Creator's Spotlight - Stephen Eigenmann

From Media to Cannabis Community Builder

Stephen Eigenmann's journey into Minnesota's cannabis industry began in 2019 with Clean Green Media, initially focusing on food, farms, and what was then primarily known as the hemp industry. His path would eventually lead to creating one of Minnesota's most active cannabis community organizations.

"I like the organic nature of connection," Eigenmann explains. "I'm driven to work in startups, new industries, and bring new information to people."

The Evolution of Minnesota's Cannabis Scene

Through his work with the Minnesota Hemp Association and various industry leaders, Eigenmann witnessed the transformation of Minnesota's cannabis landscape. In January 2023, he developed CannaConnect, which has become a crucial platform for connecting brands and consumers in the state's growing cannabis community.

One of the most memorable moments came in July 2023, just days before Minnesota's legalization. "We had over 300 people show up, 20 plus brands. Jesse Ventura spoke and afterwards he made the announcement that he was launching a hemp brand - for the very first time a governor was entering the cannabis space openly," Eigenmann recalls.

Creating Meaningful Connections

Eigenmann's approach to event organization focuses heavily on curation. "The space is really important. Venue matters," he explains. "Early on, we were doing events at less friendly or less ideal cannabis venues, like bars, for example."

His philosophy extends beyond just gathering people in a room. "It's venue, its brands, its outreach to the community," he says. "The hardest part is having legitimate voice in the outreach... it's easy to come up with the idea, but how do we follow up with the consumer, with the vendor?"

Education and Community Building

Through partnerships with organizations like the Minnesota Cannabis College and his role as co-host of the Northern Lights podcast, Eigenmann has become a key figure in cannabis education in Minnesota. "When you're rooted in education, you're bringing people the news and you're covering the news and you're in long form conversations, you're able to see multiple sides," he reflects.

Expanding Beyond the Twin Cities

Looking ahead, Eigenmann sees opportunities for growth beyond the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. "The Minneapolis-St. Paul area is very concentrated with brands, events, consumers. But we know that there's more out there as we reach further north, further south," he says.

One such expansion is the High Pines Canna Club, a collaboration with Jack Pine Brewery in Baxter, Minnesota. This initiative represents Eigenmann's effort to bring cannabis culture to more rural areas of the state.

Advice for Newcomers

For those looking to get involved in Minnesota's cannabis community, Eigenmann emphasizes the importance of showing up while acknowledging the challenges of finding events. "It's about making it easier for people to find it, but then also making it more inviting," he explains.

Looking to the Future

As Minnesota's cannabis industry continues to evolve, Eigenmann sees education and community events playing an increasingly important role. Through his newsletter, podcast, and events, he aims to create what he calls "the mycelium of the Minnesota Cannabis Scene" - an interconnected network of brands, consumers, and community members.

"We want to be a vehicle that creates additional mycelium underground, in the sense of the connection," he explains. "You may be a brand or you may be a consumer. You might meet another consumer or you might meet another brand."