Where Preparation Meets Power Players: Why Rachel Wright Chooses IgniteIt

In some markets, cannabis industry events can feel ubiquitous, leaving executives to question which ones are truly worth the time and resources. With so many options, it can be difficult to determine which conferences and forums consistently deliver meaningful insights, credible speakers and high-value connections. For many leaders, IgniteIt’s series of Market Spotlight events has become a go-to choice.

Rachel Wright, founder of the cannabis-focused accounting firm Verdant Strategies, has supported and attended IgniteIt (formerly Benzinga Cannabis) events for the past four years. Known for sharing practical guidance with operators and entrepreneurs, she has participated as a panelist four times alongside other industry leaders.

“IgniteIt panels are consistently well curated, with strong topics and true power players on stage. The IgniteIt team is extremely organized and well prepared, it’s honestly more structured and thought out than any panel I’ve been part of,” she tells IgniteIt in a written interview. “That level of preparation leads to better conversations and a stronger experience for both panelists and attendees.”

The discussions cover issues that matter to operators across markets and business models, including regulation, marketing, professional services and more. Wright said the format offers value for both established operators and newer entrants.

“IgniteIt events are a great way to get a real pulse on where the cannabis industry is headed and how quickly it’s evolving,” Wright explains. “They’re valuable for long-time operators like myself as well as for people entering the industry who want to learn from experienced voices. Elliot, Patrick and their team do an excellent job curating the right mix of people and conversations, which makes the events consistently relevant and impactful.”

Upcoming IgniteIt Events

IgniteIt’s Market Spotlight events and the flagship Chicago Cannabis Capital Conference convene regulators, executives, lawmakers and other industry stakeholders for conversations focused on market realities and business strategy. For agenda details, registration and scholarship information for minority- and women-owned businesses, visit https://events.igniteit.com/. Upcoming IgniteIt events include:

• New Jersey Policy & Capital Forum
  February 10, 2026 — Jersey City, NJ
• Ohio Valley Market Spotlight
  April 30, 2026 — Cincinnati, OH
• Chicago Cannabis Capital Conference ’26
  June 14–16, 2026 — Chicago, IL
• Colorado Market Spotlight
  September 2026 — Denver, CO
• Los Angeles Market Spotlight
  October 2026 — Los Angeles, CA