Highlights from Kahner Global’s 3rd Annual Cannabis Private Investment Summit in Toronto

This week’s Kahner Global summit in Toronto hosted over 100 attendees for a packed day of panels and pitches. Five of the best and brightest cannabis entrepreneurs participated in a pitch competition held after discussions featuring industry leaders including top institutional investors, family offices, and ultra high net worth individuals.

The day was capped with a happy hour hosted by Bennett Jones and an after-party evening of networking in downtown Toronto.

Thanks to Bennett Jones LLP, Green Sky Labs and all our sponsors for another successful Summit, which would not have been possible without your support. And, a special call out goes to Michael Gordon, Co-Founder & CEO, Kush Marketplace, for his opening remarks on the Future of Hemp and Cannabis and for keeping us on pace as MC.

Here are some highlights and insights from Summit panelists and presenters:

Ranjeev Dhillon, Partner, Bennett Jones LLP moderated the all-legal panel where there was consensus that many in the United States want cannabis off schedule, but for now, there will continue to be state by state monopolies. There was also agreement that the hemp market was poised to expand hugely with the passing of the farm bill.

Stephen Lenn, Partner, Greenspoon Marder, commented: “There is no reduction yet on pricing, enthusiasm, projections or valuations - but it’s coming.”

Mark Sraga, Director of Investigation Services, Licensing Department, City of Toronto spoke on regulation around cannabis and it mirroring tobacco with respect to stores and cafes and where smoking and vaping will eventually be considered.

Chris Barry, Partner, Dorsey & Whitney, warned: “Be wary of management teams taking a loose approach to compliance. Bad outcomes are likely.”

Rehan Huda, CEO, Green Sky Labs – the Summit’s Platinum Sponsor, gave a short talk on Technology Trends in the Cannabis Industry: Xtraction, Genetics, and AI. He highlighted: “CBD is the next trend - the next vitamin D - but there are still a limited number of trials.”

Rehan Huda also shared that Green Sky Labs is tracking tr