Two entrepreneurs recognized for excellence in pitching and community impact 

The Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce (CQCC), in partnership with EY, is proud to announce the recipients of this year’s EY / CQCC Business Pitch Competition awards, recognizing exceptional entrepreneurs for their innovation, leadership and commitment to creating meaningful impact through their businesses. 

Perfect Pitch Excellence Award 

Dr. Alice Curitz, Our Landing Place, has been named the recipient of the Perfect Pitch Excellence Award. This award recognizes the entrepreneur who delivered the most compelling, clear and persuasive pitch, demonstrating creativity, passion and professionalism within a limited presentation timeframe. 

About the pitch competition, Alice had this to say: “What an incredible experience! I felt so inspired by the other participants, and the mentorship and support I received from the EY team was unrivalled. The EY Pitch Competition is an opportunity to grow skills in a supportive and values-driven environment, and I feel so fortunate to have been a part of the process. If you’re considering participating in an upcoming round, I highly recommend taking the leap!” 

Dr. Curitz stood out for her ability to effectively communicate both the vision behind her business and her personal journey as an entrepreneur and therapist. Her presentation combined authenticity, purpose and strategic storytelling, setting a high standard for excellence throughout the competition. 

Social Impact Leadership Award 

Makaylah Rogers, Frankie D’s, has been awarded the Social Impact Leadership Award, recognizing a business that demonstrates a strong commitment to breaking down barriers to connection, inclusion and belonging. 

They shared: “the EY/CQCC competition gave me the space and the support to articulate not just what Frankie D’s does, but why it matters. I’m so grateful for the mentorship, the feedback, and the community of founders I got to be part of.”

Through initiatives focused on fostering inclusive workplaces and strengthening community connections, Frankie D’s has created meaningful social impact. Under Rogers’ leadership, the social enterprise reinvests profits into mental health support, peer support groups and community care programming, extending its reach and impact well beyond the workplace. 

Celebrating Entrepreneurial Excellence 

The CQCC and EY extend their congratulations not only to this year’s award recipients but to all entrepreneurs who participated in the competition. Their passion, resilience and dedication to growing impactful businesses reflect the strength and diversity of Canada’s entrepreneurial community. 

The success of this year’s competition was made possible through the commitment of EY judges and mentors, whose expertise, encouragement and allyship helped support participants throughout the experience. 

The CQCC also extends its appreciation to the many individuals who contributed to the program’s success, including the CQCC team and its partners, whose collaboration helped create a valuable platform for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs to showcase their businesses and connect with mentors and industry leaders.