Manitoba Launches Urgent Support Program for LGBTTQ+ Entrepreneurs

BREAKING: The Manitoba LGBT* Chamber of Commerce has just announced the launch of its groundbreaking program, Emerge, aimed at empowering LGBTTQ+ entrepreneurs in Manitoba. Applications are now open for this essential initiative, which is set to kick off on September 24, 2023.

This six-month program is a crucial lifeline for queer entrepreneurs, providing them with vital business skills, mentorship, and the opportunity to network with peers facing similar challenges. Executive Director Jenny Steinke-Magnus emphasized the unique hurdles that LGBTTQ+ business owners encounter, stating, “There’s really some unique challenges that queer entrepreneurs face, so we wanted to address those challenges with this tailor-made program.”

The Emerge program is specifically designed to address the alarming statistics from Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC), which reveal that one in four LGBTTQ+ entrepreneurs have lost business opportunities due to their identity. Furthermore, two in five struggle to secure financing, while one in three lack access to mentorship. These facts underscore the urgent need for such a program.

Participants in Emerge will benefit from workshops, group discussions, and individualized mentoring sessions that aim to boost their confidence and entrepreneurial knowledge. “We are intentionally creating a supportive network of mentors and colleagues for them,” Steinke-Magnus added, highlighting the community aspect of the program.

Although based in Winnipeg, the program is inclusive of rural Manitoba, offering virtual check-ins and livestream workshops. Currently, ten participants have already applied, with hopes of reaching a total of 20 participants and 15-20 mentors.

The chamber is funding Emerge with a portion of the $300,000 grant received from the federal Department of Small Business, aimed at bolstering 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurship. The launch event will take place in partnership with Creative Manitoba, featuring special guest Albert McLeod, a noted knowledge keeper and consultant.

The program aims not only to educate but also to foster a sense of community and empowerment among Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ individuals pursuing entrepreneurship. Arlea Ashcroft, Indigenous Programs Manager at Creative Manitoba, remarked on the collaborative effort, stating, “By collaborating, we hope to create a greater social and experiential change for entrepreneurs than either of us could do alone.”

Applications for participants and mentors will remain open until September 5, 2023. The impact of this initiative is poised to be significant, as there are over 100,000 LGBTTQ+ owned businesses across Canada, contributing more than $22 billion to the economy.

This launch marks a vital step in supporting a community that continues to face systemic barriers. The Emerge program stands to not only enhance individual business prospects but also strengthen the overall economic landscape for LGBTTQ+ entrepreneurs in Manitoba.

Stay tuned for more updates on this transformative initiative as it unfolds!