Building a thriving and inclusive Canadian economy
CQCC brings people together and highlights the right resources for 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs to be even more successful.
OUR MISSION
Enable the 2SLGBTQI+ business community to grow through advocacy, education, capacity building and connections in partnership with allies who share our vision.
Our Values
Community
When we strengthen and uplift our entire community, we’re making it easier for 2SLGBTQI+ people to exist and to thrive.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
We celebrate and embrace the uniqueness of our community, ensuring everyone feels included and has the opportunity to participate.
Bravery & Boldness
We live in a world that is constantly changing, and in order to advance, innovate and create impact, we can’t be afraid to challenge the norm.
Collaboration
When we work together, we are greater than the sum of the parts.
Integrity
We’re proud of the work we do in a transparent, honest, and humble way, and we stand behind that.
By The Numbers
100,000
Canada is home to over 100,000
2SLGBTQI+-owned businesses.
$22 Billion
These businesses generate over $22 billion in economic activity.
435,000
These businesses employ over 435,000 Canadians.
BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS
2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs still face barriers. Nearly half have hidden who they were in business dealings to avoid losing opportunities, and more than a third have lost opportunities due to being 2SLGBTQI+.
CREATING CHANGE ONE CONNECTION AT A TIME
The community of 2SLGBTQI+ businesses, government liaisons and diverse procurement practices is helping to tip the scales. CQCC is a coalition of all of these positive forces advocating for change to make a more inclusive Canadian economy possible.
“We exist because 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs already have a huge impact on the Canadian economy, with barriers. Let’s see what kind of thriving and inclusive Canada is possible when we remove them.”
OUR EMPOWERING PROGRAMS
Each of our programs is designed to elevate 2SLGBTQI+ businesses and foster greater diversity and inclusion across Canada’s economy.
This program gives Canadian 2SLGBTQI+ businesses unprecedented access to connections, partnerships and new business opportunities. Corporations benefit from diversifying their suppliers and service providers, while gaining greater diversity in their knowledge and skills.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Exposes certified suppliers to unique opportunities
- Helps organizations stay on the leading edge of diversity practices
Rainbow Registered is a national accreditation for 2SLGBTQI+ friendly businesses and organizations. Accredited businesses are deemed market-ready for the 2SLGBTQI+ customer and given the right to be associated with the program’s prestigious designation.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Demonstrates your commitment to creating more inclusive spaces
- Builds trust within the 2SLGBTQI+ community
Canada’s only national mentorship program for 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs. OUT For Business supports a group of 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs each year by connecting business leaders in our community with the next generation of leaders to provide support and guidance in growing their businesses.
HIGHLIGHTS
- One-on-one and group mentoring sessions
- Advances 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs of all ages from diverse backgrounds
CQCC, with the generous support of Export Development Canada (EDC) is proud to help Canadian 2SLGBTQI+ businesses and entrepreneurs go global. We offer an Export Readiness Training Program and regularly conduct trade missions around the world.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Tailored capacity-building, mentorships, and access to vital trade networks
- Knowledge, skills and connections to explore global markets
A new membership program for all 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs. Focused on connection, community building, and resource sharing, the FAM brings together all entrepreneurial 2SLGBTQI+ folks, from coast to coast to coast.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Build more robust support networks, and learn from one another’s expertise
- Gain more industry-focused connections
This program offers structured sessions and one-on-one networking with expert advisors, tailored specifically for newcomer entrepreneurs. Engage in expert-facilitated discussions on common business challenges 2SLGBTQI+ newcomer entrepreneurs face.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Sessions offer tailored insights and actionable strategies
- Opportunities to network and integrate into the broader CQCC ecosystem
Mental health disproportionately impacts 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and entrepreneurs. That’s why CQCC has partnered with Our Landing Place to launch a landmark mental health initiative for 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs and business owners.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Group workshops, offering valuable insights and practical strategies
- One-on-one confidential mental health support, at no cost
This program aims to break down barriers to starting, maintaining, and growing a business among Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) across Canada, particularly equity deserving groups. This is done through targeted support to community organizations.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Enhances overall sustainability, drives growth, and competitiveness
- Contributes to broader economic and social benefits
CQCC in partnership with Tourism HR Canada, has designed a number of training and educational tools to guide destinations through meaningful practices that ensure 2SLGBTQI+ travellers have an inclusive and positive experience.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Workshops for diversity and inclusion in the tourism industry
- Travel market-ready seminars, destination audits and tourism toolkits
