Seasoned Media Executives Launch IgniteIt Inc., a New Media and Events Powerhouse Formerly Operated as Benzinga Cannabis
Led by former Benzinga executives, IgniteIt will serve as a dedicated platform for the cannabis industry to connect, grow, and build.
Fifteen years ago, I started Benzinga with a mission to empower investors with better information. Now, with IgniteIt, I’m thrilled to help build something new again." - Jason Raznick
Detroit, MI (Newsworthy.ai) Wednesday Aug 20, 2025 @ 10:06 AM Central —
Today, IgniteIt Inc. (IgniteIt) announced that the cannabis industry’s premier business conference and media platform, formerly operated by Benzinga Cannabis, is entering a new chapter, separate and not affiliated with Benzinga. Led by former Benzinga executives, IgniteIt will serve as a dedicated platform for the cannabis industry to connect, grow, and build.
IgniteIt’s mission will be divided into these core areas:
Capturing the Moment: Delivering editorial coverage that pinpoints the news, advocacy, and thought leadership shaping the momentum of cannabis and other emerging industries.
Where Deals Get Done: Hosting live events that connect attendees with the industry’s most influential decision-makers, unlocking unmatched opportunities for growth and partnership.
Strategic Insight & Advocacy: Designing conference agendas that spotlight the most critical topics and opportunities, led by voices at the forefront of industry innovation.
Exclusive Access, Open Doors: Curating audiences of top executives and growth leaders while ensuring our events remain welcoming and accessible to all who seek to advance the industry
“Fifteen years ago, I started Benzinga with a mission to empower investors with better information,” said Jason Raznick, Chairman of IgniteIt. “Now, with IgniteIt, I’m thrilled to help build something new again — this time with a laser focus on emerging industries like cannabis. We’ve assembled a team that knows how to create experiences that truly impact the outcome for our attendees, and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.”
IgniteIt now owns:
The Cannabis Capital Conference, the premier investor and business gathering in the industry, with a track record of more than 20 successful events.
The Cannabis Market Spotlight series, with three events planned through the end of 2025.
The Cannabis Daily newsletter and the full archive of editorial content.
An expansive library of cannabis-related insights, interviews, and reporting.
“IgniteIt is built on a proven foundation,” said Patrick Lane, CEO of IgniteIt. “We’ve spent years cultivating relationships, trust, and impact in the cannabis space. With this new chapter, we’re doubling down on storytelling, advocacy, and high-quality business events that accelerate opportunity in cannabis and beyond.”
The founding team behind IgniteIt includes some of the most influential figures in cannabis media and events:
Jason Raznick, Founder of Benzinga, will serve as Chairman of IgniteIt.
Patrick Lane, formerly EVP of Sales at Benzinga and creator of the Cannabis Capital Conference, will serve as CEO.
Elliot Lane, formerly SVP & Head of Benzinga Cannabis, has been appointed President & Chief Revenue Officer.
Javier Hasse, former Managing Director of Benzinga Cannabis and current Editor-in-Chief of High Times, CEO of El Planteo and Senior Contributor at Forbes, joins as Co-Founder.
“We’ve watched companies go from newly licensed startups to market leaders, and many of those inflection points happened at our events,” said Elliot Lane, President & CRO of IgniteIt. “The Cannabis Capital Conference and our Market Spotlight events have become essential platforms for companies to meet investors, form partnerships, and accelerate their growth. That’s the power of curated, high-impact networking; and it’s what IgniteIt is built to deliver.”
IgniteIt’s editorial mission will focus on nascent and fast-evolving industries, beginning with cannabis, offering in-depth reporting, op-eds from trusted voices, business trend analysis, and advocacy-driven content designed to empower industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors alike.
“For almost a decade, we’ve built credibility in this space,” added Javier Hasse. “With IgniteIt, we’re bringing together journalism and events to help build an industry that’s ethical, inclusive and built to last. Strong reporting and smart convening create real opportunity. For jobs, tax revenue, innovation and a culture that brings good to the world.”
IgniteIt’s upcoming events will continue to serve as critical convening grounds for executives, investors, and policymakers shaping the future of cannabis and similar high-growth industries.
To learn more about IgniteIt or request interviews, please contact:
About IgniteIt
IgniteIt is a media and events company focused on cannabis and emerging industries. Founded by the team behind BZ Cannabis, IgniteIt produces award-winning editorial content and world-class business conferences, including the Cannabis Capital Conference and the Cannabis Market Spotlight series. Igniteit Inc. is a separate entity and is in no way affiliated with Benzinga.
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