Innovation often begins with a problem to solve. For Sorting Robotics, the spark of inspiration came from cannabis producers struggling with the operational challenges of kief-coated joints. This year, Sorting Robotics has earned a well-deserved spot among the winners of the 2024 CannaTech Innovation Awards for their product Stardust.
Judged by a panel of industry experts, including Mary Jane Oatman, Lance Lambert, Rob Pero, Aron Vaughan, and Charles Warner, the CannaTech Innovation Awards honor companies that push the boundaries of what’s possible in cannabis technology. Sorting Robotics stood out for their dedication to solving real-world manufacturing problems with precision and innovation.
Below, CEO Nohtal Partansky shares insights into the company’s journey, their vision, and how Stardust is making a measurable impact on the cannabis industry.
Q&A With Sorting Robotics
Cannabis & Tech Today: What does winning the 2024 Innovation Award mean to your company?
Nohtal Partansky: Winning this award is a meaningful recognition of the hard work and dedication our team has poured into developing a solution that truly serves the cannabis industry. It’s a testament to the innovative team and culture that fuels Sorting Robotics. We will definitely be showcasing this honor on our website and beyond. It’s a valuable stamp of approval that reinforces the trust and credibility we have built with our customers, the industry, and the cannabis community at large.
C&T Today: What inspired your team to develop Stardust, and how does it reflect the core values of your company?
NP: The inspiration came directly from our customers. We heard loud and clear about the challenges kief-coated joints were creating for their operations, what one described as “a massive headache.” Our company is built around being customer-centric, functioning as true manufacturing partners for the businesses we serve. Stardust was designed to answer the key questions our customers are always asking: “How do we make more money and reduce inefficiencies?” By addressing these pain points head-on, we stay true to our mission of solving real-world problems with innovation and collaboration.
C&T Today: What has the past year been like for your business, and how has Stardust contributed to your growth or success?
NP: The past year has been a whirlwind. The R&D process for Stardust was no small feat. It was a challenging journey with plenty of hurdles along the way, but those challenges made the eventual success even more rewarding. Now that Stardust is live and being deployed, it is clear that this product is a major growth driver for Sorting Robotics. It is positioned to catapult us into being the leading name in cannabis automation and robotics.
C&T Today: What do you think it takes to be an award-winning brand or product in the cannabis industry today?
NP: It requires a bold vision, a committed team, and the ability to stay focused on delivering exceptional results. Whether you are plant-touching or developing ancillary products, it’s about solving meaningful problems while navigating a complex and competitive landscape. Those who succeed often have both a clear goal and the support of customers and stakeholders who believe in that mission.
C&T Today: How do you see your product impacting the cannabis industry in the next few years?
NP: Stardust has the potential to revolutionize cannabis manufacturing. Throughout 2025, we estimate it will save the industry $20 million in labor costs, and that number could triple to $60 million in 2026. The scalability and efficiency it brings will allow cannabis businesses to reinvest in other areas, driving growth across the entire sector.
C&T Today: If you could give one piece of advice to other innovators in the cannabis space, what would it be?
NP: Stay focused on solving the problems that truly matter to your customers. Innovation for the sake of innovation will not cut it in this space. Identify the gaps in efficiency, profitability, or experience, and then commit to filling them better than anyone else.
C&T Today: What’s next for your company? Are there any exciting developments or goals you’re working toward in 2025 and beyond?
NP: In the short term, our priority is scaling Stardust and delivering it to as many customers as possible. Looking further ahead, our goal is to automate the entire cannabis value chain. Within the next five years, we aim to save the industry over $1 billion annually in labor and material spillage. We’re building a future where cannabis manufacturing is smarter, faster, and more sustainable.
A Vision for Smarter Cannabis Manufacturing
Sorting Robotics’ journey with Stardust highlights the power of listening to customers and turning pain points into opportunities. By focusing on innovation that addresses real-world challenges, the company is helping cannabis businesses save time, reduce costs, and boost efficiency.
As the cannabis industry grows, Sorting Robotics is set to play a key role in shaping its evolution. With ambitious plans to automate the entire cannabis value chain, they’re creating a future where technology empowers producers, fosters sustainability, and maximizes potential across the board.
Stay tuned for more profiles of the 2024 CannaTech Innovation Award winners as we celebrate the companies redefining the future of cannabis technology.
