable: With thousands of booths to see, wear comfortable shoes and plan for short breaks throughout the day. MJBizCon covers two full floors, so pace yourself!

Packing Essentials for a Smooth Day

• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes are essential, as you’ll be on your feet for long stretches. Pack a water bottle, portable charger, business cards or digital contact info, and a notebook if you prefer physical notes.
• Don’t Lose Your Badge: Your badge is your access point, so keep it safe. It’s also your pass to any after-parties or additional events happening around the convention.

Navigating the Event

• Use the MJBizCon App: Download the app to access the map, booth locations, session schedules, and more. MJ has an app available for both Apple and Android devices to make it easy for you. 
• Mark Charging Stations: Locate these in advance, as they can be lifesavers when you’re capturing all the photo ops, contacts, and notes throughout the day.

Opportunities for Learning and Fun

• Key Speakers and Product Demos: Don’t miss any keynotes, especially those covering new cannabis tech and industry growth. Keep an eye out for booths that showcase exciting products or innovations.
• Attend After-Parties: MJBizCon is known for its after-parties! It’s a great chance to network in a relaxed setting and get to know others in the cannabis community.

Post-Event Follow-Up Tips for Both B2B and B2C Attendees

• Organize Your Contacts: Go through business cards or digital contacts. For B2B, consider sending LinkedIn invitations or email follow-ups. B2C attendees can benefit from following brands or influencers on social media.
• Review and Reflect: Take a look at your notes and any brochures you collected. For business insights, this will help keep fresh ideas actionable.
• Send Follow-Up Emails: If you promised information or a meeting, send those follow-ups promptly. Networking at MJBizCon is only effective if you keep the momentum going!

Final thoughts!