We are delighted to announce IWC’s annual 2021 Fall Harvest Celebration. Join IWC as industry leaders will offer insight into the Food and Beverage sector of the cannabis industry. This 6-week ongoing event will focus on transitioning from CPG into cannabis, cannabis offerings, trends in food and beverage, and incorporating cannabis into menus.

As Illinois’ top cannabis community networking organization, we’re proud to bring together cannabis communities and business leaders to celebrate both their success and the budding opportunities for women within the Food and Beverage sector of the cannabis industry.

Attendees will learn from cannabis business leaders that build awareness for our industry and create jobs to grow our local economies. It’s a can’t-miss to build connections and knowledge within the cannabis industry—see you online!

Special Guest
Mindy Segal, Chef & Co-Founder, Mindy’s Chef-Led Artisanal Edibles

James Beard award-winning chef Mindy Segal is the creative force behind Cresco Lab’s flagship line of artisanal edibles. Chef Segal pushes the boundaries of taste and texture, crafting thoughtful combinations of ingredients that are both unexpected and familiar. She has trained in some of Chicago’s most influential restaurants and is currently Chef/Owner of Mindy’s Bakery in Chicago’s Bucktown neighborhood along with additional beloved Chicago restaurants.

Networking and Cooking Demos TBA soon!

Program:

Tuesday, October 26, 1 PM – 2 PM
Cannabis Industry Trends

Join us as we dive deep into trends within the cannabis industry. This session will provide insight into consumer behavior within the cannabis industry, such as how consumers are shopping, current flavor trends, consumption methods, and trends affecting the many diverse categories. 

Moderator: Laurie Parfitt, Principal, LKP Impact Consulting

Panelists:
Jocelyn Sheltraw, Director of Industry Relations, Headset
Michele Scott, Senior Analyst, Mintel
Jamie Schau, Senior Insights Manager, Brightfield Group

Wednesday, November 3, 1 PM – 2 PM
Cannabis on the Menu

This session will offer insight into current trends in cannabis-infused menu items. Join us as we hear from cannabis entrepreneurs regarding their career, their journey of building a cannabis-infused branded business, and food safety within the industry.

Moderator: Alison Nelson, Edible Manufacturing Technician, Cresco Labs 

Panelists:
Jeni Cohen, Founder, Flame Princess Confections
Manny Mendoza, Executive Chef, Herbal Notes
Rocio Vargas, Executive Chef, Planda Group
Lorraine Nguyen, Executive Chef, Founder Cần Sa

Tuesday, November 9, 1 PM – 2 PM
Transitioning from CPG into Cannabis

This strategic session will provide insight for CPG professionals transitioning into cannabis. Join us as we learn more about growth within the cannabis industry, the similarities and differences between both industries, and what steps you need to take to break into this budding industry.

Speaker: Laurie Parfitt, Principal, LKP Impact Consulting

Wednesday, November 10, 10:30 – 11 AM
Fireside Chat with Mindy Segal

James Beard award-winning chef Mindy Segal, the creative force behind Cresco Lab’s flagship line of artisanal edibles will join us in a candid conversation to share her story and transition into the world of edibles.

Tuesday, November 16, 1 PM
Cannabis in Food and Beverage

This session will provide an opportunity to gain insight into the çannabis-infused food and beverage market. Join us for an overview of the growing opportunities, current, and future trends, and additional industry insights. 

Moderator: Laurie Parfitt, Principal, LKP Impact Consulting

Panelists:
Megan Klein, Founder, Little Saints
Megan Coffey, R & D Lab Manager, Cresco Labs
Joline Rivera, Founder, Kitchen Toke Media and Red Belly Honey
Lauren Tamburro, VP of R & D, Vertosa
Jenny Mountjoy, Creative Consultant, Mountjoy Sparkling

For sponsorship opportunities contact us at communications@ilwomenincannabis.org

This hallmark event will be held virtually concerning the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

Illinois Women in Cannabis is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization committed to serving, supporting, and advancing the careers of women connected to the regulated cannabis industry. Through education and community building, we fulfill our mission to empower women of all ages and backgrounds to build strong relationships, networks, and careers in the cannabis industry.