The Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce has launched a program that aims to support and build community among 2SLGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and business owners.
It’s called the FAM Program and it plans to provide training, networking events and other opportunities.
Upwards of 200 members from across Canada, including places like Vancouver Island, Saint John and Halifax, have signed up for the program, an official with the group said.
Sam Archibald, co-founder and creative director of a small Halifax marketing firm called Shortstop, is one of those who have signed up.
He said it’s a chance to learn from others across the country.
“It can be pretty lonely at times and there’s not … one resource that gives you the guide map to being an entrepreneur or even running a business,” said Archibald.
Another reason Archibald signed up was to try to expand the reach of the business beyond the region it’s based in.
“Halifax isn’t the largest market for our work, and the bigger networks I can build across the country the better,” he said.
The chief operating officer of the Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce says with current global politics, it’s not the easiest time for entrepreneurs in general. But Sarah Evalina says 2SLGBTQ+ people can face additional barriers.
“It can be challenging to find an investor,” said Evalina. “We know that only one per cent of Canadian venture capital goes to … queer entrepreneurs.”
They added that’s despite 2SLGBTQ+ entrepreneurs owning more than 100,000 businesses in Canada and generating billions of dollars in economic activity annually.
It can also be a challenge to find mentors who are representative of their experiences. “That can make it harder to get advice and guidance,” said Evalina.
The FAM Program was created as a response to direct calls for action from the community.
While the chamber of commerce has had programming for businesses that are majority-owned by 2SLGBTQ+ people, there were those that didn’t fit the criteria.
“We continued to hear from folks who wanted to be part of our membership or have more dedicated training and opportunities [for] building community,” said Evalina.
The program is free to access until the end of March. After that, there will be an annual membership fee, which is reduced for the first year for those who sign up during the free period.
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