CQCC: Canada's 2SLGBQTI+ Chamber of Commerce

What’s the Buzz? The Latest from Rainbow Registered
2022-09-15 16:00 - 17:00 (America/Vancouver)
Calling all Rainbow Registered accredited businesses and anyone who wants to learn about how to become part of this exciting program – the only national cross-industry standard for ensuring safe and inclusive spaces for the 2SLGBTQI+ community. Join us for the latest updates on all of our activities, opportunities for education, networking and best practice sharing.

Please sign up if you:

Are a Rainbow Registered accredited business or organization.Are a current CQCC member who wants to learn about the benefits of becoming a Rainbow Registered business or organization. Are a business or organization who is considering becoming a Rainbow Registered business or organization.

During this session we will:

Give updates on the program, including PR and marketing efforts.Share best practices on maximizing your Rainbow Registered accreditation.Highlight other programs offered by the CQCC, including membership benefits, the Certified Supplier Program, and training opportunities.Provide an opportunity to connect and network with other Rainbow Registered businesses.

We will make time at the end for any questions and comments you may have.

Register today to learn more!

Diverse Suppliers - ESG risks and opportunities
2022-09-20 13:00
Being a diverse supplier helped open the door. Now, strong ESG practices will help keep you in the supply chain. Join us for an introduction to ESG – and to learn how Environmental, Social and Governance factors are playing an increasingly important role in procurement decisions. Learn how corporate commitments targeting Net-Zero carbon emissions, human rights, and sound risk management will influence corporate procurement decisions for years to come.

Please join us if you:

Are a B2B business who sells into corporate supply chains

Want to maximize your opportunities as a diverse supplier

Want to understand more about sustainable procurement practices

Are curious about the “ESG” buzz in the business world

During this session we will:

Provide an overview and introduction to ESG

Situate diverse suppliers within broader ESG commitments

Explain how corporations are making sustainable procurement commitments

Share best practices on how to identify future supply chain ESG requirements

You will leave this workshop better equipped to understand the ESG considerations that will go into your buyers’ procurement decisions and supplier codes of conduct and be able to prioritize the sustainability issues and initiatives you should consider to “future-proof” your business.

About the speaker

Justin Taylor is the President of Cardinals, a queer-owned consulting firm that helps businesses strategize, measure, and manage their impact on people and the planet so they can meet the evolving expectations of customers and financial partners. Previously, Justin led a team at Export Development Canada responsible for assessing the business integrity risks of new and existing clients. Before that he was the first Executive Director of Rainbow Railroad, a Canadian charity that helps LGTBQI+ people facing persecution around the world and held senior government affairs and program management roles at Restaurants Canada. Justin is a Certified Anti-Corruption Specialist and holds a BA from Carleton University and a B. Comm in International Business from University of Ottawa. He lives, works, and enjoys the great outdoors in Ottawa on the traditional unceded territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin People.

Registration is strictly limited for this workshop. Secure your seat. Register now at ESG Opportunities

This session will be presented in English only.

Discussion Groups: Trans & BIPOC 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurs
2022-09-27 11:00 - 12:00
New Project: Supporting Canada’s Most Marginalized Entrepreneurs

The CQCC is working on an equity-minded governance model that better enables 2SLGBTQI+ BIPOC and Trans entrepreneurs to have a more meaningful voice at the table.

As part of this project, Ivy + Dean, a queer-owned consulting firm, will be facilitating consultations with Trans & BIPOC 2SLGBTQI+ people within, and outside of our CQCC community. We are seeking Trans & BIPOC 2SLGBTQI+ current and prospective entrepreneurs willing to participate in a discussion group or one-on-one interviews.

To join the English discussion groups, please register below:

Discussion Group for Trans Entrepreneurs – September 27, 11am ET.

Discussion Group for 2SLGBTQI+ BIPOC Entrepreneurs – September 29, 11am ET.

For more information, please contact cglcc@ivydeanconsulting.ca.

Nouveau projet ! – Soutenir les entrepreneurs les plus marginalisés du Canada

Nous travaillons sur un modèle de gouvernance équitable qui permettra aux entrepreneurs 2SLGBTQI+ PANDC et Trans d’avoir une voix plus significative à la table.

Dans le cadre de ce projet, Ivy + Dean experts-conseils, une entreprise de conseil queer, facilitera les consultations avec des personnes 2SLGBTQI+ Trans et PANDC au sein et en dehors de notre communauté CQCC. Nous cherchons des entrepreneurs (ou des futurs entrepreneurs !) Trans et PANDC 2SLGBTQI+ prêts à participer à un groupe de discussion ou à des entretiens individuels.

Pour participer aux groupes de discussion en français, veuillez vous inscrire ci-dessous :

Groupe de discussion pour les entrepreneurs trans – 27 septembre à 14h00 (heure de l’Est)

Groupe de discussion pour les entrepreneurs 2SLGBTQI+ et PANDC – 29 septembre à 14h00 (heure de l’Est)

Les groupes de discussion en anglais ont lieu à des heures supplémentaires. Pour plus d’informations, vous pouvez contacter cglcc@ivydeanexperts.ca.

Navigating 2SLGBTQI+ Diversity & Inclusion in the Tourism Industry – Webinar (Oct 4th, 2022)
2022-10-04 13:00 - 16:00
The global 2SLGBTQI+ travel market is valued at more than US$200B annually. Canadian destinations are well positioned to grow their share of this market. But in order to be successful, destinations and operators must ensure that 2SLGBTQI+ customers feel welcome, accepted and are served in a way that exceeds their expectations and accommodates their needs.

To support efforts in developing market-ready products, CQCC’s Navigating 2SLGBTQI+ Diversity and Inclusion in the Tourism Industry helps tourism-based businesses learn about 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion and how to effectively understand, value, and serve 2SLGBTQI+ customers and employees.

This training is presented as a workshop webinar, live via Zoom.

The webinar is being filmed in Halifax. All times are in ADT.

7th Annual Supplier Diversity Event – SDAC
2022-10-14 08:00 - 12:00
Cultivating, building & growing relationships and business opportunities between diverse suppliers, corporations, and public organization.

About this event

Supplier Diversity Alliance Canada (SDAC) is pleased to present the 7th annual Connect. Collaborate. Succeed. supplier diversity networking event. With a focus on cultivating, building and growing relationships and business opportunities between diverse suppliers, corporations, and public organizations, this is an event you don’t want to miss.

A key component of the event will be the roundtable sessions between corporate partners and diverse suppliers. This is an opportunity for businesses to present themselves directly to leading North American companies, and learn more about their purchasing needs.

Agenda:

8:00am: Registration Opens

8:00 – 9:00 am: Breakfast & Networking

9:00 – 9:10 am: Opening Remarks

9:10 – 9:30 am: SDAC Updates

9:30 – 10:15 am: Panel Session: Leveraging the Eco-System

10:15 – 10:30 am: Break

10:30– 11:45 am: Corporate-supplier Sourcing Roundtables

11:45 – 12:00 Pm: Wrap-Up

For more information: www.supplierdiversityalliance.ca

About SDAC

​Supplier Diversity Alliance Canada (SDAC) was established in 2016 for the intention of advancing supplier diversity in Canada. SDAC seeks to provide support, guidance and consultation to stakeholders on the direct impacts of developing and applying effective inclusive procurement policies and practices.

Collaborating and aligning efforts in key areas, SDAC strives to improve economic opportunities for diverse certified suppliers from across the country. SDAC focuses on three core activities: Advocacy, Research, and Learning.

The four member organizations of the SDAC include: Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council (CAMSC – representing Aboriginal and visible minority-owned businesses), Canadian Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (CQCC – representing 2SLGBTQI+-owned businesses), Inclusive Workplace Supply Council of Canada (IWSCC – representing Veterans and/or people with disabilities who own businesses) and Women Business Enterprises Canada Council (WBE Canada – representing women-owned businesses).

​The four member organizations are all incorporated not-for profit Canadian organizations with a national scope. It is anticipated that other categories of diverse suppliers may be represented in the future.

SDAC encourages participation from organizations focused on driving economic opportunities for diverse-owned businesses through supplier diversity activities.

Navigating 2SLGBTQI+ Diversity & Inclusion in the Tourism Industry - Halifax, NS (Oct 18th, 2022)
2022-10-18 09:00 - 12:30
Hello, Nova Scotia Tourism and Hospitality businesses! Register today for a free in-person workshop to expand your ability to reach the lucrative 2SLGBTQI+ travel market.

Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia (TIANS) in collaboration with Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CQCC) organizes workshops this fall in four communities across Nova Scotia.

HALIFAX (October 18 | 9 AM – 12:30 PM | Hotel Halifax)LIVERPOOL (October 19 | 1 PM – 4:30 PM | White Point Beach Resort)YARMOUTH (October 21 | 9 AM – 12:30 PM | Tru by Hilton Yarmouth)SYDNEY (October 24 | 9 AM – 12:30 PM | Cambridge Suites Sydney)

Register for any or all of these great in-person events!

Navigating 2SLGBTQI+ Diversity & Inclusion in the Tourism Industry - Liverpool, NS (Oct 19th, 2022)
2022-10-19 13:00 - 16:00

Navigating 2SLGBTQI+ Diversity & Inclusion in the Tourism Industry - Yarmouth, NS (Oct 21st, 2022)
2022-10-21 09:00 - 12:30

Navigating 2SLGBTQI+ Diversity & Inclusion in the Tourism Industry - Sydney, NS (Oct 24th, 2022)
2022-10-24 09:00 - 12:30

The State of Canadian Supplier Diversity Webinar
2022-10-28 13:00 - 13:30
A Research Report

We invite you to Join CQCC, CAMSC and WEConnect International as we share the results of our recently released report on the State of Canadian Supplier Diversity. This report conducted by Supplier.io, shines a light on the benefits, current state and future of supplier diversity in Canada.

Report findings to be discussed include:

Only 19% of respondent companies have a formal supplier diversity program in Canada, with 62% of US and Canada Supplier Diversity programs under 3 years old;

60% of corporate respondents believe engaging with diverse suppliers has a positive impact on their company;

The average spend with diverse suppliers is only 2.6% of total spend;

88% of corporate respondents measure their community impact through spending with diverse businesses and 87% believe engaging with diverse suppliers has measurable and significant impact on their community;

Over 70% of respondents stated Corporate Social Responsibility and alignment with corporate culture/workforce inclusiveness were the main drivers for having a Supplier Diversity program within Canada.

Who Should Attend:

Team leads and staff who manage supplier diversity, DE&I, ESG activities within your organization

Procurement leaders and senior executives who want to better understand the impact of supplier diversity

Anyone with responsibilities for your organization’s strategic initiatives

Certified suppliers doing business in Canada

Your Presenters Are:

Darrell Schuurman, CEO, CQCC

Cassandra Dorrington, President & CEO, CAMSC

Stephanie Fontaine, Regional Director, WEConnect International

Registration is now closed.

Navigating 2SLGBTQI+ Diversity & Inclusion in the Tourism Industry – Webinar (Nov 3rd, 2022)
2022-11-03 09:00 - 12:00
The global 2SLGBTQI+ travel market is valued at more than US$200B annually. Canadian destinations are well positioned to grow their share of this market. But in order to be successful, destinations and operators must ensure that 2SLGBTQI+ customers feel welcome, accepted and are served in a way that exceeds their expectations and accommodates their needs.

To support efforts in developing market-ready products, CQCC’s Navigating 2SLGBTQI+ Diversity and Inclusion in the Tourism Industry helps tourism-based businesses learn about 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion and how to effectively understand, value, and serve 2SLGBTQI+ customers and employees.

This training is presented as a workshop webinar, live via Zoom. The webinar is being filmed in Halifax. All times are in ADT.

This free workshop is made possible by the generous support of the Government of Canada through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and their Tourism Relief Fund.

Navigating 2SLGBTQI+ Diversity & Inclusion in the Tourism Industry – Webinar (Nov 29th, 2022)
2022-11-29 13:00 - 16:00
The global 2SLGBTQI+ travel market is valued at more than US$200B annually. Canadian destinations are well positioned to grow their share of this market. But in order to be successful, destinations and operators must ensure that 2SLGBTQI+ customers feel welcome, accepted and are served in a way that exceeds their expectations and accommodates their needs.

To support efforts in developing market-ready products, CQCC’s Navigating 2SLGBTQI+ Diversity and Inclusion in the Tourism Industry helps tourism-based businesses learn about 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion and how to effectively understand, value, and serve 2SLGBTQI+ customers and employees.

This training is presented as a workshop webinar, live via Zoom.

This free workshop is made possible by the generous support of the Government of Canada through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and their Tourism Relief Fund.

Connections: Virtual Open Networking
2022-12-08 16:00 - 17:00
December 8, 20224:00 – 5:00pm EST

Networking is a vital component to succeed in business. In an effort to help you in your business, CQCC will hold regular networking sessions on related and relevant topics. These events are a great opportunity to tell us about you and your business while sharing and receiving valuable information to help you do business better – together with the community!

During these events you will have the opportunity to network with other CQCC members and discuss topics such as marketing, sales, procurement and pricing. The facilitated format will ensure everyone has a chance to share ideas, ask questions and have a time to network informally.

Don’t miss out. Register today and get ready to tell us about your business.

This session is available in English only.

What’s the Buzz? The Latest from Rainbow Registered
2023-01-10 12:00 - 13:00
Calling all Rainbow Registered accredited businesses and anyone who wants to learn about how to become part of this exciting program – the only national cross-industry standard for ensuring safe and inclusive spaces for the 2SLGBTQI+ community. Join us for the latest updates on all of our activities, opportunities for education, networking and best practice sharing.

Please sign up if you:

Are a Rainbow Registered accredited business or organization.

Are a current CQCC member who wants to learn about the benefits of becoming a Rainbow Registered business or organization.

Are a business or organization who is considering becoming a Rainbow Registered business or organization.

During this session we will:

Give updates on the program, including PR and marketing efforts.

Share best practices on maximizing your Rainbow Registered accreditation.

Highlight other programs offered by the CQCC, including membership benefits, the Certified Supplier Program, and training opportunities.

Provide an opportunity to connect and network with other Rainbow Registered businesses.

We will make time at the end for any questions and comments you may have.

Register today to learn more!

Explorer la diversité et l'inclusion des personnes 2SLGBTQI+ dans l'industrie touristique (Zoom)
2023-03-07 09:00 - 12:00
Le marché mondial des voyages 2SLGBTQI+ est évalué à plus de 200 milliards de dollars par an. Les destinations canadiennes sont bien placées pour accroître leur part de ce marché. Mais pour réussir, les destinations et les opérateurs doivent veiller à ce que les clients 2SLGBTQI+ se sentent les bienvenus, acceptés et soient servis d’une manière qui dépasse leurs attentes et répond à leurs besoins.

Grâce au financement de ce projet, L’Agence de promotion économique du Canada atlantique (APECA) s’engage à aider l’industrie touristique du Canada atlantique à devenir accueillante pour les personnes 2SLGBTQI+ et à promouvoir les destinations et les produits touristiques du Canada atlantique auprès du marché des voyages 2SLGBTQI+ à l’échelle internationale.

Pour soutenir ces efforts de développement de produits prêts pour le marché, l’atelier Explorer la diversité et l’inclusion des personnes 2SLGBTQI+ dans l’industrie touristique de CQCC aide les entreprises touristiques à découvrir l’inclusion 2SLGBTQI+, et à comprendre, valoriser et servir efficacement les clients et les employés 2SLGBTQI+.

Cette formation est présentée en format séminaire en ligne (en direct via Zoom).

Business After Hours: Getting to know the CQCC - Halifax, NS
2023-03-09 17:00 - 19:30
Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CQCC) is heading to Halifax!

We invite members to join us for an evening networking event where we will learn about the CQCC’s Supplier Diversity program, designed to assist 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs grow their business networks and opportunities, and the CQCC’s Rainbow Registered Accreditation; Canada’s national standard for safe and inclusive spaces, open to all businesses across Canada.

Hors d’oeuvres and a drink ticket will be provided. “Cashless bar” available as well – please bring your credit or debit card. Please register by March 2nd.

Members are encouraged to attend a free 2SLGBTQI+ Inclusivity training in the afternoon, which will focus on the use of language and how to create an inclusive work environment for your guests, clients and employees.

What’s the Buzz? The Latest from Rainbow Registered
2023-03-16 16:00 - 17:00
PLEASE NOTE: Note: This event is open to businesses that are presently accredited in the Rainbow Registered program or those who have submitted their program application.

Join us for the latest updates on all of our activities, opportunities for education, networking and best practice sharing.

Please sign up if you:

Are a Rainbow Registered accredited business or organization.

Are a current CQCC member who wants to learn about the benefits of becoming a Rainbow Registered business or organization.

Are a business or organization who is considering becoming a Rainbow Registered business or organization.

During this session we will:

Give updates on the program, including PR and marketing efforts.

Share best practices on maximizing your Rainbow Registered accreditation.

Highlight other programs offered by the CQCC, including membership benefits, the Certified Supplier Program, and training opportunities.

Provide an opportunity to connect and network with other Rainbow Registered businesses.

We will make time at the end for any questions and comments you may have.

Register today to learn more!

Crossing the Finish Line - A Rainbow Registered Conference
2023-03-23 12:00 - 15:00
Centered around the four pillars of the Rainbow Registered accreditation program, the Crossing the Finish Line Conference will work to empower attendees with the tools they will need to reach the national standards of the Rainbow Registered accreditation.

The Rainbow Registered accreditation program sets a rigorous set of standards that companies must meet before earning the Rainbow Registered mark and the benefits that go along with it. The conference will focus on the four key areas of the accreditation; policies and practices, training, commitment to inclusive leadership, and a culture of inclusivity.

For more information, please email connor@queerchamber.ca.

Keynote Speakers

Chris Cochrane – She/Her

Chris Cochrane is a Trans-Black activist and public speaker. She speaks and educates about her lived experience through her intersectionality. Chris works toward creating spaces for QTBIPOC people, as well as working with 2S2SLGBTQI+IQIA+ youth to ensure those spaces will be upheld for years to come. Currently, she is the Support Service Educator for The Youth Project. Chris is the former Vice Chair of Halifax Pride (2020-2022) where she used that platform to ensure equity for all of the community, while focusing on our marginalized and racialized communities. Chris also has a member of ACTRA. She is also known as her drag persona Elle Noir where she is as fierce on stage as she is in her activism. Elle Noir is an 18 Year veteran of Drag, known as a local legend and Winner of The Best Halifax Drag Performer for the last 5 years consecutively.

Tj Jones – He/They

With his business Full Picture Management, Tj supports organizations in expanding their capacity to meaningfully include and serve 2S2SLGBTQI+QIA+ folks. His work is informed by filtering his business & HR education through 20+ years of lived experience and almost a decade of 2S2SLGBTQI+QIA+ community advocacy. Driven to help improve the workplace and consumer experiences of his fellow queer and trans humans, Tj loves holding space that empowers people to investigate their biases and consider the perspectives of others.

Paula Dodick – She/Her

Rainbow Registered Certification Consultant

Paula Dodick is an educational consultant that is currently working with an independent school and supporting families looking for external academic supports and school placements. With a strong background in education for exceptional students, she continues to champion students with diverse learning profiles. Prior to her retirement from the Toronto District School Board, Paula was an elementary school principal. With many years of classroom experience in diverse communities, Paula is able to apply her understanding of diversity and equity outside the realm of education. In her last school, she supported a Gay/Straight Alliance that initiated school wide learning opportunities around 2S2SLGBTQI+QIA+ issues that culminated in a month long Pride event. During her tenure at this school, she worked with two middle school students who were transitioning, which led to the creation of practices for other middle schools to adopt as best practices when developing inclusionary practices in their schools.

Paula has worked with CQCC since the pilot project for Rainbow Registered. Having met with dozens of businesses and organizations who have developed inclusion within their workplaces, she continues to learn and reflect on the value and importance of inclusion everywhere.

Explorer la diversité et l’inclusion des personnes 2SLGBTQI+ dans l’industrie touristique (Zoom)
2023-03-29 14:00 - 17:00

VFC All Things People Conference
2023-04-04 09:00 - 17:00
Date: April 4, 2023 9:00 am – April 4, 2023 5:00 pm EST

Venture for Canada is hosting an exciting hybrid conference on April 4th! Join 400+ Founders, CEOs & People Operations Leaders to accelerate what happens when businesses put people FIRST. This year’s theme focuses on navigating and unlocking the potential of multigenerational teams, with 40+ speakers including our very own Loren Christie and keynotes Jenn Harper and Hamza Khan.

Register Today

Use code ATPLOREN15 for 15% off your ticket!

Startup Canada Tour - Whitehorse, Yukon
2023-04-25 09:00 - 17:00
Date: April 25, 2023 9:00 am – April 25, 2023 5:00 pm

Location: Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre

Join us in Whitehorse for an opportunity to connect with the Canadian entrepreneurship ecosystem, build out your network, learn from industry experts, and apply that knowledge back into your early stage business.

Don’t miss out on Early Bird prices, available until March 24!

Register Today

What to Expect

Build a networkAt each Startup Canada Tour stop you’ll have the opportunity to connect with business mentors and entrepreneur support organizations from across the country. Meet with experts in our Ask the Expert Lounge and connect with other entrepreneurs to grow your business network!

Learn from industry expertsThroughout the day, you’ll have access to a series of keynotes, panels, and workshops featuring leading industry experts. Attend insightful sessions on making your first hire to protecting your business for the future.

Drive your business forwardWhether you’re at the ideation stage or looking to expand your business, you’ll leave Startup Canada Tour with the tools and resources to take your business to the next level!

What’s the Buzz? The Latest from Rainbow Registered
2023-04-25 12:00 - 13:00
Date: April 25, 2023 12:00 pm – April 25, 2023 1:00 pm

PLEASE NOTE: This event is open to businesses that are presently accredited in the Rainbow Registered program or those who have submitted their program application.

Join us for the latest updates on all of our activities, opportunities for education, networking and best practice sharing.

Please sign up if you:

Are a Rainbow Registered accredited business or organization.

Are a current CQCC member who wants to learn about the benefits of becoming a Rainbow Registered business or organization.

Are a business or organization who is considering becoming a Rainbow Registered business or organization.

During this session we will:

Give updates on the program, including PR and marketing efforts.

Share best practices on maximizing your Rainbow Registered accreditation.

Highlight other programs offered by the CQCC, including membership benefits, the Certified Supplier Program, and training opportunities.

Provide an opportunity to connect and network with other Rainbow Registered businesses.

We will make time at the end for any questions and comments you may have.

Register today to learn more!

Register Here

Startup Canada Tour - Halifax, NS
2023-05-02 09:00 - 17:00
Date: May 2, 2023 9:00 am – May 2, 2023 5:00 pm

Location: Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

Join us in Halifax for an opportunity to connect with the Canadian entrepreneurship ecosystem, build out your network, learn from industry experts, and apply that knowledge back into your early stage business.

Don’t miss out on Early Bird prices, available until March 24!

Register Today

What to Expect

Build a networkAt each Startup Canada Tour stop you’ll have the opportunity to connect with business mentors and entrepreneur support organizations from across the country. Meet with experts in our Ask the Expert Lounge and connect with other entrepreneurs to grow your business network!

Learn from industry expertsThroughout the day, you’ll have access to a series of keynotes, panels, and workshops featuring leading industry experts. Attend insightful sessions on making your first hire to protecting your business for the future.

Drive your business forwardWhether you’re at the ideation stage or looking to expand your business, you’ll leave Startup Canada Tour with the tools and resources to take your business to the next level!

Startup Canada Tour - Vancouver, BC
2023-05-11 09:00 - 17:00
Date: May 11, 2023 9:00 am – May 11, 2023 5:00 pm

Location: The Nest at University of British Columbia

Join us in Vancouver for an opportunity to connect with the Canadian entrepreneurship ecosystem, build out your network, learn from industry experts, and apply that knowledge back into your early stage business.

Don’t miss out on Early Bird prices, available until March 24!

Register Today

What to Expect

Build a networkAt each Startup Canada Tour stop you’ll have the opportunity to connect with business mentors and entrepreneur support organizations from across the country. Meet with experts in our Ask the Expert Lounge and connect with other entrepreneurs to grow your business network!

Learn from industry expertsThroughout the day, you’ll have access to a series of keynotes, panels, and workshops featuring leading industry experts. Attend insightful sessions on making your first hire to protecting your business for the future.

Drive your business forwardWhether you’re at the ideation stage or looking to expand your business, you’ll leave Startup Canada Tour with the tools and resources to take your business to the next level!

Navigating 2SLGBTQI+ Diversity & Inclusion in the Tourism Industry – ACOA Webinar (May 24th, 2023)
2023-05-24 14:00 - 17:00
Date: May 24, 2023 2:00 pm – May 24, 2023 5:00 pm ADT

The global 2SLGBTQI+ travel market is valued at more than US$200B annually. Canadian destinations are well-positioned to grow their share of this market. But in order to be successful, destinations and operators must ensure that 2SLGBTQI+ customers feel welcome, accepted, and served in a way that exceeds their expectations and accommodates their needs.

To support efforts in developing market-ready products, CQCC’s Navigating 2SLGBTQI+ Diversity and Inclusion in the Tourism Industry helps tourism-based businesses learn about 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion and how to effectively understand, value, and serve 2SLGBTQI+ customers and employees.

This training is presented as a workshop webinar, live via Zoom. This training would not be possible without the support of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and the Government of Canada.

Register Here

Rainbow Registered Open Office Hours (June 29th, 2023) - Come Chat!
2023-06-29 15:00 - 17:00
Date: June 29, 2023 3:00 pm – June 29, 2023 5:00 pm EST

Are you interested in pursuing the Rainbow Registered program or are you an accredited Rainbow Registered business that wants to:

discuss how to maximize your accreditation

receive feedback on your current diversity & inclusion efforts

discuss any questions or concerns you are experiencing related to Rainbow Registered and 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion

The Rainbow Registered program manager is holding open office hours on the last Thursday of each month to have an ongoing, dedicated opportunity for businesses to drop in and chat with our team about whatever is on their mind.

Drop in anytime between 3 PM and 5 PM Eastern and let’s chat!

Register Here

Not able to make it to the office hours or have an urgent question? Email us anytime at rainbowregistered@queerchamber.ca , and our team is always happy to chat.

What’s the Buzz? The Latest from Rainbow Registered
2023-07-25 12:00 - 13:00
Date: July 25, 2023 12:00 pm – July 25, 2023 1:00 pm EDT

PLEASE NOTE: This event is open to businesses that are presently accredited in the Rainbow Registered program or those who have submitted their program application.

Join us for the latest updates on all of our activities, opportunities for education, networking and best practice sharing.

During this session we may:

Give updates on the program, including PR and marketing efforts.

Share best practices on maximizing your Rainbow Registered accreditation.

Highlight other programs offered by the CQCC, including membership benefits, the Certified Supplier Program, and training opportunities.

Provide an opportunity to connect and network with other Rainbow Registered businesses.

We will make time at the end for any questions and comments you may have.

Register today to learn more!

Register Here

Rainbow Registered Open Office Hours (July 27th, 2023) - Come Chat!
2023-07-27 15:00 - 17:00
Date: July 27, 2023 3:00 pm – July 27, 2023 5:00 pm EST

Are you interested in pursuing the Rainbow Registered program or are you an accredited Rainbow Registered business that wants to:

– discuss how to maximize your accreditation

– receive feedback on your current diversity & inclusion efforts

– discuss any questions or concerns you are experiencing related to Rainbow Registered and 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion?

The Rainbow Registered program manager is holding open office hours on the last Thursday of each month to have an ongoing, dedicated opportunity for businesses to drop in and chat with our team about whatever is on their mind.

Drop in anytime between 3 PM and 5 PM Eastern and let’s chat!

Register Here

Not able to make it to the office hours or have an urgent question? Email us anytime at rainbowregistered@queerchamber.ca , and our team is always happy to chat.

Unleash the Power of LinkedIn with our Exclusive Masterclass!
2023-08-09 11:00 - 12:00
Date: August 9, 2023 11:00 am – August 9, 2023 12:00 pm EDT

Location: Online

The POKR MasterClass on LinkedIn is a powerful session dedicated to optimizing your LinkedIn profile, learning strategies to connect with industry experts, and the keys to building a strong professional network. You’ll learn strategies to engage with peers, colleagues, and future revenue partners.

Don’t miss out on this unparalleled opportunity to revolutionize your LinkedIn presence and catapult your networking capabilities to unprecedented heights. Join our Masterclass now and unlock the limitless potential of LinkedIn!

Intro – Personal Story – how did we grow

Why LinkedIn – budget, personalization, credibility, validation

Update your profile – call to action.

Give Recommendations

Sample DM’s

Cadence (business post, article, personal post, videos, etc.)

Q&A

Register Now

INTRODUCING WEBINAR WEDNESDAYS!

Join us every second Wednesday of the month for our exciting and informative recurring webinars, where we dive into a world of knowledge and expertise. Explore a wide range of topics, from industry trends and best practices to cutting-edge innovations and strategies that can elevate your professional journey. Our expert speakers will captivate you with their insights, providing valuable tips, practical advice, and thought-provoking discussions.

Whether you’re just starting or looking to elevate your existing venture, our webinar series offers a supportive and inclusive environment where you can connect with like-minded individuals, expand your professional network, and foster meaningful collaborations. Led by industry experts and successful 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs, these webinars delve into various aspects of entrepreneurship, covering topics such as business development, marketing and branding, financial management, networking, and more.

Mark your calendar and join us on Wednesdays as we unlock new possibilities!

Your Host

Our Team

Darren Thompson

Chief Business Development Officer

POKR Consulting

Darren Thompson LinkedIn

Darren Thompson has over 16 years of experience with creating and sustaining sales, marketing, and business development plans. His passion is working with companies that create innovative technology and organizations that have a vested interest in making the world a more equitable and inclusive place for now and future generations. Darren has helped to build, repair and grow sales teams with a unique approach to building bridges of communication between product and consumer. Driving brand growth with a focus on interpersonal style has helped him reach successes like growing a sales team by 47% over 16 months.

What’s the Buzz? The Latest from Rainbow Registered
2023-08-23 12:00 - 13:00
Date: August 23, 2023 12:00 pm – August 23, 2023 1:00 pm EDT

PLEASE NOTE: This event is open to businesses that are presently accredited in the Rainbow Registered program or those who have submitted their program application. Join us for the latest updates on all of our activities, opportunities for education, networking and best practice sharing.

Please sign up if you:

Are a Rainbow Registered accredited business or organization.

Are a current CQCC member who wants to learn about the benefits of becoming a Rainbow Registered business or organization.

Are a business or organization who is considering becoming a Rainbow Registered business or organization.

During this session we will:

Give updates on the program, including PR and marketing efforts.

Share best practices on maximizing your Rainbow Registered accreditation.

Highlight other programs offered by the CQCC, including membership benefits, the Certified Supplier Program, and training opportunities.

Provide an opportunity to connect and network with other Rainbow Registered businesses.

We will make time at the end for any questions and comments you may have.

Register today to learn more!

Register Here
