Rainbow Registered Presents: GENDERCRAFT
2026-03-16 13:00 - 14:30 (America/Halifax)
A Deeper Dive on Gender Identity & Gender Expression

Gender Expression Applications

This module begins with a review of best practices related to supporting people with diverse gender identities in three areas: personal support, institutional practices, and environmental experiences.

Following this review, there is a brief discussion of current political realities facing people with diverse gender identities, composed of discussing international context and reviewing current Canadian issues.

The bulk of the module will be a discussion of four scenarios. Each participant will have time to discuss two scenarios in detail, and review the other two scenarios as part of a debrief. Each scenario has proposed discussion questions, and most scenarios also include suggested scripts for practice.

Our Team

Eliot Newton (they|them)

Genderbandit

Eliot Newton (they|them)

Genderbandit

u003cp style=u0022text-align: leftu0022u003eu003cspan data-teams=u0022trueu0022u003eu003ciu003eEliot Newton is a genderqueer activist and educator who has been working in the 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion field for twelve years. After ten years in the nonprofit sector, working primarily in education and health care, Eliot now freelances as a gender and sexuality expert. They help teachers, small and large businesses, and community organizations make their spaces safer for queer and trans clients (as well as their staff!). You can learn more about them at their website, Genderbandit.com.u003c/iu003eu003c/spanu003eu003c/pu003e

Session Schedule:1:00-1:05 – Intro & Housekeeping1:05-1:15 – Best Practices1:15-1:35 – Scenario I Discussion1:35-1:45 – Scenario I Debrief1:45-2:05 – Scenario II Discussion2:05-2:15 – Scenario II Debrief2:15-2:30 – Next Steps & Wrap-up

Series schedule:February 23, 2026 – 1-2:30pm – Gender Identity FundamentalsMarch 2, 2026 – 1-2:30pm – Gender Identity ApplicationsMarch 9, 2026 – 1-2:30pm – Gender Expression FundamentalsMarch 16, 2026 – 1-2:30pm – Gender Expression Applications

Note: facilitator is bilingual though facilitation will be primarily in EN

Webinar Wednesday: Applying for a business loan — What is the bank looking for?
2026-03-18 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
Starting a business is hard. Finding fair financing should not be. In this active and welcoming session from BMO, we will walk new and existing business owners through a clear path to getting a startup loan in Canada. You will learn how to choose the right product for your need, how lenders decide on approvals, and what simple steps can strengthen your application. We will explain key terms in plain English.

Access to funding should never be out of reach, especially for entrepreneurs who have historically been underserved.

We will break down the different types of loans available, explain what lenders look for, and share practical steps that can help improve your chances of approval.

This session is designed to be active and engaging. We will use real examples, open discussion time, and simple explanations that make the loan process easier to understand. Whether you are starting something new or growing your current business, you will learn what you need, why lenders ask for certain documents, and how we can work together to help you access the capital you deserve.

Our goal is to make the process less confusing, more inclusive, and more successful for Canadian 2SLGBTQIA+ founders.

Key takeaways:Leave this session with a clear, simple path to get your startup financed in Canada.

You will learn how to choose the right product for your need, how much to borrow and why, and how lenders make approval decisions. We will show you, in plain English, how to prove repayment and present your business with confidence. You will hear/practice a short lender pitch.

You will understand what is different for startups and how to turn that into strengths. We will focus on the people, the plan, and proof that customers want what you sell. We will show you how owner equity, early traction, and collateral can improve your odds. We will also explain when a line of credit fits working capital, when a term loan or lease fits equipment, and when a government backed option like the Canada Small Business Financing Program may help a new business qualify.

Our Team

Kevin Cao (He/Him)

Senior Relationship Manager, Business Banking

BMO Bank of Montreal

The Connection Café: Your monthly blend that brews networks, and big ideas
2026-03-19 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
Join us on Thursday, March 19th 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.

Finance Unlocked: Managing Your Finances For A Smooth Tax Season!
2026-03-26 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
Join us for this interactive workshop that will bring: clarity & confidence during the busy period of tax season with finance expert, Parisa Pajooh!Focus: helping queer entrepreneurs being informed & prepared for tax season.

Going over the basics or essential elements for a business to make tax season easier, gathering right documents, recordkeeping best practices

Notes on filing taxes as a business vs. accounting for your business income in your personal taxes, depending on business size

Common missed deductions and general tips for self-employed people

Tax season doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. This workshop is designed for queer entrepreneurs who want to feel informed, organized, and confident about their finances.

We’ll cover the essentials to make tax time easier from: gathering the right documents and setting up simple recordkeeping systems to understanding how to file and avoiding commonly missed deductions. You’ll walk away with practical tools and clear next steps to help you keep more of what you earn.

Q-EDGE
2026-03-30 09:00 - 14:00 (America/Toronto)
Join us in Ottawa on March 30 for Q‑EDGE, CQCC’s inaugural Economic Development & Growth Exchange—created to advance 2SLGBTQI+ economic prosperity and strengthen our business ecosystem.

This high‑energy, in‑person event will bring together 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs, innovators, and ecosystem partners. The day includes open networking and a tradeshow, CQCC remarks, and a Regional Partner Spotlight featuring the Ontario Queer Chamber of Commerce (OQCC), exploring Creative Economies & Queer Innovation.

You’ll also hear from QueerTech in a timely panel on AI, access, and agency, and take part in facilitated Peer Networking designed to spark meaningful peer‑to‑peer exchange.

Whether you’re growing a business, exploring new ideas, or looking to connect with the queer business ecosystem, Q‑EDGE offers:

Actionable insights you can use right away

Meaningful connections with peers and partners

A welcoming space to learn, share, and build community

Be part of the movement advancing inclusive economic growth: come curious and leave connected. Register now!

Date & Time: March 30, 2026 | 9am-2pm ETLocation: Alma Duncan Salon @ OAG Ottawa Art Gallery, 50 Mackenzie King Bridge, Ottawa ON

AGENDA

9:00 AM: Registration Opens

9:30 AM: Mingling & Tradeshow

10:00 AM: CQCC Opening Remarks

10:30 AM: Ontario Queer Chamber of Commerce (OQCC) session on Creative Economies & Queer Innovation

11:15 AM: Break

11:30 AM: Panel Presented by QueerTech: Access & Agency: Understanding AI Before It Decides for Us

12:30 PM: Lunch (presented by Chambre de commerce LGBT du Québec)

1:15 PM: Networking Session

2:00 PM: Event Closes

MEET THE Hosts & Speakers

canadian queer chamber of commerce (cqcc)

Our Team

Darrell Schuurman (he/him)

CEO

Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce (CCQC)

Vanessa Ntinu (she/her)

Membership Services Coordinator, Supplier Diversity

Merve Tosun (she/her)

Business Development Manager, National

Hanna Haddad (he/him)

Business Development Manager, East

Chris Mariano (he/him)

Business Development Manager, West

ontario queer chamber of commerce (OQCC)Creative Economies & Queer Innovation

Our Team

Jeff St. Denis, MBA (he/him)

Founder & CEO

Culture Catalyst Inc.

Steven Hilliard (he/him)

Program & Events Coordinator

OQCC

Chimaera (she/her)

Speaker

Chambre de commerce lgbt du québec (cclgbt)

Our Team

Mathieu Vézina, MBA (il/lui/he/him)

Président du conseil d'administration

CCLGBT

QueertechAccess & Agency: Understanding AI Before It Decides for Us

Our Team

Eustacio (Andy) Saldaña (he/they)

Moderator

COO & Co-Founder

QueerTech

Catherine LeBoeuf (she/her)

Manager in Advisory, Technology & Data

BDO Canada

Puja Pachchigar (she/her)

CEO & Product Lead

GoKidu

Mitch Schwartz (he/him)

Founder

Ops Machine

Tristan Smyth (they/them)

Managing Director | CEO

Propel Impact | Propel Impact Capital.

REGISTER HERE!

Please note that dietary restrictions may not be able to be accommodated for registrations received after March 18, 2026.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.123Contact information:Full Name *FirstLastPronoun(s)She/HerShe/TheyHe/HimHe/TheyThey/ThemHe/She/TheyOther (please specify)Other: *Email *PhoneAre you or your business one of the following? *CQCC Certified SupplierCQCC Corporate MemberRainbow RegisteredCQCC FAM MemberCQCC Affiliate Member2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneur, but not a CQCC memberRepresentative from an ecosystem or affiliate organizationGovernment representativeMedia representativeI’m not a 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneur, but interested in attendingCQCC staff / SpeakerNextJob title *Company name *Company URL *Demographic questions (optional)Before we proceed with the demographic questions, we want to share why we are asking for this information. The Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce (CQCC) is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment for all entrepreneurs and community members. Collecting data on race, gender identity, and other demographic factors allows us to:
– Understand the diverse makeup of our community and ensure that our programs and initiatives are accessible and relevant to everyone.

– Identify and address any gaps or barriers that equity-deserving groups may face in accessing our services.

– Measure our progress towards creating a more inclusive ecosystem and inform our strategies for continuous improvement.

Please be assured that your responses will be kept confidential and used solely to enhance our programs and support diversity and inclusion within our community. Please indicate the languages you speak or understand. (Please select all that apply) * *EnglishFrenchWhich of the following best describes your primary geographical location? (Please select one)Rural CommunityRemote CommunityNorthern CommunityUrban/Suburban CommunityNone of the aboveRural: outside of urban and suburban communities but within reasonable driving distance of an urban centre.
Remote: not within reasonable driving distance of an urban centre, limited access to services and infrastructure.Could you tell us about your cultural or ethnic background? Please describe your background in the way you identify with it most.Do you identify as a member of the 2SLGBTQI+ community? (Please select one)YesNoPrefer not to sayWhich 2SLGBTQI+ communities do you identify with? (Please select all that apply)LesbianGayBisexualTransgenderQueerIntersexAsexualTwo SpiritNon-binaryOtherOther *Understanding gender identity will help us tailor our programs and support to meet everyone's needs. Please select the option(s) that best describe your gender identity. (Please select all that apply)WomanManNon-binaryTwo SpiritTransgenderPrefer not to sayOtherOther *To better support equity-deserving groups, we are also interested in understanding if you identify as part of any of the following groups. (Please select all that apply)Black CommunityOther racialized communitiesIndigenous Peoples (First Nations, Métis, Inuit)Persons with disabilitiesNewcomersRefugeesVeteransPrefer not to sayOtherNot applicableOther *NextQuestions about the eventDietary restrictions, if anyVegetarianGluten-freeDairy-freeLactose intoleranceAllergies (please specify in others)HalalKosherOther (please specify)Other: *Accessibility needs, if anyWheelchair AccessibilitySign language interpretationOther (please specify)Other: *How did you hear about this event? *Search engine (Google, Yahoo, Bing, etc)CQCC LinkedInCQCC FacebookCQCC InstagramCQCC NewsletterCQCC staffSocial media (not a CQCC account)Word of MouthOther (please specify below)Other *Comments or Questions?Image consentBy registering, you consent to the following: *You may be filmed or photographed during the event. They might be used for promotional material, including advertisements on CQCC social media and website. If you have any concerns, please notify a staff member upon arrival.I agree to receive communications from CQCC.I agree to receive promotional communications from CQCC. In order to provide you the content requested, we need to store and process your personal data.You may unsubscribe from these communications at any time. For more information please review our Privacy Policy at https://queerchamber.ca/privacy-policy/Sign me up!

presented in partnership with

Meet the CITY OF TORONTO
2026-04-01 13:00 - 13:45 (America/Toronto)
City of Toronto – The Municipal Government provides programs and services to Toronto residents, businesses, and visitors. Toronto is home to more than 2.9 million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse cities.

This session provides information on how to do business with the City of Toronto, capturing information on the City of Toronto purchasing activity, policies, and the Social Procurement Program.

For CQCC Certified Suppliers ONLY

Foundations Of Your Marketing Strategy: Goals, ICP & Positioning
2026-04-23 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
Built To Be Seen: A Queer Marketing Lab series, led by creative-industry expert, Charles McFarland!

Want marketing that actually works and feels aligned? Join us on Thursday, April 23 at 2pm ET to explore the foundations of your marketing strategy: goals, ICP, & positioning! This interactive workshop will help you build a clear, practical foundation…without the jargon or overwhelm.

You’ll define your Ideal Customer Profile (ICP) – who you help, what they need, and why you – and learn a simple framework to create messaging that sparks curiosity, builds trust, and drives action. We’ll also touch on communicating your value and pricing in a way that reflects outcomes, not just hours.

✨ What you’ll walk away with:

1–2 clear, measurable marketing goals

A draft of your Ideal Customer Profile (ICP)

A foundational positioning statement

Practical tools to create aligned, effective messaging

*** Each workshop in this series is designed to build on the others, offering a cohesive, step-by-step journey rather than standalone sessions. We strongly recommend attending all workshops in the series to get the most out of the experience and knowledge.

We’re excited to partner with Massimadi Fondation for this workshop series! Their mission is to celebrate Afro LGBTQ+ artists and their cultural contributions through vibrant, multidisciplinary events. Attend the workshop series for a chance to score a pass to their upcoming virtual programming! Learn more about Massimadi Fondation.

Vancouver Startup Week - Queer Coffee Connector
2026-04-30 08:30 - 09:30 (America/Vancouver)
Join the Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce (CQCC) and Queer Business BC (QBBC) for a casual coffee networking hour for queer entrepreneurs, start-ups, and ecosystem partners.

We are proud to be official partners of Vancouver Startup Week 2026 (VSW). This event is part of the VSW 2026 schedule of events and is offered for free to VSW All-Access Pass holders on a first come first served basis.

If you would like to purchase a VSW 2026 All-Access Pass, you can do so online at www.vanstartupweek.ca using our 20% off promo code: CQCC20.

If you would like to attend the Queer Coffee Connector, but not Vancouver Startup Week, please email chris.mariano@queerchamber.ca to reserve your spot.

Location: VSW HQ, One Bentall Centre, #950, 505 Burrard Street, VancouverDate and time: Thursday, April 30, 2026 | 8:30 – 9:30 AMCQCC Code for 20% off VSW 2026 All-Access Passes: CQCC20

Register below to let us know you’re coming!

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.12Contact information:Full Name *FirstLastPronoun(s)She/HerShe/TheyHe/HimHe/TheyThey/ThemHe/She/TheyOther (please specify)Other: *Email *PhoneAre you or your business one of the following? *CQCC Certified SupplierQBBC MemberCQCC FAM MemberRainbow RegisteredCQCC Corporate MemberRepresentative from an ecosystem or affiliate organization2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneur, but not a CQCC or QBBC memberI’m not a 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneur, but interested in attendingNextJob title *Company name *Company URL *Questions about the eventDietary restrictions, if anyVegetarianGluten-freeDairy-freeLactose intoleranceAllergies (please specify in others)HalalKosherOther (please specify)Other: *How did you hear about this event? *Search engine (Google, Yahoo, Bing, etc)CQCC Social MediaQBBC Social MediaCQCC NewsletterQBBC NewsletterCQCC staffQBBC staffWord of MouthOther (please specify below)Other *Comments or Questions?Sign me up!

Rainbow Registered Presents: GENDERCRAFT
2026-04-30 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Halifax)
A Deeper Dive on Gender Identity & Gender Expression

Gender Identity Fundamentals

This module is primarily concerned with deepening understanding of the term “gender identity”. It discusses five major components of gender identity: sense of self, community identity, societal influences, biology, and time.

The module proceeds to discuss intersectionality and the ways gender interacts with other aspects of identity. There is a brief discussion of pronouns, and the distinction between pronouns and identity. The module continues with a detailed examination of cisgender privilege, to ground the theoretical discussion and prepare participants to explore the scenarios in Module II.

Gender Identity Fundamentals concludes by addressing current political context for trans people internationally and nationally, and possible actions.

Our Team

Eliot Newton (they|them)

Genderbandit

Eliot Newton (they|them)

Genderbandit

u003cp style=u0022text-align: leftu0022u003eu003cspan data-teams=u0022trueu0022u003eu003ciu003eEliot Newton is a genderqueer activist and educator who has been working in the 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion field for twelve years. After ten years in the nonprofit sector, working primarily in education and health care, Eliot now freelances as a gender and sexuality expert. They help teachers, small and large businesses, and community organizations make their spaces safer for queer and trans clients (as well as their staff!). You can learn more about them at their website, Genderbandit.com.u003c/iu003eu003c/spanu003eu003c/pu003e

Series schedule:April 30, 2026 – 1-2:30pm AST – Gender Identity FundamentalsMay 7, 2026 – 1-2:30pm AST – Gender Identity ApplicationsMay 21 2026 – 1-2:30pm AST – Gender Expression FundamentalsMay 28, 2026 – 1-2:30pm AST – Gender Expression Applications

Note: facilitator is bilingual though facilitation will be primarily in EN

Webinar Wednesday: How to Grant write as a Queer Entrepreneur
2026-05-06 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
Running a queer-owned business is an act of resistance. Every day you open your doors or launch your services you are proving that our community belongs in the marketplace. But let’s be real: resistance is exhausting when you’re underfunded.

If you’ve been DIY-ing your growth, maxing out personal credit cards, or skipping your own paycheque because you think grants are “just for non-profits,” this 60-minute session is your wake-up call. If you aren’t applying, you’re not only missing out, you’re leaving possible money on the table.

You will learn 1) what types of grants are available to for profit businesses, 2) how to assess your eligibility, 3) where to find relevant opportunities, and 4) how to prepare a strong application. You’ll leave with clearer direction, practical next steps, and greater confidence to pursue funding that supports your growth rather than hinders it.

Vanessa Burns, GPC is the founder of Vanessa Burns Grant Consulting. She teaches small businesses and nonprofits how to navigate the world of grants using purpose, not panic. Vanessa is 1 of 6 Canadians to hold the Grant Professionals Certified accreditation and since 2021, Vanessa has worked with over 130 clients to help them apply for first time grants, become more confident in their grants programs, and win much needed funding.

Register below and you will get a Zoom link in the next few days.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.First Name *Last Name *Email *Job Title *Organization *Industry *City *Are you a 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneur *YesNoSubmit

Rainbow Registered Presents: GENDERCRAFT (Part 2)
2026-05-07 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Halifax)
A Deeper Dive on Gender Identity & Gender Expression

Gender Identity Applications

This module begins with a review of best practices related to supporting people with diverse gender identities in three areas: personal support, institutional practices, and environmental experiences.

Following this review, there is a brief discussion of current political realities facing people with diverse gender identities, discussing international context and reviewing current Canadian issues.

The bulk of the module will be a discussion of four scenarios. Each participant will have time to discuss two scenarios in detail, and review the other two scenarios as part of a debrief. Each scenario has proposed discussion questions, and most scenarios also include suggested scripts for practice.

Our Team

Eliot Newton (they|them)

Genderbandit

Eliot Newton (they|them)

Genderbandit

u003cp style=u0022text-align: leftu0022u003eu003cspan data-teams=u0022trueu0022u003eu003ciu003eEliot Newton is a genderqueer activist and educator who has been working in the 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion field for twelve years. After ten years in the nonprofit sector, working primarily in education and health care, Eliot now freelances as a gender and sexuality expert. They help teachers, small and large businesses, and community organizations make their spaces safer for queer and trans clients (as well as their staff!). You can learn more about them at their website, Genderbandit.com.u003c/iu003eu003c/spanu003eu003c/pu003e

Series schedule:April 30, 2026 – 1-2:30pm AST – Gender Identity FundamentalsMay 7, 2026 – 1-2:30pm AST – Gender Identity ApplicationsMay 21 2026 – 1-2:30pm AST – Gender Expression FundamentalsMay 28, 2026 – 1-2:30pm AST – Gender Expression Applications

Note: facilitator is bilingual though facilitation will be primarily in EN

Rainbow Registered Presents: GENDERCRAFT (Part 3)
2026-05-21 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Halifax)
A Deeper Dive on Gender Identity & Gender Expression

Gender Expression Fundamentals

This module is primarily concerned with deepening understanding of the term “gender expression”.

It explores some of the myriad ways identity can be expressed, and reviews real-life examples of gender expression being restricted, both formally and informally. The module connects gender expression to other intersectional factors of identity. Gender Expression Fundamentals concludes with three small action items and a discussion of “personal inventory” as preparation for engaging in allyship. There will also be time for Q&A.

Our Team

Eliot Newton (they|them)

Genderbandit

Eliot Newton (they|them)

Genderbandit

u003cp style=u0022text-align: leftu0022u003eu003cspan data-teams=u0022trueu0022u003eu003ciu003eEliot Newton is a genderqueer activist and educator who has been working in the 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion field for twelve years. After ten years in the nonprofit sector, working primarily in education and health care, Eliot now freelances as a gender and sexuality expert. They help teachers, small and large businesses, and community organizations make their spaces safer for queer and trans clients (as well as their staff!). You can learn more about them at their website, Genderbandit.com.u003c/iu003eu003c/spanu003eu003c/pu003e

Series schedule:April 30, 2026 – 1-2:30pm AST – Gender Identity FundamentalsMay 7, 2026 – 1-2:30pm AST – Gender Identity ApplicationsMay 21 2026 – 1-2:30pm AST – Gender Expression FundamentalsMay 28, 2026 – 1-2:30pm AST – Gender Expression Applications

Note: facilitator is bilingual though facilitation will be primarily in EN

Rainbow Registered Presents: GENDERCRAFT (Part 4)
2026-05-28 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Halifax)
A Deeper Dive on Gender Identity & Gender Expression

Gender Expression Applications

This module begins with a review of best practices related to supporting people with diverse gender identities in three areas: personal support, institutional practices, and environmental experiences.

Following this review, there is a brief discussion of current political realities facing people with diverse gender identities, composed of discussing international context and reviewing current Canadian issues.

The bulk of the module will be a discussion of four scenarios. Each participant will have time to discuss two scenarios in detail, and review the other two scenarios as part of a debrief. Each scenario has proposed discussion questions, and most scenarios also include suggested scripts for practice.

Our Team

Eliot Newton (they|them)

Genderbandit

Eliot Newton (they|them)

Genderbandit

u003cp style=u0022text-align: leftu0022u003eu003cspan data-teams=u0022trueu0022u003eu003ciu003eEliot Newton is a genderqueer activist and educator who has been working in the 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion field for twelve years. After ten years in the nonprofit sector, working primarily in education and health care, Eliot now freelances as a gender and sexuality expert. They help teachers, small and large businesses, and community organizations make their spaces safer for queer and trans clients (as well as their staff!). You can learn more about them at their website, Genderbandit.com.u003c/iu003eu003c/spanu003eu003c/pu003e

Series schedule:April 30, 2026 – 1-2:30pm AST – Gender Identity FundamentalsMay 7, 2026 – 1-2:30pm AST – Gender Identity ApplicationsMay 21 2026 – 1-2:30pm AST – Gender Expression FundamentalsMay 28, 2026 – 1-2:30pm AST – Gender Expression Applications

Note: facilitator is bilingual though facilitation will be primarily in EN

Built to be Seen: a Queer Marketing Lab - Your StoryBrand Messaging & High-Impact Content For Collateral
2026-05-28 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
*RESCHEDULED TO MAY 28th

Ready to cut through the noise? Get into the nitty gritty with brand positioning to help you nail your “differentiated promise” using the actual language your client community uses. Building on takeaways from the first session, Charles will show you how to turn that messaging into reusable content assets (like website copy and sales decks) that stop the back-and-forth and make saying “yes” easier for your clients.

We’re excited to partner with Massimadi Fondation for this workshop series! Their mission is to celebrate Afro LGBTQ+ artists and their cultural contributions through vibrant, multidisciplinary events. Attend the workshop series for a chance to score a pass to their upcoming virtual programming! Learn more about Massimadi Fondation.

Webinar Wednesday: Prepping Your Company for International Markets
2026-06-09 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
What makes a company truly ready for global business? Preparation, strategy, and credibility.

This session explores how suppliers and members can strengthen their market readiness, build international credibility, and position their products and services for export success via trade missions, research, promotional material and leveraging your queer identity. Learn practical strategies for documentation, partnerships, market positioning, compliance, and understanding networking. Create a company that international buyers are ready to trust.

Our Team

Peter Hawkins (he/him)

Vice President

Mellohawk Logistics

Peter Hawkins (he/him)

Vice President

Mellohawk Logistics

BCCC Co-Chair Peter Hawkins is an award-winning, international business owner and entrepreneur. He is a mentor, board member, and champion of business, progress, newcomers, new graduates, women, entrepreneurs, and people without networks.

Built to be seen: A queer marketing lab - Optimizing your channels, metrics & A/B testing
2026-06-25 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
Join us on June 25th at 2pm EST for our FINAL workshop with Charles McFarland! We will focus on optimizing your channels, metrics & A/B testing for more visibility.

Ready to turn your strategy into consistent momentum? In this final hands-on session, we’re putting your messaging into motion. Charles will coach you live on your Brandscripts and show you exactly where to “fish” by matching the right marketing channels to your ICP. You’ll learn how to test, measure, and scale your visibility strategies so you know what’s actually working. Leave with a concrete, 30-day action plan to confidently drive predictable growth.

We’re excited to partner with Inside Out Festival and Fondation Massimadi for this workshop series! Massimadi is offering a chance to our workshop attendees to win free tickets to their programming in October 2026!

See you there!

Webinar Wednesday : The Stories We Inherit, The Businesses We Build: Understanding Strategy in a World Full of Noise
2026-07-08 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
Session 1: The Stories We Inherit, The Businesses We Build: Understanding Strategy in a World Full of Noise

This session introduces participants to the foundations of strategic thinking and explores why many entrepreneurs mistake activity for strategy.

Through the lens of queer entrepreneurship, participants will examine how societal expectations, business myths, and inherited ideas about success can shape the way we make decisions in our businesses.

The session will explore:

What strategy is and what it is not

The difference between goals, vision, and strategy

Why many businesses operate without a clear strategy

Common characteristics of “bad strategy,” including vague ambitions, endless to-do lists, and the pressure to do everything at once

How successful organizations identify and focus on their most important challenges

The role of focus, prioritization, and trade-offs in building sustainable businesses

Participants will be introduced to a simple Strategic Diagnosis Framework that can be used to evaluate business decisions and identify where time, energy, and resources can have the greatest impact.

By the end of the session, participants will have a practical understanding of strategic thinking and a framework they can apply to their own businesses, creative practices, and entrepreneurial projects.

FAM Workshop: The Choices We Make, The Businesses We Create
2026-07-15 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
A strategy is only useful if it helps guide decisions.

Building on the concepts from Session 1, join us with Nissrine Shuman in this interactive workshop to help participants apply strategic thinking directly to their own businesses, creative practices, or entrepreneurial projects.

Every business is shaped by the choices we make: how we lead, communicate, adapt, and grow. Join us for this engaging FAM Workshop as we explore how intentional decision-making can help you build a business that reflects your values while setting you up for long-term success. Through practical insights and meaningful discussion, you’ll gain strategies to navigate uncertainty, make confident business decisions, and create with purpose. Whether you’re launching something new or looking to refine your next steps, this workshop offers valuable tools to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

The focus is not on doing more. It is on doing the right things, at the right time, with the resources available.

Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of where they are, where they want to go, and the strategic choices that can help them get there.

The Connection Café: Your monthly blend that brews networks, and big ideas
2026-07-16 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
The Connection Café: Your monthly blend that brews networks, and big ideas

Join us on Thursday, July 16th 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.

CQCC X TELUS Supplier Diversity Day
2026-09-11 11:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
Join us for a dynamic morning of candid conversation, shared learning, and practical connection-building at the CQCC x TELUS Supplier Diversity Day. This event brings together corporate leaders and diverse suppliers, thoughtfully matched by sector, goals, and logistics, to foster meaningful engagement and unlock new procurement opportunities. Together, we will explore how to strengthen pathways for diverse suppliers within corporate supply chains while building relationships that drive inclusive economic growth.

Location: 25 York Street, Toronto, ON – Flex Space | Floor 3

This event is exclusively for CQCC Certified Suppliers.

Agenda

10:20 – 11:00 – Registration Starts

11:00 – 11:10 – Entrance & Networking

11:10 – 11:20 – Opening Remarks

Welcome remarks from CQCC and TELUS. Overview of the day’s objectives.

11:20 – 12:05 – Interactive Panel and Table Dialogue

12:05 – 12:15 – Transition Break

Short break to allow for movement and preparation for the lunch session.

12:15 – 13:15 – Lunch

12:45 – 13:05 – Keynote Session

13:15 – 14:35 – Matchmaking Sessions

Extended matchmaking sessions form the core of the afternoon. Participants take part in structured rounds of pre-matched meetings, including one-to-one and small group discussions. Rotations occur at set intervals (25 mins) to maximize the number of meaningful connections.

14:35 – 14:45 – Closing Remarks

Closing reflections from CQCC and TELUS, including key takeaways, next steps, and upcoming opportunities for continued engagement within the supplier diversity programme.

14:45 – 15:00 – Open Networking and Follow-Ups

Participants reconnect with key contacts, exchange information, and identify the next steps for potential partnerships and collaboration.

Register

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.First Name *Surname *PronounsEmail *Job Title *Organization *City *Industry *How would you best describe your business size? *Microenterprise (less than 10 employees)Small (10-49 employees)Medium (50-249 employees)Large (250+ employees)What, if anything, is your affiliation with CQCC? *Certified SupplierRainbow RegisteredFAMOUT For BusinessCorporate PartnerEcosystem Fund RecipientCommunity Partner / Regional AffiliateCQCC staff / Board memberNot a memberNot a member, but interested!OtherIs your SME owned and managed by an equity-deserving group that has been served? *2SLGBTQI+WomenVisible minoritiesIndigenous PersonsYouthPersons with disabilitiesN/AAre you from a rural, remote, or northern community? *YesNoAre you a 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneur? *YesNoIf you have any accessibility requests, please mention belowWe will try our best to accommodate your needs.If you have any dietary restrictions, please mention belowSubmit
