Who helped you rise?
Behind every breakthrough, educational opportunity, policy win and business milestone are people who shared knowledge, opened doors and created opportunities for others. The Root & Rise Trailblazer Awards celebrate those who helped advance cannabis take root across the Southeast and beyond.
Finalists and award recipients will be recognized during the Root & Rise Trailblazer Awards Dinner & Reception on July 24.
Awards Categories
The Root & Rise Trailblazer Awards recognize contributions across the cannabis industry, from scientific research and public service to entrepreneurship, advocacy and community leadership.
Awards Dinner & Reception
As the sun sets over Virginia’s Blue Ridge, Root & Rise gathers for an evening celebrating the people helping shape the future of emerging cannabis markets.
Friday, July 24 | 7:00 - 10:00 p.m.
Includes a formal dinner, adult beverages and the Root & Rise Awards Reception honoring leaders across research, business, policy, education and community impact. R&R Symposium pass required.
Nomination Process
The Root & Rise Trailblazer Awards recognize individuals, organizations and initiatives making a meaningful impact through research, education, policy, business, advocacy and community leadership. Nominations will be reviewed by the Root & Rise Trailblazer Awards Selection Committee, which will select finalists and recipients in each category.
Now Through July 8 | Submit Nominations
Nominate an individual, organization or initiative whose contributions are helping advance cannabis and create opportunities for others. Self-nominations are welcome.
July 10 | Finalists Notified
The Root & Rise Trailblazer Awards Selection Committee will review submissions and select finalists in each category. Finalists will be recognized on Root & Rise channels and invited to participate in the awards celebration during the symposium.
July 24 | Winners Recognized
Award recipients will be honored during the Root & Rise Trailblazer Awards Dinner & Reception as part of Root & Rise Symposium at Roanoke College.
Support the Trailblazer Awards
The Root & Rise Trailblazer Awards are free to enter and open to individuals, organizations and initiatives across the cannabis industry.
Support from sponsors and industry partners helps make the program possible while ensuring finalists and recipients receive the recognition they deserve.
What to Expect
An Evening of Recognition
The Trailblazer Awards Dinner & Reception celebrates the people and organizations whose work continues to create opportunities, spark progress and strengthen the future of cannabis.
Dinner, Drinks & Good Company
Enjoy a seated dinner, adult beverage service and an evening designed to bring the conversations of the symposium into a more relaxed and unforgettable experience. Some of the most valuable connections at Root & Rise happen after the sessions end.
Trailblazer Awards Presentation
Category winners will be recognized throughout the evening as we celebrate leadership, innovation and impact across the cannabis industry.
Music, Mountains & Mingling
Following the awards presentation, continue the conversation with live music, networking and a relaxed social atmosphere overlooking the Roanoke Valley.
Attire
Dress for a celebration. If that means a ballgown, go for it. If it means a sport coat or your favorite summer dress, you’ll fit right in. July evenings in the Blue Ridge can start warm and cool off after sunset, so light layers are recommended. Black tie and sequins are welcome, but never required.
R&R Symposium Pricing
Our Partners
Get in Touch
Kelly Riddle, Founder
Executive Producer
Eric Welch, Founder
Head of Partnerships & Sales
DB Poli, Strategic Partner
Professor of Biology and Cannabis Studies at Roanoke College
