Cannabis
Overview
With research and training at UBC Okanagan and Okanagan College, combined with a region rich in agriculture history and knowledge, it’s no wonder the Central Okanagan is a cannabis hub for cultivation, production, and innovation in research and development.
Industry-leading cannabis organizations are choosing to invest in the region. The Okanagan climate is attractive to talent and plants alike, with a robust year-round tourism industry and a long growing season, it’s no wonder cannabis leaders are cultivating exceptional growth in the Okanagan.
Industry Highlights
- Total Canadian cannabis industry revenue in 2021 was $5.6B, with $8.5B expected industry revenue by 2026
- 24% of Canada’s licensed producers are based in BC, producing over 40% of Canada’s cannabis product output
- The Central Okanagan has 26 Health Canada commercial cannabis licenses to cultivate, process or sell cannabis
- There are over 28 cannabis retail stores in the Central Okanagan
Competitive Advantages
- The Central Okanagan is leading the way in cannabis with its topography, sunny and dry climate, and access to scientific components and breakthroughs with industry collaborative partnerships with Okanagan College and the University of British Columbia Okanagan
- Geographic proximity to key markets and reliable transportation routes (YYC, YVR, YLW)
- Talent pipeline supported by responsive public post-secondary institutions and directed regional attraction and retention initiatives in cannabis
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- University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus – Irving K. Barber Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences: UBC’s Okanagan Campus
- Okanagan College – Cannabis Training
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- Proximity to research support facilities at The University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus (UBCO)