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Q&A with 2024 Innovation Awards Judge Andrew Ward by Andrew Ward

Andrew Ward is a majestic marijuana media magnate, setting the world on fire with wit and an adequate nature of affable dickishness to boot. I say this confidently, mostly because I am him–and I have an overinflated sense of self-worth, but that will be discussed in a future article. Today, we’re talking about cannabis tech innovation. 

After writing in the cannabis industry for the past seven years, I’ve been fortunate to work with countless media outlets and brands as a journalist and copywriter. If that career combo surprises anyone, you’re not alone. I figured I’d one day have to choose between the two, but with a healthy dose of media ethics and a lot of transparency to readers and employers, I’ve done the dance for the past seven years with my company. 

Following in the footsteps of this year’s much-more-esteemed-than-I Innovation Awards judges (Mary Jane Oatman, Mary Jane Gibson, Rob Pero, and Lance Lambert), I interviewed myself to find out what I think about cannabis tech today and what stands out as some of my top picks. 

Andrew Ward for Cannabis & Tech Today: Cannabis has innovated a ton and continues to do so. What do you consider innovative in today’s cannabis space?

Andrew Ward: It depends on what area you want to head in. There’s a lot that falls into that category. Innovation is everywhere in weed. 

I can’t tell you how many different agtech and tech platforms are debuting or announcing news within any given month. Consumption continues to elevate. Edibles now extend to just about any food, beverage or ingredient–all while actually tasting good now. In the past few years, we’ve seen dabbing develop immensely, expanding from large glass rigs to a range of custom setups and sizes. I could go on for days, diving into areas like sales platforms, delivery, legislative tracking, packaging, and testing, but you get the picture. 

All the while, much of this tech is still in its early stages of evolution. While it may seem ahead of the game now, the rapid development of new technologies could make today’s leading tech look archaic in just a few years. It’s like how I thought PlayStation 1 graphics were the pinnacle of visual arts as a kid, not knowing I’d be blown away continuously by advancing work in the years ahead. In my opinion, most weed tech is currently at a PlayStation 2 or 3 level. It will only grow from here. 

C&T: What kind of impact should tech have on cannabis today and into the future?

AW: Ideally, all cannatech should be focused on ethical applications that make life easier for the consumer and without impacting nature or society. As cannabis becomes further immersed into mainstream culture, we need to make sure that tech elevates the experience without presenting harm. It’s a tall and broad task I certainly am no expert on. That said, I think the weed world does an alright job with this, but there’s always room for significant improvement. 

C&T: Judges’ opinions matter but so too does the public when it comes to winning an Inno Award. What does it take to become a hit with the public?

AW: Great question, me. Pulitzer-level stuff. In my experience, becoming a hit with the public means capitalizing on early momentum generated by the solid buzz from events, social media, advertising, etc. It’s about proving the product or brand value when it gets into the public’s hands. 

I love horror movies, and I can’t tell you how many films come out the gate strong with a solid trailer or two, only to show their weaknesses when the product is on display for the public. It’s the same in industries like weed. Brands have to get through the noise created by saturated competition and then deliver consistent products that do what they claim. Plus, unless dealing with higher buying clients, it’ll need to all happen at a price point that doesn’t scare away too many buyers. 

Or, you could be a huge celeb or mega financially backed brand. Then, you can just shove your product down the public’s throat with PR and marketing until the public can’t forget you, whether they want to or not. The former is much more ideal, but plenty go the opposite direction.

It’s a simple set of instructions with endless hurdles along the way. I commend anyone who takes on the endeavor. It’s often arduous just watching from the sidelines, but the rewards are great.

C&T: What is your favorite piece of cannabis tech you own or have owned? Why does it stand out to you?

AW: I’ve got a few I love, but the Little Dipper from Dip Devices has my heart. It opened me up to dabbing when I thought I’d never get into it. I’ve been in one too many explosions in my life. So, torches, flames, gas cans, and anything like that bug me out. 

My buddy Evan Nison gave me one while at Spannabis 2022 in Barcelona. Soon after, I picked up some live rosin, and it’s been a game-changer for me ever since. Because of it, I’ve gotten so many friends to try dabbing. Now, I often dab when I want a potent experience or when I get migraines and need to sleep. Plus, it’s relatively affordable, which is great since many consumers aren’t looking to break the bank on their pieces. 

2024 Innovation Awards Submissions are Open!

Don’t miss your chance to be recognized for your innovative contributions to the cannabis industry. Submit your entries for the 2024 Cannabis & Tech Today Innovation Awards before the Aug. 26 deadline.

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