CQCC: Canada's 2SLGBQTI+ Chamber of Commerce

What's the Buzz - Turning Awareness Into Action: The Applied Inclusion Workshop
2025-12-03 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Toronto)
Ready to put inclusion into daily practice?

For our final What’s the Buzz of the year, we are excited to welcome back Rachel Glover (she/her), VP of Learning & Development at STEM Consulting and experienced Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion facilitator for part 2 of Turning Awareness Into Action: The Applied Inclusion Workshop where we will be focused on applying inclusive skills through discussion, reflection, and scenario-based learning.

Missed Part 1? No worries! We’ll start with a quick refresher to ensure everyone has the foundation needed for deeper, applied learning.

You’ll strengthen your ability to respond effectively in complex situations, practice inclusive communication, and leave with clear next steps you can put into action.

PLUS — participants will receive an exclusive post-workshop digital workbook to support continued learning

Our Team

Rachel Glover (she/her)

VP of Learning and Development

Publicus

The Connection Café: Your monthly blend that brews networks, and big ideas
2025-12-04 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
Join us on Thursday, December 4th 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.

QBBC x CQCC: Queer Holiday Market 2025
2025-12-10 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Vancouver)
Brought to you by Queer Business BC and Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce

Join us at Queer Business BC x Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce (CQCC) Queer Holiday Market at The Birdhouse (Vancouver) for a festive celebration of all things queer and holiday!

Hosted by the incomparable Hotmale, this year’s market will feature 15 incredible vendors offering unique gifts, art, and goodies — perfect for spreading love and cheer this season.

Come support local 2SLGBTQIA+ creators and find one-of-a-kind treasures for your loved ones (or yourself!). Whether you’re hunting for the perfect stocking stuffer or simply want to soak up some queer holiday magic, this event is not to be missed.

Enjoy delicious bites from local food trucks and a fully licensed venue, making it the perfect evening to shop, sip, and celebrate with community.

See you there!

Note: Early entry is not permitted as the venue is closed for a member-only VIP-hour. To learn more about QBBC and CQCC membership, please visit websites.

members-only opportunity

QBBC x CQCC Members-Only VIP Hour

QBBC and CQCC members are invited to kick off the Queer Holiday Market 2025 in style with an exclusive VIP Hour from 5–6 PM before the market opens to the public.
Join us for this special members-only experience where you can browse unique gifts, chat with local 2SLGBTQIA+ vendors, and soak in the festive atmosphere without the crowds. It’s the perfect chance to get first pick of your favorite items, connect with community, and enjoy a more personal start to the evening before the public celebration begins. PS – There may be prizes!
Members are also welcome to bring business cards, postcards, or brochures to display at our Member Showcase Table — a table we’ll set up during the VIP Hour to help you share your work, services, and creative projects with fellow members and attendees throughout the evening.
If you’d like to attend, you must RSVP here.
See you there!

RSVP here!

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?

Yes. To read more about The Birdhouse’s accessibility, click here.

Will there be alcoholic beverages onsite?

Yes, the event is fully licensed. We will only be IDing at the bar, please bring 2 pieces of identification.

Are minors allowed admission?

Yes! All are welcome but folks under 19 years of age are required to be accompanied by a guardian.

The Sales Lab: Networking as a Marketing Superpower
2025-12-11 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
Networking is hands down the fastest way to get clients but it can trigger a lot of big feelings around rejection, fear of putting yourself out there, social anxiety, or just feeling icky.

Real talk: Great networkers aren’t born, they’re made! Every entrepreneur can turn themselves into a fabulous conversationalist who can spot an opportunity a mile away and leverage the power of networking to grow their business and brand faster and easier with aligned partners and collaborators, and have a heck of a lot of fun along the way. The key is to move beyond the business card and three-second handshake, learn how to turn strangers into friends, and then nurture those friendships over time!

Join us for this workshop featuring Lindsay Johnson, aka The Radical Connector to learn how to:

Pick the right networking events and activities for your goals so you don’t waste your precious time or feel out of place

Spot your ideal client across the room and start a feel-good conversation without selling

Feel confident leading a fun conversation that builds instant know, like, trust

Invite potential clients, collaborators, referral partners and leaders to a consent-based sales call

Do the perfect sales call that doesn’t actually feel like a sales call at all

Bonus: Networking Dos & Don’ts tip-sheet to help you make a memorable impression and have a great time.

Networking is the most powerful marketing activity you’ll do as a business owner. Let’s make it your super power!

CQCC members only - Meet-Up: Calgary
2025-12-16 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Denver)
We’re thrilled to announce a brand-new initiative designed to bring our community closer than ever before. For the first time, CQCC is hosting a series of casual, non-programmed regional meetups across Canada!

This is your opportunity to connect with fellow members, forge new relationships, and grow your network in a relaxed, local setting. Forget the formal presentations and structured agendas—these events are all about building authentic connections and supporting the vibrant local businesses that make our communities shine.

Whether you’re an established business owner, a budding entrepreneur, or a corporate leader, these meetups are the perfect way to expand your network and celebrate the power of our diverse community.

After a successful first session in Montréal in October, we’re happy to come to bring the energy to Calgary on Tuesday, December 16th, 2025, 6:00 – 8:00 PM MT.

Location: Gummi Boutique, 205 10 St NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1V5.

Register below.

Registration – CQCC Meet-up: CalgaryPlease enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.First name *Surname *Email *Job title *
is with Organisation

Organisation *Company websiteIndustry *City *Other *What is your membership status with CQCC? *Certified SupplierRainbow RegisteredNational Associate MemberOUT For BusinessCorporate PartnerEcosystem Fund RecipientCommunity Partner / Regional AffiliateCQCC staff / Board memberOtherSelect all that applyIs your SME owned and managed by an equity-deserving group that has been served? *2SLGBTQI+WomenVisible minoritiesIndigenous PersonsYouthPersons with disabilitiesN/ASelect all that applyAre you from a rural, remote, or northern community? *YesNoAre you a 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneur? *YesNoIf you have any accessibility requests, please mention belowWe will try out best to accommodate your needs.Submit

Finance Unlocked: Financial Literacy 101 with Parisa Pajooh
2026-01-22 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
Join us for a dynamic and interactive workshop designed specifically for queer businesses, creatives, and professionals!

In this session, you’ll discover how to:

Confidently manage your personal and business finances

Understand your money mindset and overcome barriers

Master the basics of saving, investing, and budgeting

Keep your creative business’s cash flow in check

This workshop lays the foundation for the full series; including Workshop 2 (F.I.R.E.: Financial Independence & Early Retirement) and Workshop 3 (Estate Planning & Risk Management). To get the most out of the full series, it’s highly recommended to start here and build your financial knowledge step by step.

Come curious, leave empowered!

Who should attend: Queer professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives at any stage who want practical, actionable insights to take charge of their finances.

Webinar Wednesday: Smart RRSP Moves Before the Deadline: Maximize Your Tax Savings
2026-01-28 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
The RRSP deadline is approaching — are you making the most of your opportunity to reduce taxes and grow your retirement savings?In this practical session, we’ll break down how RRSPs work, who benefits most, and smart strategies you can still use before March 1st. Whether you’re new to investing or simply want to avoid costly mistakes, this webinar will give you clear guidance to stay on track with your long-term goals.

Key Takeaways

Attendees will learn:

Common mistakes to avoid before the deadline

What the RRSP deadline really means

When to choose RRSP vs. TFSA (and when to use both together)

How RRSP contributions reduce taxes and increase refunds

RRSP strategies specifically for self-employed individuals and business owners, including how to smooth income and reduce tax bills

Quick and effective late-season contribution options: cash, transfers, and RRSP loans

How RRSPs coordinate with employer pension plans

Our Team

Parisa Pajooh (they/them)

Founder

Diverse Wealth

Parisa Pajooh (they/them)

Founder

Diverse Wealth

Parisa is the founder of Diverse Wealth, a queer financial advisor and educator specializing in inclusive and accessible financial and investment planning.
As a CCQC-Certified Supplier, Parisa is committed to serving the queer community and allies with trust and personalized planning that supports each person’s unique financial journey.

2026 EY/CQCC Pitch Competition
2026-02-19 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Toronto)
Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with EY, invites CQCC’s certified suppliers and OUT for Business entrepreneurs to participate in the 2026 Virtual EY Pitch Series. This series comprises three Pitch Sessions throughout the year, offering selected participants the opportunity to present their pitches to a panel of judges within a 10-minute timeframe. Judges will provide constructive feedback and tips to help entrepreneurs enhance their selling techniques to corporate buyers.

The pitch competition is only for CQCC’s certified suppliers and OUT for Business Entrepreneurs. For a more robust understanding of what the EY Pitch Competition will entail, join us for an Info Session on February 19th, 1:00 – 2:00 PM ET . This is a great opportunity to gain knowledge about the application process and what to expect at this year’s competition. This webinar will go over details of the pitch competition, you will get to meet past participants and will end with a Q&A.

Format of the 2026 EY Virtual Pitch Series:

Each round will feature at least three participants.

The order of presenters will be randomly selected before the presentations.

Presentations are limited to two individuals from each participating company.

Each participant will deliver a ten-minute presentation focusing on their service and value proposition.

A two-minute warning will be given, and presentations must conclude after ten minutes.

Presenters must use visual presentations. (PowerPoint, slides, Canva, Figma, etc.)

Prizes:Winners of each round will be paired with mentors to prepare for the Finale in May.

Best Pitch: Full scholarship to the Supplier Diversity Professional Excellence, Tuck Executive Education at Dartmouth (approximate value: $4,000USD).

Runner Up: To be announced.

Third Place: To be announced.

Dates (Subject to change):

MARCH 5 | 1-3 PM ET

APRIL 2 | 1-3 PM ET

MAY 7 | 1-3 PM ET

FINALE in June. Dates to be announced.

You will receive a calendar invite for your slot upon registration if you get in! Participants are selected on first come, first served basis.

Mentorship:After the last pitch session on May 7th, each finalist will be paired with a mentor from EY, who will receive up to four hours of one-to-one mentoring to perfect their pitch.

Judging:EY will secure a minimum of 5 judges for each session and the Finale. Candidates will be assessed on a scale of 1-5 for the following criteria:

Presentation materials

Verbal communications

Non-verbal communications

Use of time

Communication of core service(s)

Value proposition

EY is committed to maintaining a diverse supplier base and building relationships with suppliers that reflect the market, clients and communities they serve. EY seeks to actively identify, develop, and do business with diverse suppliers as an integral component of its procurement activities. Their Inclusive and Sustainable Procurement team drives the supplier diversity initiative at EY to promote supplier inclusion.

Register below.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.First name *Surname *Pronouns *Email *City *
Email have? best

Job Title/Position *Organization/Company Name *Industry *What CQCC membership do you have? *Certified SupplierOUT For BusinessWhy are you interested in the 2025 EY Pitch Competition? *What do you hope to gain from this experience? *If successful, kindly indicate which round you have a preference for (we will do our best to allocate your preferred date to you). *March 5th, 1-3 PM ETApril 2nd, 1-3 PM ETMay 7th, 1-3 PM ETYou can select more than one option by clicking the Shift button simultaneously.Submit

CQCC Connect Halifax
2026-02-23 09:30 - 14:00 (America/Toronto)
Join us in Halifax for CQCC Connect, a unique event that brings together LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, and allies in a vibrant, inclusive environment. This is your chance to discover new business opportunities, establish valuable connections, and participate in thought-provoking discussions that pave the way for long-term success.

What to Expect

This event combines insightful breakout, impactful networking, and personalized opportunities designed to support the growth of LGBTQ+ businesses and promote supplier diversity.

Breakout Sessions – Dive into engaging and thought-provoking breakout sessions tailored to your interests, where you’ll explore key topics, exchange ideas, and connect with like-minded professionals.

Matchmaking Sessions – A tailored opportunity for CQCC-certified suppliers and corporate partners ONLY to engage in focused, strategic meetings that can unlock new collaborations and business ventures.

Why Attend?

Whether you’re an established business owner, a corporate leader seeking to diversify your supplier base, or an ally eager to support the LGBTQ+ community, CQCC Connect in Halifax offers a platform to connect, collaborate, and grow.

Be part of an event that will inspire, empower, and strengthen the LGBTQ+ business community in Nova Scotia and beyond.

Register below and secure your spot for this transformative experience!

Program

Fireside Chat: Igniting the Queer Atlantic Business Hub

Join Roseline Olesambu and Corrie Melanson from Sea Change CoLab Inc. for a fireside chat on the creation of the Queer Atlantic Business Hub. They’ll share key insights from the Atlantic-wide survey and interviews with 2SLGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs, give a first look at what’s ahead for the Hub’s first year, and invite participants to get involved as founding members.Come learn how this new initiative will connect, support, and amplify queer businesses across Atlantic Canada — and find out what’s coming next at the Hub’s official launch event in Moncton.

Location: Glitter Bean Cafe Co-op, 5896 Spring Garden Rd, Halifax, NS B3H 0A6.

Our Team

Roseline Olesambu (she/her)

Sea Change CoLab Inc

Corrie Melanson (she/they)

Sea Change CoLab Inc

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. – Step 1 of 3First Name *Last Name *Pronoun(s) *They/ThemShe/HerHe/HimShe/TheyHe/TheyHe/She/TheyOtherEmail *PhoneAre you or your business one of the following? *CQCC Certified SupplierCQCC Corporate MemberCQCC Affiliate MemberRepresentative from an ecosystem or affiliate organization2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneur, but not a CQCC memberMedia representativeGovernment representativeCQCC Program Participant (Mentorship, Advisor Access, or Mental Health)I’m not a 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneur, but interested in attendingCQCC Staff/SpeakerJob Title *NextCompany/Business Name *Industry *City *Is your SME owned and managed by an equity-deserving group that has been served? *2SLGBTQI+WomenVisible minoritiesIndigenous personsYouthPersons with disabilitiesNot applicableFeel free to select more than one. Simply press ‘Shift’ and the options.Are you from a rural, remote, or northern community? *YesNoAre you a 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneur? *YesNoDietary restrictions, if any *VegetarianGluten-freeDairy-freeLactose intoleranceHalalKosherNoneNextAccessibility needs, if any *Wheelchair AccessibilitySign Language InterpretationNoneOther
Title needs, owned

By 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/Submit

Virtual One-on-One Matchmaking (Members Only)
2026-02-24 12:00 - 18:00 (America/Toronto)
CQCC’s One-on-One Virtual Matchmaking is a semi-annual event that brings together Certified 2SLGBTQI+Q Business Enterprises and CQCC corporate members. During each session, 2SLGBTQI+BEs have the opportunity to present their business to our Corporate Members, providing a perfect opportunity for them to learn about each unique 2SLGBTQI+BE in a concentrated environment. The matchmaking event is held in a completely virtual setting, allowing attendees to book meeting times throughout the afternoon that fit best with personal scheduling.

We would like to extend a Corporate/Supplier-only invitation for you to join us at our upcoming Virtual Matchmaking event on February 24th from 12 pm to 6 pm ET.

We will begin by hosting a Welcome Webinar from 12 pm to 12:30 pm EDT. This workshop is sponsored by our friends at Realize. Throughout the afternoon, matchmakers can schedule 15 or 30 minutes one-on-one meetings. As an added benefit, Certified Suppliers can schedule meetings with Corporate Members in attendance and fellow diverse suppliers.CQCC has engaged with mybusinessmatches.com for this event to create a technologically and socially-elevated matchmaking experience for corporate members and certified suppliers.

This event is open to only CQCC’s certified suppliers and corporate partners.

Webinar Wednesday: Navigating the Maze of Government Procurement: a Vendor's Perspective
2026-02-25 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
A practical roadmap to find, qualify, and win public-sector contracts—focused on fast setup, compliant bidding, and navigating the maze that is public procurement. Joe Noss is a proud member of CQCC and the CEO of Publicus, a startup that helps vendors find and win contracts without the headache. Publicus is also a vendor to the Federal Government, providing analytics on procurement.

Our Team

Joe Noss (he/him)

CEO and Founder

Publicus

Webinar Wednesday: How to over-prepare for your pitch meeting with a big buyer
2026-03-03 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto)
This presentation provides a strategic roadmap for using market intelligence to transform initial client meetings into high-value contracts. Led by Aaron Cruikshank, President of CTRS and CQCC certified supplier, the session draws on over 20 years of experience to demonstrate how deep preparation can “supercharge” your sales process.

Session Overview

Aaron shares the exact techniques he used to generate dozens of solid leads and secure multi-million dollar bidding opportunities. Attendees will learn how to move beyond basic introductions by creating comprehensive pre-meeting briefs that include:

Dossier Building: Developing deep-dive profiles featuring SWOT and PESTLE analyses to prove you are the most prepared person in the room.

Targeted Reconnaissance: Learning how to gather facts on the political climate, economic trends, and competitive intelligence.

The “Hook”: Identifying timely, actionable reasons why a target company needs your specific services.

Our Team

Aaron Cruikshank (he/him)

President

CTRS Market Intelligence Agency

Aaron Cruikshank (he/him)

President

CTRS Market Intelligence Agency

With over 25 years of research experience spanning diverse sectors, including the private sector, government, and nonprofits, Aaron Cruikshank is one of North America’s leading Marketing Intelligence experts. He delivers punchy messages with wit and humour.
While he has worked with a stellar lineup of over 750 clients, ranging from multinationals to startups, Aaron’s heart beats for more than just business success. He’s a true champion of the community, dedicating countless hours to pro bono work that uplifts and empowers those in need.
Don’t be fooled by his charm and lightheartedness. Aaron is weaponized intelligence. With expertise in market intelligence, competitive intelligence, qualitative market research, market validation, public policy research and strategy, he’s a secret weapon organizations turn to when they need to make strategic decisions that will drive the business over the next decade.
Currently the President of CTRS Market Intelligence Agency, Aaron is also an emerging university instructor, keynote speaker and author.

DEFY 2026
2026-03-11 08:00 - 2026-03-12 17:00 (America/Toronto)
SDAC’s biggest event is back!

Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce (CQCC) and Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council (CAMSC), founders of Supplier Diversity Alliance Canada (SDAC), are teaming up with WEConnect International this March for Canada’s Supplier Inclusion Conference—where ideas spark, partnerships thrive, and growth happens.

We’re proud to bring you the second biennial DEFY Conference, hosted at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre on March 11-12, 2026.

Early Bird pricing is ON! Save over 15% when you register by January 16, 2026.

Register

WHY ATTEND?

Entrepreneurs can connect with procurement professionals through matchmaking sessions, gain actionable insights from industry leaders, and build relationships that drive business forward.

Corporations can discover new partnerships, strengthen their commitment to inclusive supply chains, and learn best practices that make a real impact.

Meet members of other supplier councils. DEFY replaces our individual conferences in 2026, so members are highly encourage to attend and participate in this dynamic marketplace of ideas and opportunities.

Discounted ticket rates are available for CQCC-Certified Suppliers and FAM members. To take advantage:

If you are a Supplier, contact vanessa.ntinu@queerchamber.ca.

If you are part of the FAM, contact shilik.hamad@queerchamber.ca.

Who is DEFY for?

Diverse entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, government, and ecosystem partners from across several certifying bodies. Learn more about CAMSC and WEConnect International.

DEFY is for those interested in developing long-lasting relationships between main actors in the Canadian supply chain.

throwback: relive defy 2024

DEFY 2024 (June 12-14, 2024) was SDAC’s first time coming together to create an event like this – meant to bring folks to the table – backed by the core belief that connecting all together gives us more power.

It was truly a week to be remembered! We came together as a community to empower each other and #ForgeTheFuture together.

Read all about SDAC’s first-ever DEFY conference here.
