This “Shark Tank” Style Event Puts Cannabis Startups in Front of Big Investors

[dropcap class=”kp-dropcap”]F[/dropcap]riday Oct. 23, CULTURE attended The Seed Series, hosted by Direct Cannabis Network, which is where startup contestants give a tenacious panel of investors a  presentation of their product. Three early-stage cannabis startups, as well as three established canna-businesses, competed with their presentations at the premiere event in downtown San Diego, CA.

Unprepared entrepreneurs beware—  the guest panelists, Lincoln Fish, CEO of Outco Labs, and Joshua Hartsel, Ph.D., of SpeakEasy Dispensary, expected to see clear, concise, key points within presentations, as well as clearly defined numbers to present to potential investors. The people of Southern California wanted an investor pitch showdown business-to-business event for cannabis businesses, and Direct Cannabis Network delivered.

The sold out event started off quick. The first presentation was met with heavy criticism. Each following entrepreneur nervously exhibited their presentation; however, each business received valuable information critical for attracting investor appeal. Startups were given the chance to network with other professionals in the industry, while winners will have the opportunity to pitch their company to a private line-up of investors.

Adelia Lorena Carrillo and Ali Fakhri’s background in business has culminated in their latest event. Fakhri and Carrillo describe the Seed Series as “The networking event for entrepreneurs, investors, professionals, media and advocates in the cannabis industry.”

The keynote speaker was Stuart Tomc, VP of CannaVest™. Mr. Tomc is a nutritional expert and authority on dietary supplements. Exhibitors and attendees include The Skin and Wellness Club, KB Pure Essentials, G Pharma Labs, Paradise Candy, Jane’s Brew, Altai Brands, The Honey Flower Collective, Genius Pipe, Ma’s Kush’s Natural, The Herbal Chef, Heaven Grown, CannaMom, Tantra Vapes, Cannabucha, Isodiol, Running Fish, and more.

All attendees received generous gift bags and endless samples at the event. The Seed Series takes place on the third Friday each month at various locations in Southern California. The next event is scheduled for Nov. 20^.