Proven Media Expands 'Most Influential Executives of Cannabis' Leadership Awards Series

National program recognizes cannabis industry leaders driving advancement and maturation of the market

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Proven Media, a leading public relations firm, has announced the national expansion of its 'Most Influential Executives of Cannabis' awards and editorial series. The program, developed in partnership with executive recruiting firm RW Navis & Associates and cannabis trade publication mg Magazine, will recognize executives who are shaping the future of the cannabis industry through their measurable impact, leadership integrity, and commitment to responsible industry stewardship.

Why it matters

As the cannabis industry matures, leadership, accountability, and mentorship are becoming increasingly important. This program aims to highlight the executives who are building strong teams, sustainable businesses, and investing in the next generation of industry leaders - key factors in the continued professionalization and growth of the cannabis market.

The details

The expanded series will feature regional recognition events aligned with CannaPac, an exclusive executive gathering series founded by Raymond Navis of RW Navis & Associates. Honorees will be recognized at the CannaPac receptions, featured in editorial coverage by mg Magazine, and entered into consideration for a national award during MJBiz week in Las Vegas in December 2026. Selections will be made by a panel of business experts and regional industry stakeholders based on the executives' impact and demonstrated commitment to mentorship and future-focused leadership.

  • The 2026 rollout includes recognition at CannaPac events in major cannabis markets, including West Hollywood, CA on March 17; Boston on April 24–25; Paradise Valley, AZ on May 28; Chicago on June 13; Atlantic City, NJ on September 16–18; and Las Vegas on December 1–4.
  • The national award will be presented during MJBiz week in Las Vegas in December 2026.

The players

Kim Prince

Founder and CEO of Proven Media, one of the nation's top PR communications firms. She was recently named a Public Relations Powerhouse by Cannabis & Tech Magazine and is a frequent contributor to mg Magazine.

Raymond Navis

Founder of RW Navis & Associates, an executive recruiting, capital introductions and consulting firm, and creator of CannaPac, an exclusive gathering series of top cannabis executives held in major U.S. markets to foster high-level connections.

Cynthia Navis

Partner at RW Navis & Associates, a boutique executive recruiting, capital introductions and management consulting firm, helping companies recruit top talent and connect with strategic partners nationwide.

mg Magazine

The premier B2B cannabis publication, delivering trusted industry news, expert insights, and in-depth coverage for cannabis executives, operators, and decision-makers across retail, cultivation, manufacturing, and ancillary sectors nationwide.

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What they’re saying

“Cannabis has entered a more mature phase where leadership, accountability, and mentorship matter more than ever. This initiative recognizes executives who are building strong teams and sustainable businesses, and investing in the next generation of industry leaders.”

— Kim Prince, Founder and CEO, Proven Media (EINPresswire.com)

What’s next

Honorees will be recognized at the regional CannaPac events, featured in mg Magazine, and entered into consideration for a national award in Las Vegas during MJBiz week in December 2026.

The takeaway

This program aims to elevate the cannabis industry's most impactful leaders, recognizing their contributions to building a more mature, accountable, and mentorship-driven market. By highlighting these executives, the initiative supports the continued professionalization and growth of the cannabis sector.