Ready to see some fierce change in Canada’s entrepreneurial landscape? Well, grab your rainbow flag and buckle up, because Canada just launched its first-ever 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program—and honey, it’s fabulous! This new initiative isn’t just a drop in the bucket; it’s a game-changer for queer business owners who are ready to slay the game but have been bogged down by systemic barriers. We’re talking about $8 million in funding to support 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs and non-profits in building businesses that reflect their true selves. It’s loud, it’s proud, and it’s designed to make sure our community thrives in the business world.

This is way more than just funding; it’s a boost to our ecosystem. We’re finally seeing the recognition that queer entrepreneurs deserve, alongside tailored support to help them overcome the unique challenges they face. Over 100,000 2SLGBTQI+-owned businesses in Canada generate more than $22 billion in economic activity and employ over 435,000 people. With this new program, that number is about to skyrocket. If you’re a queer entrepreneur looking to start, grow, or simply thrive in business, darling, this program is for you!

“Who you are and whom you love shouldn’t hurt your business; in fact, it should be a part of your success”, said The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business. “40% of 2SLGBTQ+ entrepreneurs face difficulties accessing funding, a third have had to hide who they are as a person, and a quarter of them have lost business opportunities- all because of their identity. Our government is proudly stepping up to create Canada’s first 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program, it is also the first of its kind in the world. This announcement is adding 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs to our government’s programming of inclusive entrepreneurship support that already includes the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy, the Black Entrepreneurship Program, investments in Futurpreneur, and support for Indigenous entrepreneurs.”

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into what the 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program means for our community. You’ll learn about the groundbreaking organizations that are already set to deliver these resources across Canada, and how you can benefit from workshops, coaching, trade missions, and more. If you’re looking for a way to turn your business dreams into reality, keep reading—you’re in for a treat!

The Game-Changing Ecosystem Fund

The real magic behind this initiative lies in its Ecosystem Fund, which is all about empowering queer entrepreneurs to rise to the top. The Ecosystem Fund has already selected 17 non-profit organizations to deliver programs that offer tools and resources to 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs. These programs will include everything from one-on-one coaching to educational workshops on diversity and inclusion, helping queer businesses not just survive, but thrive.

Among the powerhouse recipients are groups like 2 Spirits in Motion Society, Banff Pride Society, and QueerTech. They’re rolling out initiatives to foster connections between queer entrepreneurs, offering trade missions to help businesses break into new markets, and raising awareness about the challenges faced by 2SLGBTQI+ businesses. If you’re looking to connect with other queer entrepreneurs or need help navigating the rough waters of running a business, these organizations have got your back.

The goal? To cultivate a fierce, cohesive network of 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs and ecosystem organizations. This means that no matter where you’re located in Canada, whether you’re in bustling Toronto or the quiet outskirts of Pictou County, there are resources and a supportive network to help your business flourish.

The Knowledge Hub: Data Meets Diversity

But wait—there’s more! Alongside the Ecosystem Fund, the federal government has introduced the Knowledge Hub. What’s that, you ask? Think of it as a glittering brain trust for queer entrepreneurship. Operated by the Fyrefly Institute for Gender and Sexual Diversity in partnership with the eHUB Entrepreneurship Centre at the University of Alberta, the Knowledge Hub is designed to conduct vital research to better understand the 2SLGBTQI+ business landscape.

This is a HUGE step toward solving the invisible barriers that queer entrepreneurs face. By collecting data on the challenges we encounter, the Knowledge Hub will help develop best practices that cater specifically to the 2SLGBTQI+ community. This is how you fix a system that wasn’t built with you in mind. Plus, the Hub is getting $3 million to make this happen, so we’re talking about some serious commitment to uplifting queer entrepreneurs.

Who’s In The Spotlight?

So, who exactly is getting the funding, and how does this affect you? Here are some of the key players involved in making this dream a reality:

• 2 Spirits in Motion Society: Serving Two-Spirit entrepreneurs on a national level.
• Access Alliance Multicultural Health and Community Services (Ontario): Partnering with UPlift Black to support queer entrepreneurs of color.
• Alberta LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce (Alberta): Helping connect businesses with larger markets.
• Chroma NB (New Brunswick): In partnership with Envision Saint John, they’re making big waves for queer entrepreneurs in smaller communities.

These are just a few of the incredible organizations making real changes on the ground. The 17 selected groups will share over $5 million in funding to support workshops, coaching, and networking events that will help you build the skills to crush it in business. And this is only the beginning; more organizations will be announced in the coming months to ensure equitable support across Canada. So if your province wasn’t mentioned yet, stay tuned—help is on the way!

What This Means For You

Okay, let’s get real for a second—running a business is hard. But for 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs, the barriers are even higher. Whether it’s lack of access to capital, discrimination, or not knowing where to find mentors who understand your unique challenges, it can be tough. This new Entrepreneurship Program levels the playing field, ensuring that we all have a shot at success.

One exciting aspect is the Rainbow Registered certification, which these organizations will help businesses achieve. This certification makes it easier for queer-owned businesses to stand out in the marketplace and signals that you’re a part of the 2SLGBTQI+ community. With workshops, mentorships, and even trade missions designed to help you grow, this program gives you the tools to not just compete, but to dominate your field.

And with organizations like the Canadian Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC) leading the charge, you can bet that the 2SLGBTQI+ community is well-represented at every level. The CGLCC’s mission is to drive social change through economic empowerment. They’re not just giving lip service here—they’re making tangible, lasting impacts on queer entrepreneurs across Canada.

Your Queer Biz Future

Are you ready to build that empire? Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, the 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program is a fantastic resource that will help you navigate the business world with confidence. With the Ecosystem Fund and Knowledge Hub providing the groundwork, you have access to a network of support, expert advice, and opportunities to take your business to the next level. And let’s not forget the Rainbow Registered certification that can help your brand sparkle even more!

This is your time. Our community is full of innovators, creators, and game-changers, and this program is giving us the runway to soar. So what are you waiting for? Get involved, find out what resources are available to you, and get ready to build the queer-owned business of your dreams!

Join The Conversation

Have you got big dreams for your business? Or maybe you’ve already started, and you’re looking for tips to take it to the next level? Drop a comment below and share your experience—whether you’re a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes in, we’d love to hear your thoughts!