Since cannabis legalization over five years ago, the industry remains dominated by men and hindered by the same glass ceiling we see in conventional industries.
The inaugural Radicle Femmes, coinciding with International Women’s Day 2024, marked a significant step forward, sparking conversations on redefining industry norms and embracing the power of diversity. Hosted by Marigold PR and sponsored by the Ontario Cannabis Store (OCS), Panther Group, Sister Merci, and Solei, this groundbreaking event marked Canada’s largest networking platform for women in cannabis, centred around the IWD theme “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.”
In recent years we have seen an increase in women taking on high-ranking positions in the industry, now accounting for 39% of cannabis executives across the board. Another recent study outlined by Forbes indicates that women-owned businesses oftentimes outperform their counterparts in terms of revenue and ROI. With this in mind, women have been making great strides for larger representation in the cannabis industry and beyond, and their progress and achievements can’t be ignored.
Empowering Women in Cannabis
Connections and networking on International Women’s Day
Through a series of panels, discussions, and networking sessions, the event brought together like-minded individuals with one shared goal: to elevate, celebrate and advance women in weed. Radicle Femmes provided a platform for women entrepreneurs, professionals, and advocates to share their experiences, insights, and expertise. From business owners and marketers to retail decision-makers and LP representatives, the event drew a diverse audience and reflected the industry’s unique landscape and collective hunger for progress.
Panel discussions Women in Leadership and Compliant Marketing and Brand Building sparked profound conversations and showcased a diverse group of industry leaders dissecting crucial topics like gender diversity, the need for greater representation in leadership, brand strategy, digital marketing, and compliance hurdles. The esteemed speakers opened up the floor to questions from the audience looking to leverage opportunities and address systemic challenges.
Radicle Femmes’ expert speakers included Lucy Hu, Sherry Boodram, Tanya Watkins, Trina Fraser, Abi Roach, Allison Disney, Anna Li, and Katie Pringle, who shared stories and provided guidance for navigating challenges and seizing opportunities within the industry.
Learn more about our speakers on Radicle Femmes Instagram.
Navigating Gender-Based Hurdles
Gender equality often comes with other barriers, with access to funding being one the cannabis industry knows all too well. As per the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub, women-owned businesses receive on average % than companies owned by men. Cannabis is no exception to this trend, and securing funding remains a significant challenge for women looking to break into this emerging industry.
Radicle Femmes acted as a platform for actionable advice. Discussions at the event addressed the obstacles women face in accessing capital and provided insights into navigating investment landscapes. Radicle Femmes’ Pathway to Funding segment, led by Jordan Tritt of Panther Group, spoke to the challenges and opportunities for acquiring sustainable business funding in the cannabis space.
Amplifying Women’s Voices
Beyond the panels and discussions, Radicle Femmes offered attendees opportunities for networking and collaboration. The event fostered a sense of togetherness and purpose within the cannabis community and overall, was a celebration of solidarity and shared ambition.
While progress has been made, the journey towards true gender equality is ongoing. Radicle Femmes served as a catalyst for change, empowering women and driving positive momentum towards a more inclusive and prosperous future. Through insightful discussions and inspiring speakers, the event nurtured a sense of progression and determination to shape a brighter future for women in the industry.
To stay up-to-date on women-focused initiatives and the Radicle Femmes event, follow @radiclefemmes on Instagram or sign up for our weekly newsletter.
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