The Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference 2025 exemplified the power of strategic industry convening, bringing together over 120 senior-level professionals for focused discussions on capital allocation, market expansion, and operational excellence. The 8-10th June event at Chicago’s Marriott Magnificent Mile provided a sophisticated platform for meaningful business development, reinforcing its reputation as the cannabis industry’s most valuable networking and dealmaking forum.
Event Overview
Benzinga’s Cannabis Capital Conference serves as the ultimate destination to raise capital, close deals, and find the perfect partners to take cannabis businesses to the next level. This year’s conference brought together industry giants and emerging companies alike, creating an environment where meaningful connections drive the industry forward.
Who Should Attend the Benzinga Conference in Future?
Cannabis Companies
- CEOs and founders seeking capital or partnerships
- Multi-state operators planning expansion
- Startups ready to pitch investors
Investors & Finance
- Private equity and venture capital firms
- Cannabis-focused investment funds
- Specialized lenders and financial institutions
Strategic Participants
Technology & Service Providers
- Cannabis tech companies (security, POS, compliance software)
- Real estate developers and brokers
- Legal, accounting, and consulting firms
Industry Operators
- Dispensary owners and cultivation facilities
- Processing and manufacturing companies
- Social equity and minority-owned businesses
Why Attend
- Capital Access – Direct investor connections and pitching opportunities
- Strategic Partnerships – Face-to-face networking with decision-makers
- Market Intelligence – Regulatory updates and industry trends
- Business Development – Customer acquisition and vendor partnerships
Who Can Benefit Most
Companies at growth stages seeking capital, expansion, or strategic partnerships. The conference’s track record of facilitating major deals and announcements (like Cure8’s partnership with Frank Mayer) makes it essential for serious cannabis industry participants looking to advance their market position.
Perfect for anyone ready to raise capital, announce partnerships, or scale their cannabis business.
Cure8’s Strategic Role at the Conference
One of the standout moments of the conference was Cure8’s significant presence and strategic announcement. Cure8, a leading cannabis security and technology services provider, announced a strategic partnership with Frank Mayer, an industry leader in custom digital kiosks and retail displays, which we kicked off at the Benzinga Cannabis Conference.
The partnership aims to set new standards for digital kiosks in cannabis retail, leveraging Cure8’s deep industry expertise and network to establish Frank Mayer’s kiosks as the industry norm.
By debuting this collaboration at the conference, Cure8 showcased its commitment to advancing retail technology in cannabis, supporting dispensaries with comprehensive IT, security, and customer experience solutions.
Cure8’s presence at the event reinforced its position as a comprehensive partner for cannabis businesses, offering guidance on a range of topics, including compliance and security, technology integration, and operational scaling.
The Cure8-Frank Mayer Partnership
This strategic alliance announced at the conference represents a significant development in cannabis retail technology:
- Enhanced Retail Solutions – Combining Cure8’s security expertise with Frank Mayer’s custom digital kiosk capabilities
- Comprehensive Service Offering – Creating a one-stop solution for cannabis retailers seeking both security and customer engagement technologies
- Market Expansion – Leveraging both companies’ strengths to capture a larger share of the cannabis technology market
Cure8’s Conference Participation
Cure8’s involvement in the conference demonstrated our commitment to:
- Industry Leadership – Positioning ourselves as a key technology partner for cannabis retailers
- Innovation Showcase – Demonstrating how security and technology solutions can enhance cannabis retail experiences
- Strategic Networking – Leveraging the conference to announce and launch our partnership with Frank Mayer
- Market Education – Sharing insights on cannabis security best practices and technology integration
Industry Impact and Future Implications
The 2025 Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference reinforced several key trends that will shape the industry moving forward:
Capital Access Remains Critical
The conference provided unparalleled networking opportunities designed to foster meaningful connections and drive the industry forward. With many cannabis companies still seeking capital for expansion, events like this remain crucial for connecting entrepreneurs with investors.
Technology Adoption is Essential
Companies like Cure8’s prominent role at the conference underscores how technology providers are becoming indispensable partners for cannabis businesses looking to scale efficiently and safely.
Collaboration Over Competition
The numerous partnership announcements and collaborative initiatives showcased at the event suggest that the cannabis industry is maturing toward a more collaborative ecosystem where strategic partnerships drive mutual success.
Location is Everything in Cannabis Finance
One of the most significant insights from the conference centred on the importance of strategic location selection. In cannabis, location isn’t just where you grow or sell—it’s the key to securing better financing, lower interest rates, and long-term success. Industry experts emphasized how top operators, real estate professionals, and financiers are securing and funding the best cannabis locations.
Diversity and Social Equity Remain Priorities
The conference’s commitment to diversity was evident through initiatives like the #InvestInHER lounge and partnerships with organizations like Latinas in Cannabis. These efforts continue to address the need for more inclusive participation in the cannabis industry.
Strategic Partnerships Drive Growth
The event catalyzed numerous strategic partnerships, with companies recognizing that collaboration often leads to more sustainable growth than going it alone in the competitive cannabis market.
Regulatory Reform & Hemp
Hopes for federal rescheduling and hemp reform remain high, with many viewing these as the top catalysts for industry growth in 2025.
Global Perspective
With discussions on European markets, especially Germany, the conference highlighted the growing importance of international regulatory shifts and cross-border opportunities
Looking Ahead
The success of the 2025 Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference sets the stage for continued growth and innovation in the cannabis industry. Key areas to watch include:
- Regulatory Evolution – As federal and state regulations continue to evolve, companies that can adapt quickly will have competitive advantages
- Technology Integration – The partnership between companies like Cure8 and Frank Mayer signals a trend toward comprehensive technology solutions
- Market Consolidation – Increased dealmaking activity suggests continued consolidation in the cannabis space
- International Expansion – Growing interest in international cannabis markets presents new opportunities for established players
What’s Next for Cannabis Tech?
The Benzinga 2025 conference confirmed that technology will separate the winners from the strugglers in the cannabis industry. Key trends to watch:
- AI-driven compliance automation
- Blockchain for supply chain transparency
- Stricter cybersecurity mandates from states
Final Words
The Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference 2025 proved that while the industry is maturing, technology and compliance remain the biggest hurdles—and opportunities. Staying ahead in this evolving landscape requires robust, adaptable solutions.
Secure your cannabis business with Cure8—the industry’s trusted partner for IT and security. Our comprehensive services help dispensaries, cultivators, and distributors remain compliant and protected at every stage. We stay ahead of evolving regulations and technology, ensuring your operations never miss a beat.
Let Cure8 handle your security, so you can focus on growing your business. Reach out today for a customized consultation and discover the peace of mind that comes with having Cure8 by your side every step of the way.
