This past weekend, I had the privilege of attending the NOCO Hemp Conference held in the picturesque town of Estes, Colorado. As someone traveling from the sunny, sea-level climate to of Florida, the adjustment to Colorado’s altitude was a bit of a challenge. My first day was marked by shortness of breath, a slight headache, and dry mouth, common symptoms of altitude sickness, but the excitement of the conference and the stunning drive into Estes made it all worthwhile.
The Journey to Estes
The journey into Estes was nothing short of phenomenal. Along the way, I stopped at a quaint local shop specializing in cherry-infused products. Everything from desserts and snacks to beverages captured the essence of local flavors, providing a delightful pit stop before reaching the conference venue. The drive itself, with its breathtaking inclines and ear-popping altitudes, was an adventure. Although the local drivers seemed a tad too fast for my liking on the winding two-lane highway, the sunny and bright day made the experience feel truly epic.
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First Impressions
Upon arriving at the expo hall, the atmosphere was vibrant and welcoming. We were greeted with warm smiles, setting a positive tone as we began our exploration. Trekking from table to table, I had the opportunity to meet a myriad of vendors, each showcasing innovative and intriguing hemp-based products.
Strengthening Our Community Through Connections
The “Sow The Land Hemp Farming Program” by Minorities for Medical Marijuana (M4MM) is set to directly benefit from all the valuable connections I made at the NOCO Hemp Expo. My plan is to pass these contacts to Stanley Atkins ll, our National Program Director. Stanley will then follow up and craft a pathway to distribute these resources to our members. Through our webinars, educational programs, and symposia, we aim to empower our community with the knowledge and opportunities gleaned from these new connections. This collaborative effort is essential as we continue to support and expand the reach of our initiatives within the hemp farming sector.
Standout Vendors
A few vendors particularly stood out with their unique contributions to the hemp industry. Pakamana a woman-owned business, caught my attention with its range of CBD-infused products including dog treats, facial products, and skin moisturizers. The passion and care put into these products were evident, reflecting the broader potential of hemp in daily wellness routines.
Another fascinating encounter was with a Hemp and Block a vendor pioneering in hempcrete and black material used to construct new homes.. The insights shared about his journey to integrate hemp into residential building materials were not only enlightening but also a testament to the versatility and sustainability of hemp.
The CBD Vending Machine Business
Perhaps one of the most intriguing concepts presented was the CBD vending machine business. This novel approach to selling CBD infused products through vending machines positioned in high-traffic areas such as malls, hospitals, airports, and train stations presents an exciting proposition. It offers convenience and accessibility, pushing the boundaries of traditional retail.
Learning Lessons on Hemp: Opportunities for Sustainability and Entrepreneurship
The NOCO Hemp Expo was an eye-opening experience that offered a deep dive into the versatile uses of hemp and the significant opportunities it offers for consumers and entrepreneurs. Here are some key insights into how hemp is paving the way in sustainability, consumer packaged goods, industrial applications, and as a food source:
Hemp and Sustainability
Hemp stands out as a champion of sustainability. Its growth requires considerably less water compared to traditional crops like cotton and doesn’t require the use of chemical pesticides or fertilizers. This makes it a sustainable choice for clothing, building materials, and more. The insights from the hemp flooring vendor highlighted hemp’s potential in creating sustainable building solutions that are not only eco-friendly but also durable and aesthetically pleasing.
Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG)
In the CPG sector, hemp is breaking new ground. Products such as CBD-infused skin moisturizers, facial products, and dog treats, like those from Panamaka, showcase hemp’s utility in everyday consumer goods. These products offer natural alternatives to their synthetic counterparts, appealing to health-conscious consumers looking for eco-friendly options.
Industrial Uses
Hemp’s industrial applications are vast. The plant’s fibers are used in creating everything from bioplastics to insulation, contributing to less reliance on non-renewable resources. The strength and versatility of hemp fibers make them ideal for a wide range of products, reducing environmental footprints across various industries.
Food Source
Hemp seeds are a nutrition powerhouse, packed with essential amino acids, vitamins, and omega fatty acids. The expo featured various hemp-based foods, highlighting how this plant can help address food security issues while providing healthy, sustainable food options. Hemp seeds can be used in a variety of dietary products, from oils and protein powders to snacks and baking ingredients, making it a versatile food source.
Opportunities for Entrepreneurs
The diversity in hemp’s applications opens up numerous entrepreneurial opportunities. From farming and production to marketing and sales, there is potential at every stage of the supply chain. Innovations like the CBD vending machine business model also illustrate how entrepreneurs can think outside traditional retail frameworks to capitalize on this growing market.
New Connections and Lasting Impressions
As the NOCO Hemp Expo came to a close, the experience was enriched by the new connections and friends I made, each adding unique value to my journey. Among these, a special shout-out is deserved for Coach Harris from the Georgia Hemp Association and M4MM Georgia State Director.
His dedication to ensuring that black and brown farmers and entrepreneurs find their footing in the hemp industry is nothing short of inspirational. Coach Harris is a beloved figure at the expo, not only for his tireless advocacy but also for his genuine passion for the hemp plant.
Each year, Coach Harris hosts an after-hours networking mixer that has become a highlight of the expo. His world-famous Cajun shrimp is a hit among attendees, creating a perfect atmosphere for lively discussions and building relationships. It’s this kind of community spirit that truly showcases the supportive nature of the hemp industry.
Looking ahead, I am hopeful that next year we will see Minorities for Medical Marijuana (M4MM) at the expo, encouraging more members, friends, and supporters to engage and explore the myriad opportunities hemp has to offer. My attendance at this year’s NOCO Hemp Expo was not just an educational journey but also a personal growth experience. The connections I’ve made are ones I plan to pursue with enthusiasm, hopeful for what the future holds in this dynamic industry.
My experience at the NOCO Hemp Expo not only broadened my understanding of hemp but also highlighted the tangible impacts it can have on sustainability and entrepreneurship. Hemp offers a promising path forward in many sectors, making it a valuable crop for the future of both the economy and the planet. This exploration into the world of hemp has left me optimistic about its role in creating more sustainable, health-conscious products and innovative business models.
Here’s to the new friendships, future collaborations, and the continued growth of the hemp community! Until next year, NOCO!
Click here www.nocohempexpo.com to learn more.
Roz McCarthy
The Blog
Founder/CEO
M4MM & Black Buddha Cannabis
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