CQCC: Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce

FAM Workshop: Building Joint Agreements and Collaborative Pitches
2026-09-17 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
Most suppliers hit a ceiling where the next contract is bigger than they can deliver alone. Partnership is how you get past it, and this is a hands-on hour spent doing exactly that.

Everyone starts from the same anonymized real opportunity, so a solopreneur and a fifteen-person firm are on common ground from minute one. A short opening covers the ways suppliers team up and the language buyers use, so no prior session or experience is needed to take part.

From there you will complete a partner fit screen live, covering capability gap, risk tolerance, delivery standards and exit terms, and keep it for any future partner conversation. In small groups you will build a joint capability statement against the scenario, then review another group’s work against a short rubric weighted toward the thing buyers care about most: does this read as one cohesive solution, or three firms stapled together?

The last stretch is the part most partnerships skip until it is too late. Scope splits. Revenue splits. Whose name goes first. What happens when the client wants to hire only one of you next year.

The breakout structure doubles as partner discovery. You meet other members with something concrete in front of you rather than a networking prompt.

IP Bootcamp for 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurs – 2026
2026-09-23 12:00 - 2026-09-25 15:00 (America/Toronto)
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 IPStrategy.

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!

Apply here

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.

The Connection Café: Your monthly blend that brews networks, and big ideas
2026-09-24 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
The Connection Café: Your monthly blend that brews networks, and big ideas

Join us on Thursday, September 24th from 2–3 PM ET for a vibrant hour of intentional networking, authentic visibility, and plenty of “omg, same!” moments with fellow 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs and changemakers. This session will be hosted by the one and only Andrew ACE Edwards of DesignACE.

Whether you’re coming to share a new idea, find your next creative partner, or just want to vibe in community, this space is for you. Expect meaningful intros, playful conversation starters, and room to celebrate your wins and share what you’re working on. Think: the energy of speed networking with the depth of a heart-to-heart.

Rainbow Registered October Info Session
2026-10-13 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Toronto)
Creating spaces where 2SLGBTQI+ people feel genuinely welcomed, respected, and safe takes more than good intentions. Rainbow Registered offers a clear, credible way to turn commitment into action.

This information session is an opportunity to learn about the benefits of Rainbow Registered accreditation and what it can offer your organisation, your staff, and the communities you serve.

In this session, we will cover:

– What Rainbow Registered accreditation represents and why it matters– The benefits of being Rainbow Registered, including trust, visibility, and accountability– How the standards support meaningful, practical inclusion– What the certification and membership process looks like in practice– The supports available throughout the journey– Time for questions and conversation

This session is designed to be welcoming, informative, and supportive—whether you’re just beginning to explore Rainbow Registered or considering next steps.

This meeting may be recorded and transcribed.

CQCC Night of Distinction: Halifax
2026-10-13 18:00 - 23:00 (America/Halifax)
We’re excited to announce that Night of Distinction, CQCC’s regional celebration of excellence in queer entrepreneurship, is coming to Halifax for an evening dedicated to recognition, connection, and impact!

Registration is opening soon for this celebration, happening October 13 in the beautiful city of Halifax!

This is night of celebration, a high-profile evening at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 recognizing outstanding corporate partners, trailblazing entrepreneurs, and the impact we’re all creating together.

What to Expect:

Distinctions & RecognitionCelebrate trailblazing 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs who are driving change and redefining excellence.

Plated DinnerEngage in meaningful conversations throughout a seated dinner that connects diverse suppliers with corporate leaders.

Vendor ShowcaseDiscover and support 2SLGBTQI+ businesses in the region.

Inspiring Keynote & EntertainmentBe moved by stories of impact and energized by drag performances, a live DJ, and dancing to close out the night.

If you have any questions about this event, please reach out to office@queerchamber.ca.

AGENDA

Coming soon!

REGISTRATION OPENING SOON

We’re curating an intimate evening focused on quality networking and cross-sector connections. To ensure your seat at the table, please ensure you submit your registration by October 9, 2026.

Doing Business in Japan - Part One
2026-10-21 14:00 - 15:30 (America/Toronto)
Join us for two practical 90-minute workshops designed to help Canadian businesses better understand the Japanese market and prepare for successful engagement in Japan.

Led by Dr. Jackie F Steele, the sessions will provide insights into the Japanese business environment, including how to effectively position your company and offerings in the market, identify opportunities, and build meaningful business relationships. Participants will also learn how to prepare their business for participation in the CQCC trade mission, with practical guidance on what to consider before entering the market.

The workshops will also explore Japanese business culture and etiquette, as well as LGBTQ considerations when doing business in Japan. Together, these sessions will help participants navigate the market with greater confidence, cultural awareness, and readiness.

Whether you are considering Japan as a new market or preparing to participate in the CQCC trade mission, these workshops will provide practical knowledge and tools to help you make the most of the opportunity.

Our Team

Dr. Jackie F Steele

Founder

enjoi Innovation

Dr. Jackie F Steele LinkedIn

View Bio

Dr. Jackie F Steele

Founder

enjoi Innovation

Dr. Jackie F. Steele is a trilingual political scientist, author, international speaker and former associate professor at the University of Tokyo. She has published 3 books and over 30 academic articles on law, policy and intersectional equity. She is a long-time collaborator of the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo and has advised for UN conferences on gender equality, diversity, LGBTQ inclusion, and diversity in disaster/crisis risk governance.
As founder and CEO of enjoi Japan K.K. (2021 – Chikuma City, Nagano, Japan) and enjoi Innovation Inc (2023 – Vancouver, BC, Canada), Dr. Steele guides leaders on Diversity and Equity for Innovation (DEI) as an evidence-based business strategy. She was selected by APAC Entrepreneur as one of the Most Inspiring Japanese Entrepreneurs 2021 and was featured in the Japan Times Series on Sustainability 2023. She served 4 years as governor of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan and is a director of the Pride Business Alliance Japan advocating for supplier diversity in Japan. Dr. Steele served as Senior DEI Business Partner for Amazon Japan G.K. from 2022-2023.
Jackie sits on the International Board of SSJJ, University of Tokyo, and she is an activator/investor with Coralus Global. Named an OUTstanding Executive 2023 by INvolve x Youtube for the Japanese market, Jackie has invested in communities championing intersectional equity through her volunteer service supporting women’s empowerment as Representative Director of FEW Japan, in supporting LGBTQ inclusion (PBAJ and REC), and most recently, she is proud to sit on the Board of the Francophone Chamber of Commerce of Greater Vancouver.

Dr. Jackie F Steele LinkedIn

CQCC Night of Distinction: Calgary
2026-10-29 18:00 - 23:00 (America/Edmonton)
Night of Distinction, CQCC’s regional celebration of excellence in queer entrepreneurship, is coming to Calgary as the final stop in this year’s cross-country celebration! Join us on October 29, 2026, for an evening dedicated to recognition, connection, and impact as we celebrate the entrepreneurs, corporate partners, and changemakers strengthening our communities from coast to coast.

Registration is opening soon for this celebration, happening October 29 in the vibrant city of Calgary!

This is night of celebration, a high-profile evening recognizing outstanding corporate partners, trailblazing entrepreneurs, and the impact we’re all creating together.

What to Expect:

Distinctions & RecognitionCelebrate trailblazing 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs who are driving change and redefining excellence.

Plated DinnerEngage in meaningful conversations throughout a seated dinner that connects diverse suppliers with corporate leaders.

Vendor ShowcaseDiscover and support 2SLGBTQI+ businesses in the region.

Inspiring Keynote & EntertainmentBe moved by stories of impact and energized by drag performances, a live DJ, and dancing to close out the night.

If you have any questions about this event, please reach out to office@queerchamber.ca.

AGENDA

Coming soon!

REGISTRATION OPENING SOON

We’re curating an intimate evening focused on quality networking and cross-sector connections. To ensure your seat at the table, please ensure you submit your registration by October 9, 2026.

Doing Business in Japan - Part Two
2026-11-12 14:00 - 15:30 (America/Toronto)
Join us for two practical 90-minute workshops designed to help Canadian businesses better understand the Japanese market and prepare for successful engagement in Japan.

Led by Dr. Jackie F Steele, the sessions will provide insights into the Japanese business environment, including how to effectively position your company and offerings in the market, identify opportunities, and build meaningful business relationships. Participants will also learn how to prepare their business for participation in the CQCC trade mission, with practical guidance on what to consider before entering the market.

The workshops will also explore Japanese business culture and etiquette, as well as LGBTQ considerations when doing business in Japan. Together, these sessions will help participants navigate the market with greater confidence, cultural awareness, and readiness.

Whether you are considering Japan as a new market or preparing to participate in the CQCC trade mission, these workshops will provide practical knowledge and tools to help you make the most of the opportunity.

Our Team

Dr. Jackie F. Steele

Founder & CEO

enjoi Innovation

Dr. Jackie F. Steele LinkedIn

View Bio

Dr. Jackie F. Steele

Founder & CEO

enjoi Innovation

Dr. Jackie F. Steele is a trilingual political scientist, author, international speaker and former associate professor at the University of Tokyo. She has published 3 books and over 30 academic articles on law, policy and intersectional equity. She is a long-time collaborator of the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo and has advised for UN conferences on gender equality, diversity, LGBTQ inclusion, and diversity in disaster/crisis risk governance.
As founder and CEO of enjoi Japan K.K. (2021 – Chikuma City, Nagano, Japan) and enjoi Innovation Inc (2023 – Vancouver, BC, Canada), Dr. Steele guides leaders on Diversity and Equity for Innovation (DEI) as an evidence-based business strategy. She was selected by APAC Entrepreneur as one of the Most Inspiring Japanese Entrepreneurs 2021 and was featured in the Japan Times Series on Sustainability 2023. She served 4 years as governor of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan and is a director of the Pride Business Alliance Japan advocating for supplier diversity in Japan. Dr. Steele served as Senior DEI Business Partner for Amazon Japan G.K. from 2022-2023.
Jackie sits on the International Board of SSJJ, University of Tokyo, and she is an activator/investor with Coralus Global. Named an OUTstanding Executive 2023 by INvolve x Youtube for the Japanese market, Jackie has invested in communities championing intersectional equity through her volunteer service supporting women’s empowerment as Representative Director of FEW Japan, in supporting LGBTQ inclusion (PBAJ and REC), and most recently, she is proud to sit on the Board of the Francophone Chamber of Commerce of Greater Vancouver.

Dr. Jackie F. Steele LinkedIn

CQCC’s 11th Annual Gala: In Full Colour!
2026-11-13 18:00 - 23:00 (America/Toronto)
CELEBRATING IN FULL COLOUR: Join us for OUR 11th Black & White Gala on November 13, 2026, at The Carlu in Toronto!

We are thrilled to announce that CQCC’s 11th Annual Black and White Gala: In Full Colour will take place on November 13, 2026, at the iconic Carlu in Toronto. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details, we can’t wait to celebrate with you in style!

If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities for Gala, please reach out to aj.stewart@queerchamber.ca. For general Gala inquiries, please reach out to office@queerchamber.ca.

GET YOUR EARLY BIRD TICKETS TODAY! AVAILABLE UNTIL SEPTEMBER 25.

Get your tickets!

At the heart of the Gala are the CQCC Business Leadership Awards, recognizing outstanding leaders driving inclusion and innovation.

These awards hold great significance as they celebrate outstanding individuals and companies who have played a special role in driving economic growth within the 2SLGBTQI+ community in Canada. They honour those who have created positive change and fostered a thriving business environment.

Know someone who deserves recognition? Submit a nomination

The gala will take place on the traditional territory of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee, and the Wendat peoples, and is home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.

For general Gala inquiries, please send an email to office@queerchamber.ca.

stay tuned… more details to come!

Webinar Wednesday: When to Consider Outside Investment
2026-12-02 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
Raising capital isn’t the right path for every business – or every stage of growth. In this session, participants will learn how to determine whether outside investment aligns with their business goals, what investors look for, and how to evaluate the different funding options available. Through practical examples and real-world insights, attendees will gain a foundational understanding of when to bootstrap, pursue debt financing, seek grants, or raise equity, leaving with a framework to make informed capital decisions.

Participants will learn:

How to determine if their business is ready for outside investment.

The differences between bootstrapping, grants, debt financing, angel investment, and venture capital.

The advantages, risks, and trade-offs of each funding option.

What investors evaluate before making an investment.

Key financial and business milestones that signal investment readiness.

Common fundraising mistakes and how to avoid them.

Our Team

Mandy Potter (she/her)

Managing Partner

Misfit Ventures

Mandy Potter (she/her) LinkedIn

View Bio

Mandy Potter (she/her)

Managing Partner

Misfit Ventures

Mandy Potter is a founder, investor, and venture capitalist with almost 20 years of experience building, scaling, acquiring, and exiting companies. She is the Co-Founder and General Partner of Misfit Ventures, Canada’s first LGBT+ venture capital fund, which invests in high-growth, underrepresented founders.

Mandy Potter (she/her) LinkedIn

Rainbow Registered December Info Session
2026-12-08 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Toronto)
