Inside Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference: Meet The Industry Leaders
The Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, scheduled for October in Chicago, is set to be a standout event in the cannabis industry calendar. This conference will feature an impressive roster of industry leaders and innovators, each bringing their own perspective to the forefront of cannabis investment and branding. Attendees can expect in-depth discussions and firsthand updates from some of the most influential voices shaping the future of the industry. Here are just some of the top industry voices you’ll hear from.
Jim Belushi
Actor and comedian Jim Belushi has channeled his personal journey and passion into Belushi’s Farm, a cannabis cultivation enterprise in Oregon. The farm is home to a variety of cannabis strains, including the rare “Captain Jack’s Gulzar Afghanica,” known for its connection to “Saturday Night Live.”
Belushi’s dedication to the cannabis industry is rooted in his belief in the plant’s therapeutic benefits, shaped by his life experiences. Beyond cultivation, he is an active advocate for using cannabis as a natural remedy, particularly as an alternative to opioids, and supports initiatives that highlight its potential to improve well-being.
Charlie Bachtell
Charlie Bachtell is the CEO of Cresco Labs, one of the largest multi-state cannabis operators in the U.S. Drawing on his extensive legal background, Bachtell has been at the forefront of guiding Cresco Labs through the cannabis industry’s complex and ever-changing regulatory landscape.
Under his leadership, the company has expanded its footprint across multiple states, maintaining compliance with diverse legal frameworks while increasing its presence in the competitive market. Bachtell’s experience in corporate governance and regulatory compliance has been integral to Cresco’s steady growth and operational success.
George Archos
George Archos, the founder and CEO of Verano Holdings, has grown the company into one of the most extensive cannabis operations in the U.S., with a footprint across 13 states and over 130 dispensaries. With a background rooted in logistics and restaurant management, Archos has successfully applied his operational expertise to the cannabis industry, overseeing Verano’s broad network with precision. His dedication to quality and consistency has helped Verano earn its reputation as a trusted name in the cannabis market.
Ross Gerber
Ross Gerber, the co-founder, president, and CEO of Gerber Kawasaki Wealth and Investment Management, is a leading figure in financial and investment circles. His firm, known for its focus on diverse investment opportunities, including cannabis, manages a portfolio valued at $2.6 billion as of January 2024. Gerber’s approach combines traditional financial management with modern technology and social media strategies, setting …