Ecosystem Fund Profile
The Québec LGBT Chamber of Commerce (CC-LGBT-Q) has been a longstanding resource to the province’s queer community. Opening in 1997, its mission has remained constant: to represent and promote the 2SLGBTQI+ business community of Québec, to support the success of its members, and to advocate for the community among socio-economic and government circles.
The CC-LGBT-Q is a 2025 recipient of the Ecosystem Fund — a grant program partnered by Government of Canada and Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC) as part of the 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program. The Ecosystem Fund aims to break down barriers for 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs by supporting community organizations that enhance sustainability, drive growth, and promote innovation.
“The CC-LGBT-Q provides so many opportunities and resources for 2SLGBTQI+ business owners in Québec, and we’re thrilled we can make a contribution to this project,” said Tyler Demers, CGLCC’s Director of Grants and Program Development. “CGLCC is committed to supporting the community in Québec and we’re excited to work with the Chamber to make it happen.”
CC-LGBT-Q created the Pride of 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurs in Québec project with the $400,000 they received from the Fund. Yves Guérin, who’s directing the program, said various projects will be undertaken to make 2SLGBTQI+ people more prominent in Québec’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
“The goal of this program is to make the 2SLGBTQI+ business community in Québec more visible and offer activities that strengthen the entrepreneurial skills of businesspeople,” said Guérin.
The CC-LGBT-Q will be executing projects such as:
- Updating the website to include a directory and more resources for 2SLGBTQI+ businesses
- Developing a peer mentorship program
- Creating a series of educational opportunities for members, including lunch and learns, entrepreneur skill development sessions, conferences, panel discussions, networking events, and entrepreneurial capacity-building activities
- Hosting a trade mission from another province
- Reviewing the strategic plan and touring across 10 Québec cities, increasing awareness of the chamber and its resources
- Implementing an equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility policy
- Creating a mental health program
“We are very happy to receive funds from this program and look forward to it helping us better serve our clientele from all regions of Québec,” said Guérin.
To stay up to date on the Pride of 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurs in Québec projects, visit the CC-LGBT-Q website and social media pages.
