The inaugural CORE Summit is a two-day event hosted by the City’s Office of Cannabis Management that will bring together cannabis business owners, industry professionals, advocates and community members.

The event will take place May 6–7 at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center and will be centered on the theme “Building Legacy, Restoring Opportunity.” Programming will focus on information sharing, industry challenges and resources that support equitable participation in Sacramento’s cannabis industry.

“This summit is intended to support conversations around equity in the local cannabis industry,” said Al Romero-Gibu, who leads the Office of Cannabis Management. “By convening careholders and resource partners, we aim to connect participants with tools and information and expand access to opportunities.”

Sessions will cover topics such as licensing, compliance, workforce development and pathways for entrepreneurs seeking to enter or expand within the cannabis industry.

Participants can also connect with organizations that provide technical assistance and business support.

The summit will also feature speakers from government, advocacy and industry, including Eugene Hillsman, deputy director of equity and inclusion for the California Department of Cannabis Control, Toni Forge, Esq., attorney and cannabis industry expert, and Stephanie Shepard, director of The Last Prisoner Project.

CORE Summit 2026 is part of the City’s ongoing efforts to support its Cannabis Opportunity Reinvestment and Equity (CORE) Program, which works to reduce barriers to entry and assist individuals and communities disproportionately impacted by past cannabis enforcement.

Registration is free for CORE participants, with tickets available for $25 for equity participants outside Sacramento and $50 for general admission.

Additional details, including registration information, are available on the City’s website.

Questions can be directed to CORESummit@cityofsacramento.org.