As the cannabis and hemp industries continue to evolve, the Cannabis Trades Association (CTA) is proud to introduce a new member-focused initiative: Sector Strategy Committees (SSCs). These committees are designed to ensure that the unique needs, challenges, and innovations of each sector are fully understood and represented in our campaigns, communications, and advocacy efforts.
Why SSCs Matter
In a complex and highly regulated industry, different parts of the supply chain often face very different pressures. The legislative landscape for medicinal cannabis, for example, looks nothing like that for industrial hemp or CBD wellness. By creating Sector Strategy Committees, the CTA is giving each part of the industry a dedicated space to raise its voice, collaborate with others, and feed directly into the Association’s wider strategic goals.
These committees are more than just working groups—they are hubs of insight, ideas, and influence. They provide the platform for practical solutions and real-world input into how the CTA operates and what it prioritises.
Who can join?
All CTA members are welcome to join one or more SSCs. There’s no complicated application process, and no requirement to hold a particular title or role - just a willingness to contribute your experience and knowledge.
Members can also propose new committees if they identify a gap that deserves focused attention. And while meetings are typically member-only, non-members with specific qualifications, skills, or expertise may be invited to contribute where appropriate.
How the committees work
Each committee is chaired by a member of the CTA Board, ensuring a direct link to the leadership of the Association. Meetings are expected to take place roughly every three months, but each group is free to set its own schedule depending on urgency and demand.
The committees:
- Share insights and sector-specific updates
- Identify and prioritise key issues
- Collaborate on possible solutions
- Inform the CTA’s positions on policy, regulation, and best practice
- Support the development of sector-specific tools, resources, and events
It’s important to note that while the committees shape the ideas and identify needs, the formal outputs (such as position papers or consultation responses) are produced by the CTA Executive Team.
Flexible, collaborative, and member-led
The SSC model has been designed to be adaptable. Committees will evolve in response to sector developments, member demand, and the broader regulatory environment. Some may become long-term fixtures; others may emerge for a specific purpose and dissolve once the task is complete.
What matters most is that these groups remain relevant, responsive, and rooted in the day-to-day realities of those working in the sector.
No Budget? No Problem, unless you want one
By default, SSCs do not have dedicated budgets. However, members can choose to sponsor specific activities, such as research, events, or specialist toolkits, if there’s appetite to take a project further.
Why now?
The SSC framework was introduced during the CTA’s 2025 AGM as part of a wider strategy to ensure that the Association remains representative, member-driven, and proactive. With so many external pressures—from regulatory hurdles to market instability—having a structured way to hear directly from each sector is essential.
Get involved
The SSCs are already forming and members are welcome to join at any time. Whether you’re working on the ground or leading from the front, your insight is invaluable.
If you’re a CTA member and want to contribute your voice, energy, and expertise, now is the time.
Joining a CTA Sector Strategy Committee
Published 30th March 2025
