IP Bootcamp for 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurs – 2026

The Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce (CQCC) Call Out for Participants: IP Bootcamp for 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurs – 2026

Are you a 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneur looking to strengthen your business by protecting your intellectual property (IP)? The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO), in partnership with The Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce (CQCC), is excited to offer a free virtual Intellectual Property (IP) Bootcamp designed specifically for 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs. This program will equip you with the tools, knowledge, and hands-on experience to protect your business innovations and take your entrepreneurial journey to the next level.

What’s in it for you?

This five-session interactive bootcamp will empower you to:

• Develop a robust IP strategy tailored to your business needs.
• Learn about current IP funding opportunities at various business stages.
• Understand how to properly apply for IP funding and use it to grow your business.
• Explore the importance of IP protection as you scale your business

Target Audience and Selection Criteria

This opportunity is designed for 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs who:

• Are at the IP strategy development stage.
• Have a basic understanding of intellectual property.
• Are looking to deepen their IP knowledge and apply it to grow their business

What’s the format?

• The program will run from September 23 to 25, 2026, from (12:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. ET) – in English. For French dates, click here.
• The bootcamp will be offered virtually (Microsoft Teams), and geographic representation from across Canada will be considered as part of the selection criteria.
• Participants will be required to complete preparatory homework, including meeting with a CIPO IP Advisor and reviewing CIPO’s online video on the six steps for developing an IP
  Strategy.

How to Apply

CQCC will shortlist 15-20 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs who meet the target audience criteria. CIPO will then select the final 5-10 participants based on the best fit for the program.

To apply, fill out the candidate information form below. We’re excited to help you level up your IP knowledge and advance your entrepreneurial journey!

Why participate?

• Gain practical IP skills and tools to protect your innovations.
• Access valuable insights from experts in the field of IP.
• Grow your business with a strategic understanding of IP opportunities.

This is a pilot project with limited spots, so don’t miss this unique opportunity to invest in your business’s future.