MoCannTrade Springfield Meetup aims to empower microbusinesses in Missouri’s marijuana industry

The Missouri Cannabis Trade Association (MoCannTrade) is set to hold its quarterly meetup on Nov. 18-19 at the University Plaza Hotel and Conference Center, placing a strong emphasis on supporting microbusinesses within the state’s cannabis industry. This event will provide a vital platform for microbusiness licensees to network and access resources crucial for their growth and integration into the broader market.

This year’s Q4 meetup will introduce a “Microbusiness Village,” designed to facilitate interactions between microbusiness owners and established industry professionals. This initiative showcases MoCannTrade’s commitment to the smaller enterprises that add to the diversity and vitality of Missouri’s cannabis sector.

During the event, a panel discussion titled “Ask The Industry” will be held from 3:15 p.m. to 4:15 p.m., where industry veterans will share their insights on crucial topics for microbusiness operators. Moderated by Eric Walter of Armstrong Teasdale and Samantha Blum, Chair of the Missouri Microbusiness Association (MMBA), the panel will cover a range of topics crucial for microbusiness operators.

Blum shared her enthusiasm for the upcoming event and the partnership with MoCannTrade. “MoCann has been instrumental in providing microbusinesses like ours a voice within the industry. They’ve quickly responded to our needs by integrating our representation at their events, which is crucial for our growth and visibility,” said Blum.

She further explained the genesis and mission of the MMBA, “We formed the MMBA to ensure that microbusinesses do not cannibalize each other but instead work together to strengthen our sector within the industry. It’s about sharing knowledge and resources, which MoCannTrade’s meetups facilitate beautifully.”

Blum described the formation of MMBA as a response to a gap she and others noticed in industry representation, “Once [cannabis] did become legal here, we knew that in the constitutional writing, it was going to be a micro industry, so we held out for that.”

   

She emphasized the practical benefits of the MMBA’s collaborative approach, “It’s really important that we understand how history has happened and how we need to protect each other. It’s a very delicate ecosystem.”

Empowering Microbusinesses through Practical Engagement

The meetup serves as both a networking event and a resource-sharing platform, where microbusinesses can learn from the experiences of their peers and established industry leaders. Blum highlighted this approach’s importance for the sustainability and success of microbusinesses: “Our goal is to bring our members into a setting where they can gain practical advice and make connections that are often out of reach due to financial constraints or lack of exposure.”

MoCannTrade has made this event accessible to non-member microbusiness licensees for a nominal fee, a step toward inclusivity for the micros. “The $35 ticket allows newer companies to experience the benefits of the meetup without a significant initial investment, which can be a barrier for many just starting out,” Blum added.

Beyond the microbusiness-centric activities, the meetup will also feature:

• A comprehensive brand and service provider expo.
• A program update from DCR Director Amy Moore.
• A legislative planning update from MoCann’s lobbying partner, Strategic Capital Consulting.
• The first annual MoCann Board of Directors – Industry Town Hall meeting.
• An after-event at the Vandivort Hotel Rooftop Lounge for additional networking opportunities.

As the Missouri cannabis industry continues to evolve, the role of associations like MMBA and MoCann Trade and events like MoCannTrade’s meetup are crucial in ensuring that all market sectors, especially microbusinesses, receive the support and opportunities needed to thrive. Through collaboration and shared learning, Missouri’s cannabis industry is setting a precedent for inclusive growth and community building.