CQCC: Canada's 2SLGBQTI+ Chamber of Commerce

Connections: Virtual Open Networking
2022-12-08 16:00 - 17:00 (America/Vancouver)
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

Navigating 2SLGBTQI+ Diversity & Inclusion in the Tourism Industry – Webinar (Sept 20th, 2023)
2023-09-20 12:00 - 14:30
Date: September 20, 2023 12:00 pm – September 20, 2023 2:30 pm ET

The global 2SLGBTQI+ market is significant and ever-growing. To tap into this potential, businesses must ensure that 2SLGBTQI+ staff and customers feel welcomed, accepted, and are provided with services that exceed their expectations and cater to their needs.

To bolster initiatives in fostering inclusive environments, CQCC’s Navigating 2SLGBTQI+ Diversity and Inclusion program educates businesses on 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion. The goal is to help businesses effectively understand, value, and serve the 2SLGBTQI+ community.

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

Register Here

What’s the Buzz? The Latest from Rainbow Registered (September 2023)
2023-09-26 12:00 - 13:00
Date: September 26, 2023 12:00 pm – September 26, 2023 1:00 pm ET

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 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.

Important: Registration link for this session will be sent to all eligible businesses via e-mail in advance.

Startup Canada Tour - Calgary, AB
2023-09-28 09:00 - 17:00
Date: September 28, 2023 9:00 am – September 28, 2023 5:00 pm

Location: BMO Centre at Stampede Park – Palomino Ballroom

Join us in Calgary 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 July 28!

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!

Rainbow Registered Open Office Hours (Sept 28th, 2023) - Come Chat!
2023-09-28 15:00 - 17:00
Date: September 28, 2023 3:00 pm – September 28, 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 any time 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 at rainbowregistered@queerchamber.ca and our team is always happy to chat.

CQCC Members-Only Webinar | Growing your business with the Canadian Small Business Financing Loan
2023-10-11 11:00 - 12:00
Date: October 11, 2023 11:00 am – October 11, 2023 12:00 pm

Learn how to start or expand your business with the Canadian Small Business Financing Loan Program (CSBFL). CSBFL is a treat financing option through TD and the Government of Canada to help small business owners that can help fund many aspects of their business needs.

Takeaways: You will learn how the program works, the qualification criteria, and how it can help your business needs.

Register Here

Your speaker

Our Team

Ivan Ding

Account Manager, Small Business

TD Business Banking

Ivan Ding

Account Manager, Small Business

TD Business Banking

I have a tenure of more than 11 years with TD. In the past, I held the position of Customer Services Manager. Presently, I have been serving as an Account Manager Small Business (AMSB) for approximately 4 years. In my current role, my main focus is on nurturing strong personal and professional relationships with our Small Business Banking clients.rnrnMy primary objective is to offer optimal solutions to address our clients’ various needs, whether it pertains to launching a business, ensuring financial stability and resilience, fostering business expansion, or facilitating business transitions. I firmly believe that my extensive knowledge of credit products will bring enhanced value to my clients’ businesses.

What’s the Buzz? The Latest from Rainbow Registered (October 2023)
2023-10-24 12:00 - 13:00
Date: October 24, 2023 12:00 pm – October 24, 2023 1:00 pm ET

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 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.

Important: Registration link for this session will be sent to all eligible businesses via e-mail in advance.

Meet the Buyer – Sonami
2023-10-31 14:00 - 15:00
Companies in the manufacturing industry, SONAMI can support you with your R&D Leverage SONAMI support and partner with a post-secondary institution

Canadian companies within the manufacturing industry, did you know you can get access to federal funding, expertise from post-secondary institutions, and state-of-the-art equipment through the Southern Ontario Network for Advanced Manufacturing Innovation (SONAMI)?

Let SONAMI be your in-house research and development (R&D) team.

SONAMI is a Niagara College-led network of eleven post-secondary institutions, who, through their respective Research and Innovation Centres, collaborate with small- and medium-sized companies to tackle their manufacturing-related challenges.

Why should you leverage support from SONAMI?

1:1.2 match for company cash and in-kind contributions

For example: 10K invested into the project by SONAMI, and $12K financed by the company (20% should be in cash the rest can be in-kind or cash)

Companies keep their Intellectual Property (IP)

Streamlined application process (no long application form, just contact SONAMI)

Companies approach with a concept and/or challenge, then researchers develop and test innovative solutions that meet the manufacturer’s requirements

No administrative or compliance hassles

Serves companies in all of Canada

Continual intake process

Capabilities include:

automation

additive manufacturing technologies

product testing & validation

information & communication technology (including cyber security)

process optimization

simulation & modelling

commercialization and intellectual property protection support, and many more

Your company may be a good fit to work with SONAMI, even though your challenge does not neatly fit with the capabilities mentioned above. For example, SONAMI can help companies:

reduce the carbon footprint in their packaging

that do not manufacture products, but serve manufacturing companies

protect critical business data and information

Contact Mitchell Lutz, Business Development Lead at SONAMI mlutz@niagaracollege.ca to discuss how you can leverage assistance from SONAMI for challenges your company is facing.

Learn more on SONAMI’s website.

Watch a quick overview of SONAMI:

Your speaker

Our Team

Mitchell Lutz

Business Development Lead

SONAMI

Mitchell Lutz

Business Development Lead

SONAMI

Mitchell Lutz is the Business Development Lead for the Southern Ontario Network for Advanced Manufacturing Innovation (SONAMI), a Niagara College-led consortium of eleven academic institutions supporting manufacturers’ research and development needs through applied research projects.rnrnIn his role, Mitchell is responsible for researching, planning, and implementing new target market initiatives and supporting the recruitment and outreach activities of the network.

Interested in learning more about some of our Corporate Partners? This is the perfect opportunity to meet some of our partners at the CQCC and see what they are specifically looking for in procurement.

Please note that our Meet The Buyer sessions are for certified diverse suppliers only – for more information on becoming a certified supplier with CQCC, click here or email us at supplierdiversity@queerchamber.ca.

Rainbow Registered Holiday Gift Guide 2023
2023-11-01 00:00 - 2023-12-31 23:59
Dive into a world of unique, inclusive gifts from Rainbow Registered accredited businesses. Support 2S2SLGBTQI+ friendly businesses this festive season.

Insurance benefits for Entrepreneurs
2023-11-08 11:00 - 12:00
By Kate Madden

Rainbow Registered Open Office Hours (Nov 23rd, 2023) - Come Chat!
2023-11-23 15:00 - 17:00
Date: November 23, 2023 3:00 pm – November 23, 2023 5:00 pm ET

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 any time 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 at rainbowregistered@queerchamber.ca and our team is always happy to chat.

What’s the Buzz? The Latest from Rainbow Registered (November 2023)
2023-11-28 12:00 - 13:00
Date: November 28, 2023 12:00 pm – November 28, 2023 1:00 pm ET

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 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.

Important: Registration link for this session will be sent to all eligible businesses via e-mail in advance.

Numbers to Navigate: Year-End Tax, Accounting & Payroll Prep
2023-11-29 11:00 - 12:00
Date: November 29, 2023 11:00 am – November 29, 2023 12:00 pm

Join us for an insightful journey into financial preparedness at the exclusive workshop ‘Numbers to Navigate: Year-End Tax, Accounting & Payroll Prep’, presented by the experts at Zenbooks, Canada’s go-to online accounting and bookkeeping firm. As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to equip yourself with essential knowledge to navigate your year-end business financials and proactively strategize for 2024 and beyond.

After the event Zenbooks’ is offering complimentary 1-1 consultations exclusively for CQCC’s certified suppliers and OUT for Business entrepreneurs of the CQCC. In these personalized 30-minute sessions, connect with tax and accounting pros to address your unique challenges and future goals. Whether it’s tax queries or advice on accounting or payroll strategies, Zenbooks will pair you with a specialist best suited to provide expert recommendations and tailored insights to help you elevate your business.

Attend the workshop to know more about the availing the free consultations!

Sign Up Here

Your speakers

Our Team

Ashley Saunders

Payroll Coordinator

Alex Van Dyke

Tax Accountant

Victoria Squire, CPA

Senior Accountant

Madison Burns, PCP

Payroll Manager
