Soceity
Cannabis Giants Collide: Cannabis Competition Heats Up
Aug
The cannabis competition scene just got a major upgrade. In a bold move that’s capturing attention nationwide, MJBizCon has teamed up with Budist to launch the MJBowl, a coast-to-coast cannabis competition that brings New York and California head-to-head. With five distinct product categories and a unique judging format that blends expert analysis with consumer feedback, this cannabis competition is set to reshape how top-tier cannabis products are recognized and celebrated across the industry.
1. What Is the MJBowl?
The MJBowl is a first-of-its-kind cannabis competition designed to spotlight the best legal marijuana products from two of the most influential cannabis markets in the United States: New York and California. Organized by MJBizCon and powered by Budist, the competition aims to identify top-tier products across a wide spectrum of categories, while engaging both industry professionals and everyday consumers.
Unlike traditional cannabis contests that focus on a single region or niche, the MJBowl is a bi-coastal showdown that embraces diversity in cultivation methods, product formats, and consumer preferences. It’s not just about who grows the best flower—it’s about who delivers the most compelling cannabis experience.
2. The Five Categories of Competition
To ensure a comprehensive evaluation, the MJBowl breaks down entries into five major product categories, each with subcategories to reflect the nuances of cannabis production:
- Pre-rolls
- Infused
- Non-infused
- Flower
- Indoor
- Outdoor
- Mixed light
- Cartridges
- Solvent
- Solventless
- Concentrates
- Solvent
- Solventless
- Edibles
- Confections
- Beverages
This structure allows for fair comparisons and ensures that products are judged within their appropriate context. Whether it’s a sun-grown sativa from Humboldt or a solventless rosin cartridge from Brooklyn, each entry gets its moment to shine.
3. Who’s Judging the MJBowl?
The judging panel is a blend of cannabis connoisseurs, certified Ganjiers, journalists, and tastemakers. These experts will evaluate entries based on quality, innovation, and consumer appeal. But that’s not all—consumers also get a say.
Through the Budist app, top-performing products will be featured in consumer judging kits, allowing everyday cannabis users to rate and review them. This dual-layered judging process ensures that winners are not only technically excellent but also resonate with real-world users.
4. Key Dates and Entry Details
The competition officially opened for entries on August 14, and submissions will be accepted until October 3. Companies that enter before August 31 can take advantage of early bird pricing at $250 per product entry.
To qualify, companies must meet the following criteria:
- Be licensed cannabis operators in either New York or California
- Submit retail-ready products that fall into one of the five categories
- Ensure products are compliant with state regulations
This isn’t a contest for hobbyists or underground growers—it’s a professional showcase for brands looking to make a national impact.
5. The Grand Finale at MJBizCon
Winners will be announced on December 4 at MJBizCon, the largest cannabis business conference in the world. Held annually in Las Vegas, MJBizCon attracts thousands of industry professionals, investors, and media outlets. Winning the MJBowl means more than just bragging rights—it’s a chance to gain national visibility and consumer trust.
In addition to the awards ceremony, winning products will be featured in Budist’s consumer kits, giving them a direct line to cannabis enthusiasts eager to try the best of the best.
6. Why This Matters for the Industry
The MJBowl isn’t just a flashy competition—it’s a strategic move to elevate product standards and foster healthy rivalry between two powerhouse markets. California has long been seen as the gold standard in cannabis, but New York’s emerging market is rapidly gaining momentum. By putting these regions head-to-head, the MJBowl encourages innovation, transparency, and consumer engagement.
It also democratizes the judging process. By involving consumers through Budist, the competition reflects real-world preferences, not just industry insider opinions. This could lead to more consumer-driven product development and better alignment between brands and buyers.
7. Final Thoughts: Who Will Take the Crown?
As the cannabis industry matures, competitions like the MJBowl play a vital role in shaping its future. They highlight excellence, reward innovation, and bring communities together. Whether you’re a cultivator in the Emerald Triangle or an edibles maker in Queens, this is your chance to prove your product belongs on the national stage.
So, who will take the crown—New York or California? The answer lies in the hands of judges and consumers alike. One thing’s for sure: the MJBowl is raising the bar for cannabis competitions everywhere.
