MJBizCon and Budist Launch Historic Bi-Coastal Cannabis Competition and Awards
On August 14, 2025, the buzz of innovation in the cannabis industry reverberated as MJBizCon, the largest and most established cannabis conference in the world, partnered with Budist to announce the launch of the MJBowl. This groundbreaking bi-coastal competition aims to highlight the Most Valuable Products (MVP) from California and New York, marking a significant milestone in the recognition of cannabis on a national platform.
The competition features five essential categories, including flower—covering indoor, outdoor, and greenhouse varieties—as well as pre-rolls, concentrates, edibles, and vapes. With such a diverse range of categories, the MJBowl seeks to honor the product excellence emanating from both coasts of the United States.
From August 14 through October 3, licensed cannabis companies in California and New York can participate in this unique contest, with award winners set to be unveiled on December 4, 2025, at the MJBizCon event. The official announcement of the MJBowl occurred at Hiii Magazine HQ in Los Angeles, coinciding with their Galactic Lift Off event, which added a festive touch to the launch.
Budist, a pioneering platform designed specifically for cannabis reviews, will lead the judging process for the MJBowl. This assessment will be carried out by a panel of experts including certified Ganjiers, veteran judges, cannabis journalists, and other industry tastemakers. They will utilize a standardized scoring rubric, ensuring that the evaluation process is both credible and consistent.
According to Emilie Lewis, Senior Vice President and MJBiz Brand Leader, "Budist is the respected, consumer-driven guide for cannabis lovers everywhere. Together, we're uniting East and West in a contest that will raise the bar — and set a new tradition for the industry." She emphasizes the importance of holding such a competition, stating that the industry has long awaited national recognition and celebration.
Jocelyn Sheltraw, Co-Founder and CEO of Budist, echoed similar sentiments. She noted, "This bi-coastal competition is a significant step in that direction, bridging siloed markets by spotlighting product excellence in each state. MJBizCon is the ideal partner to unite stakeholders across our ecosystem, and Budist is honored to partner with them for this historic occasion."
As the competition unfolds, the winning brands will not only gain recognition during the awards ceremony but will also be featured in consumer judging kits. This innovative approach allows cannabis enthusiasts to experience the winning products firsthand through the Budist app, where they can rate and review the entries, further extending the visibility and acclaim of the recognized brands.
The introduction of the MJBowl marks the beginning of a new era in cannabis competition, reflecting how the industry is eager for broader recognition. With MJBizCon's esteemed position within the cannabis sector, this partnership is poised to create waves, showcasing the best of what both California and New York have to offer.
In conclusion, the MJBowl presents a unique opportunity to celebrate and elevate the cannabis industry. It aims not just to reward excellence but to foster community engagement and consumer experiences, allowing enthusiasts to connect with the brands that resonate with them most. As anticipation builds for the winners to be revealed in December, the MJBowl stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of cannabis in America.