The East Coast’s Premier Cannabis Convention Series
Since its inception in 2014, NECANN (New England Cannabis Network) has evolved from a modest consumer gathering into the largest and most influential cannabis industry event series on the East Coast. What began as a small show at The Castle at Park Plaza in Boston, capable of holding only around 1,000 people, has grown into a powerhouse convention series drawing thousands of industry professionals across multiple states.
A Decade of Growth and Influence
NECANN’s 10th anniversary in 2024 marked a significant milestone for the organization, which now hosts conventions in New Jersey, New York, Massachusetts, Vermont, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, and Connecticut. The flagship Boston event alone has seen attendance grow from approximately 9,000 to an estimated 10,000 participants in recent years, with the 2020 edition expanding to three exhibit halls to accommodate over 300 exhibitors.
Marc Shepard, Founder and President of NECANN, reflected on this journey: “NECANN is proud to share the 10th anniversary milestone with the region’s local industry leaders, advocates, entrepreneurs and knowledge seekers that continue to grow the cannabis industry in New England.”
Local Market Focus
What distinguishes NECANN from generic national cannabis conventions is its deliberate focus on regional market dynamics. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach, each NECANN event is tailored to its specific local market’s unique needs and opportunities. This collaborative approach has resulted in consistently high return on investment for exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees.
For instance, the New Jersey convention, held annually in Atlantic City since 2019, addresses the state’s specific regulatory landscape under the CREAMM Act, including its six license classes, $20 million Social Equity Fund, and the fact that only 37% of municipalities currently allow cannabis businesses. Similarly, the Vermont convention focuses on the state’s craft cannabis framework and its $139.2 million market.
Comprehensive Programming and Community Focus
NECANN events feature extensive educational programming designed to serve every facet of the industry. The 2026 New Jersey convention, for example, will offer four programming tracks with over 35 sessions covering topics ranging from branding and cultivation to business and regulatory issues, energy efficiency, and social equity opportunities.
The organization has also distinguished itself through its commitment to community building and social equity. The New England Cannabis Community Awards, introduced in 2019, spotlight and celebrate individuals and organizations making significant contributions to regional cannabis communities. Proceeds from these events have supported NECANN’s social equity scholarship program, which provides grants to eligible local cannabis businesses.
Industry observers have noted NECANN’s role in advancing social equity. As one keynote speaker reflected: “As the Northeast market grows, it’s clear that sustainable success must be built on education and social equity. New York’s commitment to these values—reflected in both regulation and corporate practice—sets a meaningful precedent for intentional, inclusive growth throughout the industry.”
The NECANN Cup and Industry Recognition
Since its debut in 2020, the NECANN Competition has become a respected third-party review platform recognizing excellence in cannabis products and ancillary products. Unlike flashy popularity contests built around marketing budgets, the NECANN Cup has developed real credibility among operators and consumers throughout New England, with winning carrying significant weight for brands.
Looking Ahead: 2026 Events
NECANN’s 2026 calendar features a robust lineup across the Northeast:
New Jersey (September 18-19) : The Atlantic City Convention Center will host what organizers anticipate as the largest gathering of cannabis industry brands, retailers, and businesses in the mid-Atlantic. Special guests include actor/musician and cannabis cultivator Jim Belushi, promoting his Belushi’s Farm brands, and New Jersey native rapper Redman, unveiling his new THC beverage brand.
Boston : The convention has expanded its programming to include a psychedelics industry track, reflecting growing operator interest in emerging therapeutic markets. Sessions will address price compression recovery strategies, delivery fleet optimization, and interstate commerce considerations as neighboring states mature their adult-use programs. The Massachusetts market, which crossed $10 billion in cumulative cannabis sales by October 2025, continues to be a focal point.
Vermont : Now scheduled for April (moved from May to accommodate growing season preparation), the convention addresses the state’s unique challenges, including licensing moratoriums and new Act 56 labeling requirements.
Rhode Island : The inaugural NECANN Rhode Island event arrives as the state’s market matures following adult-use legalization in May 2022. With the highest per-store average in the nation at approximately $17 million annually and 24 new retail licenses being awarded, the event offers unique opportunities for operators.
An Industry Maturation Snapshot
Beyond being trade shows, NECANN events serve as barometers for the industry’s health and direction. The 2026 Boston edition felt “less like a trade show and more like a snapshot of an industry fighting to mature without losing its soul,” reflecting the reality of a market that has survived price compression, overregulation, licensing delays, and political attacks.
As one industry observer noted: “Unlike newer cannabis markets still operating on hype alone, Massachusetts has become a proving ground. Operators here have already experienced the highs and lows of legalization. Survival requires execution, consistency, compliance, and community trust.”
For anyone seeking to understand the pulse of the East Coast cannabis industry—whether as an investor, entrepreneur, advocate, or consumer—NECANN has become essential territory.