Steve Hoffman 4/14/23 Steve Hoffman 4/14/23

NoCo9 Hemp Pitch and WAFBA Award Winners Exemplify Innovation, Dedication in the Hemp Industry

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The ninth annual NoCo Hemp Expo, held March 29-31 in Colorado Springs, featured an awards ceremony and pitch slam.

LOVELAND, CO (April 11, 2023) – This year’s WAFBA Awards of Excellence were presented during a lively welcome reception to kick off the NoCo9 Hemp Expo at The Broadmoor Resort in Colorado Springs. Winners were announced to cheers and applause as industry participants gathered to celebrate the growth of the industry and its dedicated pioneers.

“I’m so glad to see everyone gathered again in the spirit of optimism and growth,” said Morris Beegle, producer of NoCo9 Hemp Expo and president of WAFBA, who presented many of the awards. “It’s great to see so many advances in the industry since last year.”

WAFBA Awards 2023:

Elevation Award (Advancing the Industry Through Impeccable Leadership)
Melissa Nelson
Someone who drives the industry forward by breaking down barriers, thus paving the way for others. They are an advocate who focuses on developing others while being committed to their own personal development. Their impact goes beyond the industry. Their values led them to influence positive change for marginalized, medically challenged or under-resourced individuals, communities and nonprofits.
2022 recipient: Carla Boyd

Community Economic Impact Award
IND Hemp
Someone who has demonstrated extraordinary stewardship by positively impacting their community through job creation and opportunity, contributing to clean-up, strengthening financial stability, inclusivity and leading by example. Dedicated to educating their community and developing bonds that will further their social impact.
2022 recipient: Melissa Nelson

Mother Earth Award (Lady of Agriculture)
Anndrea Hermann
A woman whose entrepreneurial spirit has ushered a new era of business leaders through her skills and execution in agriculture. She is a visionary who has cultivated relationships through education, inclusivity and collaboration. Her determination and dedication support our farmers and contribute immensely to building the supply chain, making her a trailblazer and an inspiration to others.
2022 recipient: Winona LaDuke

Best New Tech Award/Tech Innovation
Global Fiber Processing -- Structural Hemp Block
Bast Fibre Tech -- Sero Natural Hemp Fibre
A person or group whose work is at the forefront of the industry with their game-changing technical tools for improvement and impact to further the hemp industry. Their brand has grown exponentially over the last year, whose product or services filled a gap in the market or both.
2022 recipient: Corbett Hefner and Formation Ag

Carbon Solution Award
Patrick Brown -- Hempfinity/Brown Family Farms
Acting as a change agent through their processes and efforts by creating ways to reduce carbon emissions with their own practices and/or through the products they produce. They lead the way in lowering their carbon footprint while providing direction for others to do the same in the joint effort against the carbon crisis.
2022 recipient: Sergiy “Doctor Hemphouse” Kovalenkov

Legacy Award
Chris Boucher
This award is to honor a remarkable person whose legacy has and will continue to embolden others. They are well-respected and their efforts have not gone unrecognized. Their passion for hemp has not wavered. Their perseverance remained steady through challenges they may have faced over time.
2022 recipient: Tim Shaughnessy

The Das Award/aka The Service Award
Alex White Plume
Service is what life is all about. Service doesn’t have to be big and grandiose to be meaningful and make a difference. Goodness is the only investment that never fails. As we serve others, we are working on ourselves; every act, every word, every gesture of genuine compassion naturally nourishes our own hearts as well. Our rewards in life will always be in direct ratio to our service. Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world.
2022 recipient: Agua Das Ellis

Hemp Pitch Winners 2023
This year’s NoCo Hemp Expo also featured the second annual NoCo Hemp Pitch, where six finalist companies vied for prizes, including legal fees and other services.

Sponsored by Michael Best, a leading law firm serving the hemp and cannabis markets, the NoCo Hemp Pitch competition gave the finalists six minutes each to pitch their brand or idea to a live audience and to judges, who included hemp industry start-up consultants, attorneys and investors.

This year’s winners:
1st place: Bee Delightful, led by Skyler Johnstone and master beekeeper Daniel Weaver, produces wildflower honey from rescue bees in Central Texas and infuses the raw honey with a carefully extracted, naturally occurring cannabidiol (CBD) from organic hemp farms in Colorado, Oregon and Kentucky.

2nd place: Pure BioPlastics, led by Ed Lehrburger out of Colorado, creates hemp fiber produced by PureHemp, which has been manufactured and sold into various markets to make first-generation hemp plastics. During the past five years, the company has developed a new technology to convert hemp stalks into 100% bioplastics (second-generation hemp plastics).

Tree Free Hemp Charity Golf Challenge
The team from Sawyer Labs/Trusted Harvest won the first annual Tree Free Hemp Charity Golf Challenge, to benefit the Realm of Caring Foundation.

2024 Hemp Expo Announced
The 10th NoCo Hemp Expo will take place next year at The Broadmoor Resort in Colorado Springs, from March 20-22, 2024. To exhibit or sponsor, click here.

First Citizens Bank, EarthX, Patagonia Led Distinguished Group of Sponsors
NoCo Hemp Expo is pleased to recognize our Sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor First Citizens Bank. “Having a leading, agriculture-focused financial institution such as First Citizens Bank, with its 100-plus-year history of serving farmers and ag-related businesses, step up and serve as Presenting Sponsor of this year’s NoCo Hemp Expo is a huge statement, providing vital credibility and legitimization for the industry at a time when it’s needed most,” said Beegle. “We’re also thrilled to welcome EarthX as our Environmental NGO partner and Patagonia as Sustainable Apparel Sponsor. Additional lead sponsors include Global Fiber Processing, Michael Best, CannaConsortium, Advanced Bio-Materials Technologies, Divita Hemp Block & Weaving Vibes. We are very excited about these categories that bring focus to areas where hemp can make a difference in sustainability and improving the environment.”

About NoCo Hemp Expo
For a decade, NoCo Hemp Expo — the world’s most comprehensive industrial hemp exposition and conference — has brought together international business and government leaders, academics, nonprofits, media and the public to collaborate on important initiatives, opportunities and solutions for the future of a crop and an industry that can have significant positive impact on human, animal and planetary health.

NoCo is produced by We Are For Better Alternatives (WAFBA), a leading organization dedicated to the advancement and advocacy of hemp farming, processing, production, innovation, education and legalization. WAFBA also is the publisher of Let’s Talk Hemp, the industry’s leading news source. Learn more about the hemp and cannabis industry and subscribe to the latest news at www.letstalkhemp.com.

Contact
Morris Beegle, WAFBA, info@nocohempexpo.com
Steven Hoffman, Compass Natural, steve@compassnaturalmarketing.com, tel 303.807.1042

Steve Hoffman 4/4/23 Steve Hoffman 4/4/23

NoCo9 Speakers Urge Industry Unity Moving Forward

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The ninth annual NoCo Hemp Expo featured numerous speakers who emphasized the importance of the hemp industry heading into the future with shared goals and values.

LOVELAND, CO (April 4, 2023) – The 9th annual NoCo Hemp Expo, the world’s most comprehensive hemp business conference and trade show, featured speakers from all over the hemp business world, who came together to move the industry forward with examinations of policy, processing, supply chain and opportunity. Over three days of programming, speakers and workshops focused on the need for a united voice if the industry is to achieve its potential.

In his opening remarks, show producer Morris Beegle noted that industry leaders agree on 95% of what needs to be done to advance the hemp supply chain. “We need to leave the 5% behind and join hands to march with one voice to make this hemp industry what we know it can be,” he said.

Longtime industry leader and cannabis legal expert Bob Hoban echoed the message, urging hemp industry participants to look at their competition as “co-opetition” and reminding the audience that the hemp supply chain is complex. “Everyone is under the misconception that they can do things on their own,” he said.

Unprecedented Partnership and Collaboration
Jared Stanley, chief operating officer of CBD company Charlotte’s Web, said partnerships like the one his firm has with Major League Baseball will propel the hemp industry’s success. “Education is the foundation of our partnership,” he said. Stanley also noted that the company’s mission and vision “aligned” with the MLB’s, with both organizations dedicated to player wellness. It is the first such partnership for a CBD brand and a national athletic league.

In an unprecedented meeting, over 50 participants from more than 10 hemp advocacy and policy organizations gathered to emphasize the points where they agree on moving federal policy ahead. U.S. Hemp Roundtable General Counsel Jonathan Miller opened the meeting by saying that he hoped participants would stay positive and work together to gain more policy advantages for the industry.

Expo producer Morris Beegle was upbeat.

“I have always focused on optimism, positivity and bringing industry stakeholders together,” Beegle said. “I’m pleased with the energy and outcome of this year's three-day show.”

NoCo Hemp Expo will take place again next year at The Broadmoor Resort in Colorado Springs, from March 20-22, 2024.

2024 NoCo10 Announced
The 10th NoCo event will be held at The Broadmoor from March 20-22, 2024. To exhibit or sponsor, click here.

Contact
Morris Beegle, WAFBA, info@nocohempexpo.com
Steven Hoffman, Compass Natural, steve@compassnaturalmarketing.com, tel 303.807.1042

Steve Hoffman 3/27/23 Steve Hoffman 3/27/23

NoCo9 Kicks Off at the Broadmoor Resort Newly Renovated to Include Green Initiatives

The ninth annual NoCo Hemp Expo begins Tuesday with a charity golf tournament followed by three robust days of programming in Colorado Springs

LOVELAND, CO (March 27, 2023) – The 9th annual NoCo Hemp Expo, the world’s most comprehensive hemp business conference and trade show, will kick off with the Tree Free Hemp Charity Golf Challenge, a 10-hole golf tournament, from noon-4 p.m. on Tuesday, March 28. Players will follow a special format as they enjoy the outing at the newly renovated Broadmoor Resort.

The golf courses are just one part of the historic Broadmoor that has been completely overhauled with green initiatives in mind. The courses have been redesigned to be certified Audubon Sanctuaries, a stringent process that requires restoration of native bird and wildlife habitats. Over 50 acres of highly maintained turf grass have been replaced with native varieties of grasses and wildflowers. Irrigation and water reduction measures have been updated.

“NoCo is excited to partner with the Broadmoor to produce this year’s event. The environmental measures they have taken mirror the commitment of many in the hemp community to reduce our impact on the environment,” said Morris Beegle, producer of NoCo Hemp Expo, who noted that the 2024 and 2025 NoCo Expos will also be held at the Broadmoor.

The resort has also been improved with a state-of-the-art energy management system, updated insulation and thermal windows, water conservation systems, venue-wide recycling of all possible materials and an electricity reduction program, among other environmental measures in the resort’s Green Initiatives program.

About NoCo9:

Schedule at a Glance
- Tree Free Hemp Charity Golf Challenge, Tuesday, March 28
- Advocacy & Policy Conference, Wednesday, March 29
- Lake Terrace Welcome Party & WAFBA Awards of Excellence, Wednesday, March 29
- Business & Investment Conference, Thursday, March 30
- 2nd Annual NoCo Hemp Pitch, Thursday, March 30
- Agriculture & Academia Conference, Friday, March 31
- Experience Hemp Expo Hall, Thursday and Friday, March 30-31
- ”Garden of the Hemp Gods” NoCo9 After Party, Friday, March 31

Social and Networking Events at NoCo9:
Attendees can also expect a robust set of business networking and social opportunities, beginning with the WAFBA Awards of Excellence Celebration and Welcome Party on the evening of Wednesday, March 29, 6:30-9 p.m., the first day of NoCo Hemp Expo. Outstanding individuals and/or groups in the hemp industry will be recognized at the ceremony to be held during the event and will feature the music of Dave Beegle and Justin Boot and the G**Damn Ranchhand Band.

Closing the conference will be The Garden of the Hemp Gods Celebration -- The Official 2023 NoCo Hemp Expo After Party -- on Friday, March 31, at 8 p.m., where attendees can wind down, let loose and finish their visit with the high-energy rhythm and blues of Erica Brown and The Lionel Young Band. Festivities will continue until midnight in the beautiful Broadmoor Ballroom.

Experience Hemp Expo Hall – The World of Hemp Under One Roof
In addition to three days of comprehensive education, keynote presentations, workshops and seminars, NoCo9 will feature the Experience Hemp Expo Hall in The Broadmoor’s new, state-of-the-art exhibition facilities. Featuring a world of hemp and business opportunities, the Expo Hall will allow NoCo9 attendees to sample wares, learn about products and businesses, hold meetings and visit exhibitors. Hundreds of various hemp products and services will be available, including apparel, food, beverages, CBD supplements, body care, equipment, seeds and genetics, processing, manufacturing and white label services, raw materials and more. The Experience Hemp Expo Hall also will feature specialized zones, including:

Divita Hemp Block Demo Zone & Solution Circle – Visit this special educational zone on the trade show floor for solo presentations, panels, demos and workshops from experts and specialists innovating with hemp across all industries, from hemp textiles to medicinal applications of cannabinoids, to using hemp in artisan craft production, as well as in building and construction.

The Broadmoor Offers Special NoCo Hemp Expo Rates
NoCo Hemp Expo will take place March 29-31, 2023, at one of Colorado’s most historic resorts, The Broadmoor. With roots dating back to the late 1800s and located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs features a world-class setting, state-of-the-art meeting and convention space, a lake, walking paths, 36-hole golf course, spa, restaurants and lodging at a special rate for NoCo Hemp Expo attendees. Recently remodeled, The Broadmoor is committed to sustainability and has been awarded a Forbes Five-Star resort rating every year since 1960.

First Citizens Bank, EarthX, Patagonia Lead Distinguished Group of Sponsors
NoCo Hemp Expo is pleased to recognize our Sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor First Citizens Bank. “Having a leading, agriculture-focused financial institution such as First Citizens Bank, with its 100-plus-year history of serving farmers and ag-related businesses, step up and serve as Presenting Sponsor of this year’s NoCo Hemp Expo is a huge statement, providing vital credibility and legitimization for the industry at a time when it’s needed most,” said Beegle. “We’re also thrilled to welcome EarthX as our Environmental NGO partner and Patagonia as Sustainable Apparel Sponsor. Additional lead sponsors include Global Fiber Processing, Michael Best, CannaConsortium, Advanced Bio-Materials Technologies, Divita Hemp Block & Weaving Vibes. We are very excited about these categories to bring focus to areas where hemp can make a difference in sustainability and improving the environment.”

Exhibit and Sponsor
For more information on sponsorship and exhibiting, please visit https://www.nocohempexpo.com/sponsors-and-exhibitors-request/

Register Here for NoCo9
Visit https://www.nocohempexpo.com/ticket-sales/

About NoCo Hemp Expo
For nearly a decade, NoCo Hemp Expo — the world’s most comprehensive industrial hemp exposition and conference — has brought together international business and government leaders, academics, nonprofits, media and the public to collaborate on important initiatives, opportunities and solutions for the future of a crop and an industry that can have significant positive impact on human, animal and planetary health.

The 9th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo is produced by We Are For Better Alternatives (WAFBA), a leading organization dedicated to the advancement and advocacy of hemp farming, processing, production, innovation, education and legalization. WAFBA also is the publisher of Let’s Talk Hemp, the industry’s leading news source. Learn more about the hemp and cannabis industry and subscribe to the latest news at www.letstalkhemp.com.

Contact
Morris Beegle, WAFBA, info@nocohempexpo.com
Steven Hoffman, Compass Natural, steve@compassnaturalmarketing.com, tel 303.807.1042

Steve Hoffman 3/21/23 Steve Hoffman 3/21/23

Golf Challenge Among Many Special Events at Hemp Expo

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The ninth annual NoCo Hemp Expo will feature a 10-hole charity golf tournament as well as parties, music and networking opportunities.

What: 9th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo
When: March 29-31, 2023
Where: The Broadmoor Resort, Colorado Springs, CO
Agenda: https://letstalkhemp.swoogo.com/nocohempexpo/agenda
Info: https://www.nocohempexpo.com/
Register for NoCo9 tickets: https://www.nocohempexpo.com/ticket-sales/

LOVELAND, CO (March 21, 2023) – The 9th annual NoCo Hemp Expo, the world’s most comprehensive hemp business conference and trade show, will kick off with the Tree Free Hemp Charity Golf Challenge, a 10-hole golf tournament, from noon-4 p.m. on Tuesday, March 28. Players will follow a special format as they enjoy the outing at the world-class Broadmoor Resort. Proceeds will be donated to the Realm of Caring Foundation.

Founded in 2013, Realm of Caring (RoC) serves anyone in need of more information about cannabinoid therapies. Through revolutionary research, innovative education, and life-changing grants, RoC seeks to facilitate and encourage the mainstream acceptance of transformative, plant-powered therapies to benefit individuals and families and serve health care providers as well as the hemp and cannabis industries.

“NoCo is happy to be able to support Realm of Caring with an event that will allow conference attendees to get out, do good and have some fun together,” said Morris Beegle, producer of NoCo Hemp Expo and president and founder of We Are For Better Alternatives (WAFBA). His company Tree Free Hemp, a hemp paper company, is sponsoring the golf tournament.

Social and Networking Events at NoCo9:
Attendees can also expect a robust set of business networking and social opportunities, beginning with the WAFBA Awards of Excellence Celebration and Welcome Party on the evening of Wednesday, March 29, 6:30-9 p.m., the first day of NoCo Hemp Expo. Outstanding individuals and/or groups in the hemp industry will be recognized at a ceremony to be held during the event and will feature the music of Dave Beegle and Justin Boot and the G**Damn Ranchhand Band.

Closing the conference will be The Garden of the Hemp Gods Celebration -- the Official 2023 NoCo Hemp Expo After Party -- on Friday, March 31, at 8 p.m., when attendees can relax and finish their visit with the smooth sound of Erica Brown and The Lionel Young Band. Festivities will continue until midnight in the beautiful Broadmoor Ballroom.

About NoCo9:

Schedule at a Glance
– Tree Free Hemp Charity Golf Challenge, Tuesday, March 28
– Advocacy & Policy Conference, Wednesday, March 29
– Lake Terrace Welcome Party & WAFBA Awards of Excellence, Wednesday, March 29
– Business & Investment Conference, Thursday, March 30
– 2nd Annual NoCo Hemp Pitch, Thursday, March 30
– Agriculture & Academia Conference, Friday, March 31
– Experience Hemp Expo Hall, Thursday and Friday, March 30-31
– “Garden of the Hemp Gods” NoCo9 After Party, Friday, March 31

Exhibit and Sponsor
For more information on sponsorship and exhibiting, please visit https://www.nocohempexpo.com/sponsors-and-exhibitors-request/

Register Here for NoCo9
Visit https://www.nocohempexpo.com/ticket-sales/

Contact
Morris Beegle, WAFBA, info@nocohempexpo.com
Steven Hoffman, Compass Natural, steve@compassnaturalmarketing.com, tel 303.807.1042

Steve Hoffman 3/14/23 Steve Hoffman 3/14/23

Finalists Announced for NoCo Hemp Pitch Competition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The second annual NoCo Hemp Pitch will feature six companies selected to vie for over $10,000 in legal fees and other services.

LOVELAND, CO (March 14, 2023) – As hemp industry leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, policymakers and advocates prepare to convene at the 9th annual NoCo Hemp Expo, the world’s most comprehensive hemp business conference and trade show, on March 29-31, 2023, at the historic Broadmoor Resort & Convention Center in Colorado Springs, finalists have been announced for the annual Hemp Pitch Competition.

“We are excited to see what these innovators bring to this year’s competition and how they are making a difference in the hemp industry,” said Morris Beegle, producer of NoCo Hemp Expo, and president and founder of We Are For Better Alternatives (WAFBA).

Sponsored by Michael Best, a leading law firm serving the hemp and cannabis markets, along with BuildMySOP and AVL, the NoCo Hemp Pitch competition features six companies looking to elevate their business and receive the exposure and resources they need to take their brand or idea to the next level. Prizes include more than $10,000 in value in legal fees and other services, including a complimentary 10x10 booth and seed sponsorship for next year’s NoCo Expo.

Finalists Selected for NoCo Pitch Competition:

Airetage is a sustainable fashion brand based in Chicago. Founded by Miles Lazar, the company produces high-quality hemp clothing for the conscientious consumer. Airetage’s products are made with a textile-grade hemp fabric blend that includes cannabis agri-waste.

Bee Delightful, led by Skyler Johnstone and master beekeeper Daniel Weaver, produces wildflower honey from their rescue bees in Central Texas and infuses the raw honey with a carefully extracted, naturally occurring cannabidiol (CBD) from organic hemp farms in Colorado, Oregon and Kentucky.

JuiceTiva, founded by Chris Boucher and his wife, Jen Hutchinson, is a family owned business based in San Diego that delivers bioavailable, raw, live juice powder, with a high amount of CBDa per serving.

Pure BioPlastics, led by Ed Lehrburger out of Colorado, creates hemp fiber produced by PureHemp, which has been manufactured and sold into various markets to make first-generation hemp plastics. During the past five years, the company has developed a new technology to convert hemp stalks into 100% bioplastics (second-generation hemp plastics).

Regennabis, co-founded by Patrick McCartan and Geoff Trotter, delivers advisory, membership, events and investment services to the global cannabis and hemp industries, as well as to “canna-curious” Fortune 500 companies seeking insights into these nascent sectors.

Trusted Harvest Exchange, based in Colorado, is a proprietary contract platform led by William "Kyle" Guy that helps farmers, processors and end-use manufacturers get deals done faster, more reliably and with less risk. The platform performs contract execution, hemp regulatory compliance and carbon data management.

The finalists will have six minutes to pitch in front of a live audience and will be judged by hemp industry start-up consultants, attorneys and investors.

About NoCo9:

Schedule at a Glance
- Tree Free Hemp Charity Golf Challenge, Tuesday, March 28
- Advocacy & Policy Conference, Wednesday, March 29
- Lake Terrace Welcome Party & WAFBA Awards of Excellence, Wednesday, March 29
- Business & Investment Conference, Thursday, March 30
- 2nd Annual NoCo Hemp Pitch, Thursday, March 30
- Agriculture & Academia Conference, Friday, March 31
- Experience Hemp Expo Hall, Thursday and Friday, March 30-31
- “Garden of the Hemp Gods” NoCo9 After Party, Friday, March 31

Exhibit and Sponsor
For more information on sponsorship and exhibiting, please visit https://www.nocohempexpo.com/sponsors-and-exhibitors-request/

Register Here for NoCo9
Visit https://www.nocohempexpo.com/ticket-sales/

Contact
Morris Beegle, WAFBA, info@nocohempexpo.com
Steven Hoffman, Compass Natural, steve@compassnaturalmarketing.com, tel 303.807.1042

Steve Hoffman 3/7/23 Steve Hoffman 3/7/23

Full Program for NoCo Hemp Expo 2023 Now Available

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Interactive site provides attendees with time, day and speaker information for the NoCo9 Hemp Expo, set for March 29-31 in Colorado Springs

LOVELAND, CO (March 7, 2023) – The 9th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo has released an interactive agenda feature listing all sessions for the upcoming conference in Colorado Springs. Attendees can peruse the listings and click on the sessions for speaker details. The feature will be updated with session descriptions and other information in the weeks leading up to the March 29-31 conference.

The agenda features three full days of programming. Tickets can be purchased in an array of combinations and a la carte purchase options for the show floor, all inclusive, or separate entrance for the Advocacy and Policy, Business and Investment, and Agriculture and Academia segments offered on each of the three show days. Tickets are available here.

Attendees can also expect a robust set of business networking and social opportunities, beginning with the WAFBA Awards of Excellence Celebration and Welcome Party on the evening of Wednesday, March 29, 6:30-9 p.m., the first day of NoCo Hemp Expo. Outstanding individuals and/or groups in the hemp industry will be recognized at the ceremony to be held during the event and will feature the music of Dave Beegle and Justin Boots. Closing the conference will be an afterparty on Friday, March 31, at 8 p.m., when attendees can relax and finish their visit with the smooth sound of Erica Brown and DJ JazzyTones.

About NoCo9:

*The Broadmoor Resort in Colorado Springs.*

Schedule at a Glance
- Advocacy & Policy Conference, Wednesday, March 29
- Lake Terrace Welcome Party & WAFBA Awards of Excellence, Wednesday, March 29
- Business & Investment Conference, Thursday, March 30
- 2nd Annual NoCo Hemp Pitch, Thursday, March 30
- Agriculture & Academia Conference, Friday, March 31
- Experience Hemp Expo Hall, Thursday and Friday, March 30-31
- “Garden of the Hemp Gods” NoCo9 After Party, Friday, March 31

Exhibit and Sponsor
For more information on sponsorship and exhibiting, please visit https://www.nocohempexpo.com/sponsors-and-exhibitors-request/

Register Here for NoCo9
Visit https://www.nocohempexpo.com/ticket-sales/

Contact
Morris Beegle, WAFBA, info@nocohempexpo.com
Steven Hoffman, Compass Natural, steve@compassnaturalmarketing.com, tel 303.807.1042

Steve Hoffman 3/1/23 Steve Hoffman 3/1/23

Hemp Industry Indigenous Leaders to Convene at NoCo Hemp Expo in Colorado Springs, March 29-31

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

What: 9th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo
When: March 29-31, 2023
Where: The Broadmoor Resort, Colorado Springs, CO
Info: https://www.nocohempexpo.com/
Register for NoCo9 tickets: https://www.nocohempexpo.com/ticket-sales/

LOVELAND, CO (March 2, 2023) – Indigenous leaders in the hemp industry are planning their exhibits and talks to bring generations of knowledge to the 9th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo, the world’s most comprehensive hemp business conference and trade show. The event will take place on March 29-31, 2023, at the historic Broadmoor Resort & Convention Center in Colorado Springs.

“The contributions of Indigenous people to sustainable agriculture and stewarding the Earth are immeasurable,” said Morris Beegle, Producer of NoCo. “This year, NoCo Hemp Expo is proud to include a larger presence of Indigenous programming and exhibits.”

Indigenous Leaders Working Group Meeting
To start the show, leaders will gather on Wednesday, March 29, 2-4 p.m. MT in Her Many Voices Meeting Room for an Indigenous Leaders Working Group Meeting facilitated by Winona LaDuke, Executive Director of Honor the Earth and the Anishinaabe Agriculture Institute and founder of Winona’s Hemp, and Mary Jane Oatman, Executive Director of the Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association and Founder and Publisher of THC Magazine. Their hope is to provide a space for Indigenous industry participants to meet, mingle and contribute to the growing hemp industry among Indigenous tribes.

Indigenous Panel Discussions
Indigenous leaders will also participate in educational programming throughout the event. On Thursday March 30, at 2 p.m., LaDuke and Oatman will be joined by Theo Wahquahboshkuk of Prairie Band Ag, Rob Pero of Canndigenous and Ira Vandever to discuss the role of Indigenous knowledge in growing the hemp industry, using every part of the plant, and innovative workforce approaches. There will also be a presentation on March 31 moderated by LaDuke called “Growing Hemp: Now and Then” as part of the Agriculture Symposium on the Main Stage. Joining LaDuke will be Alex White Plume, Chris Boucher, Ryan Loflin and Bill Billings to discuss traditional and modern-day hemp farming methods, and what the growing U.S. industry can take from Indigenous farming methods to contribute to the success of hemp growing today.

Indigenous Pavilion
On Thursday and Friday of NoCo9, the show will host a dedicated exhibit pavilion with the theme of community work that will feature leading Indigenous producers and organizations, including:

- Winona’s Hemp/Anishinaabe Agriculture Institute
- Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association
- Canndigenous CBD
- Prairie Band Agriculture/Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation
- Turquoise Indigo Fibers
- Additional participants to be announced

The pavilion will include the opportunity to speak with Indigenous leaders, a weaving demonstration to show traditional application and use of hemp fiber, as well as literature and stickers available for attendees.

“The Indigenous approach is cooperative. We focus on farmers and local economies,” said Winona LaDuke of the Honor the Earth/Anishinaabe Agriculture Institute. “We will be talking about how hemp has a minimal carbon footprint, uses minimal water and is a sustainable resource. Let’s do this the right way for this sacred plant.”

About NoCo9:

Schedule at a Glance
- Advocacy & Policy Conference, Wednesday, March 29
- Lake Terrace Welcome Party & WAFBA Awards of Excellence, Wednesday, March 29
- Business & Investment Conference, Thursday, March 30
- 2nd Annual NoCo Hemp Pitch, Thursday, March 30
- Agriculture & Academia Conference, Friday, March 31
- Experience Hemp Expo Hall, Thursday and Friday, March 30-31
- Garden of the Hemp Gods-NoCo9 After Party, Friday, March 31

Exhibit and Sponsor
For more information on sponsorship and exhibiting, please visit https://www.nocohempexpo.com/sponsors-and-exhibitors-request/

Register Here for NoCo9
Visit https://www.nocohempexpo.com/ticket-sales/

Contact
Morris Beegle, WAFBA, info@nocohempexpo.com
Steven Hoffman, Compass Natural, steve@compassnaturalmarketing.com, tel 303.807.1042

Steve Hoffman 2/17/23 Steve Hoffman 2/17/23

Hemp Industry Charts Course at Annual Flagship Gathering, NoCo Hemp Expo, in Colorado Springs, March 29-31; Hemp Industry Awards and Pitch Nominations Now Open

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

What: 9th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo
When: March 29-31, 2023
Where: The Broadmoor Resort, Colorado Springs, CO
Info: www.NoCoHempExpo.com
Register for NoCo9 Early Bird Tickets: https://www.nocohempexpo.com/ticket-sales/

Loveland, CO (February 17, 2023) – As hemp industry leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, policymakers and advocates prepare to convene at the 9th annual NoCo Hemp Expo, the world’s most comprehensive hemp business conference and trade show, on March 29-31, 2023, at the historic Broadmoor Resort & Convention Center in Colorado Springs, nominations are open for two special events: the annual WAFBA Awards of Excellence and the NoCo Hemp Pitch Competition.

Hemp industry members are encouraged to nominate outstanding individuals and/or groups to be recognized at the WAFBA Awards of Excellence Celebration and Welcome Party on the evening of Wednesday, March 29, 6:30 - 9:00 pm, the first day of NoCo Hemp Expo. Nominations are being accepted for the following categories:

*The Broadmoor Resort & Convention Center in Colorado Springs.*

Legacy Award
This award is to honor a remarkable person whose legacy in industrial hemp has and will continue to empower, influence and inspire others. Their perseverance has remained steady through challenges they may have faced over time.

Elevation Award (Advancing the Industry Through Impeccable Leadership)
Someone who drives the industry forward by breaking down barriers, thus paving the way for others. They are an advocate who focuses on developing others while being committed to their own personal development. Their impact goes beyond the industry.

Mother Earth Award (Lady of Agriculture)
A woman whose entrepreneurial spirit has ushered in a new era of business leaders through her skills and execution in agriculture. She is a visionary who has cultivated relationships through education, inclusivity and collaboration.

Best New Tech Award / Tech Innovation
A person or group whose work is at the forefront with game-changing technical tools for improvement and impact to further the hemp industry, whose brand has grown markedly over the last year, whose product or services fill a gap in the market or both.

Carbon Solution Award
Acting as a change agent by creating ways to reduce carbon emissions with their own practices and/or products, and leading the way in lowering their carbon footprint while providing direction for others to do the same in the joint effort against the carbon crisis.

Community Economic Impact Award
Someone who has demonstrated extraordinary stewardship by positively impacting their community through job creation and opportunity, contributing to clean-up, strengthening financial stability, inclusivity and leading by example.

Entries Open for NoCo Pitch Competition
In addition to the WAFBA Awards of Excellence celebration, this year’s NoCo Hemp Expo also will feature the Second Annual NoCo Hemp Pitch on Wednesday, March 30, 3:30-5:00 pm MST, where six finalist companies will vie for prizes, including legal fees and other services.

Sponsored by Michael Best, a leading law firm serving the hemp and cannabis markets, the NoCo Hemp Pitch competition features six finalist companies looking to elevate their business and get the exposure and resources they need to take their brand or idea to the next level. Prizes include more than $5,000 in value in legal fees and other services.

The finalists will have six minutes to pitch in front of a live audience and will be judged by hemp industry start-up consultants, attorneys and investors. Submissions for the competition are due by Friday, March 3, and can be made by completing the form here.

“NoCo recognizes the unique challenges of the hemp industry, and we are looking forward to celebrating again this year hemp founders, game changers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators and others who are making a difference,” said Morris Beegle, Producer of NoCo Hemp Expo, and President and Founder of We Are For Better Alternatives (WAFBA).

Davita Hemp Block Demo Zone & Solution Circle – Visit this special educational zone on the trade show floor for solo presentations, panels, demos and workshops from experts and specialists innovating with hemp across all industries, from hemp textiles to medicinal applications of cannabinoids, to using hemp in artisan craft production, as well as in building and construction.

Schedule at a Glance
- Advocacy & Policy Conference, Wednesday, March 29
- Lake Terrace Welcome Party & WAFBA Awards of Excellence, Wednesday, March 29
- Business & Investment Conference, Thursday, March 30
- 2nd Annual NoCo Hemp Pitch, Thursday, March 30
- Agriculture & Academia Conference, Friday, March 31
- Experience Hemp Expo Hall: Thursday and Friday, March 30-31
- Garden of the Hemp Gods - NoCo9 After Party, Friday, March 31

Exhibit and Sponsor
For more information on sponsorship and exhibiting, please visit https://www.nocohempexpo.com/sponsors-and-exhibitors-request/

Contact
Morris Beegle, WAFBA, info@nocohempexpo.com
Steven Hoffman, Compass Natural, steve@compassnaturalmarketing.com, tel 303.807.1042

Steve Hoffman 2/3/23 Steve Hoffman 2/3/23

Pitch Perfect: 9th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo to Feature Entrepreneurs' Pitch Competition

'The Earth Is What We All Have in Common' - Wendell Berry

What: 9th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo
Dates: March 29-31, 2023
Where: The Broadmoor Resort, Colorado Springs, CO
Presented by First Citizens Bank
Info: www.NoCoHempExpo.com

Buy tickets here

The 9th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo will take place on March 29-31, 2023, at The Broadmoor, one of Colorado’s most legendary and historic resorts. Located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado Springs, The Broadmoor features a world-class setting and convention space for the largest hemp exposition and trade show in the world.

Apply Today for the NoCo Hemp Pitch!
Entrepreneurs, apply today to pitch your company in the highly anticipated NoCo Hemp Pitch! Sponsored by Michael Best, the NoCo Hemp Pitch will open the stage to six companies looking to elevate their business and get the exposure and resources needed to take their brand or idea to the next level.

*The Broadmoor Resort is located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado Springs.*

Finalists will have six minutes to pitch in front of a live audience and be judged by highly regarded start-up consultants, attorneys and investors. The winner will receive initial legal services valued at $5,000 and other to-be-announced prizes. Apply here today!

Applications are also now open to Exhibit and Sponsor at the
9th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo. Visit www.NoCoHempExpo.com
or email info@NoCoHempExpo.com.

Rooms are going fast. Reserve yours today!

For nearly a decade, NoCo Hemp Expo — the world's most comprehensive industrial hemp exposition and conference — has brought together international business and government leaders, academics, nonprofits, media and the public to collaborate on important initiatives, opportunities and solutions for the future of a crop and an industry that can have a significant positive impact on human, animal and planetary health.

We invite you to join us on this mission.

Buy tickets here

First Citizens Bank Returns as Presenting Sponsor
NoCo Hemp Expo is pleased to recognize our Sponsors, including First Citizens Bank, EarthX, Patagonia, Advanced Bio-Material Technologies, Divita Hemp Block and Michael Best. First Citizens Bank returns as Presenting Sponsor after a successful experience at last summer’s 4th Annual Southern Hemp Expo, held in August in Nashville, TN.

About NoCo Hemp Expo
The 9th Annual NoCo Hemp Expo is produced by We Are For Better Alternatives (WAFBA), a leading organization dedicated to the advancement and advocacy of hemp farming, processing, production, innovation, education and legalization. WAFBA also is the publisher of Let's Talk Hemp, the industry's leading news source. Learn more about the hemp and cannabis industry, and subscribe to the latest news at www.letstalkhemp.com.

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