Manitoba Chamber Launches Emerge Program for LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurs

A new initiative has emerged in Manitoba aimed at empowering LGBTTQ+ entrepreneurs. The Manitoba LGBT* Chamber of Commerce is set to launch the Emerge program, designed specifically for queer entrepreneurs. Applications are currently open, with the program scheduled to begin on September 24, 2023.

The Emerge program spans six months and focuses on equipping participants with essential business skills. It also aims to foster a supportive network of mentors and fellow entrepreneurs. According to Jenny Steinke-Magnus, executive director of the chamber, this initiative addresses unique challenges faced by queer entrepreneurs. As she stated, “There’s really some unique challenges that queer entrepreneurs face, so we wanted to address those challenges and offer this tailor-made program for queer entrepreneurs in Manitoba.”

Recent findings from Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce reveal that one in four LGBTTQ+ entrepreneurs has lost business opportunities due to their identity. Additionally, two in five report difficulties in securing financing, while one in three struggle to access mentorship. Steinke-Magnus emphasized that while there has been progress, the intersection of entrepreneurship and queer identity presents additional hurdles.

Participants in the Emerge program will benefit from a variety of resources, including workshops, networking events, and personalized mentoring sessions. The goal is to enhance their confidence and knowledge, ultimately enabling them to start or expand their businesses. “We are intentionally creating a supportive network of mentors and colleagues for them, and we’re hoping they gain a lot from that intentional community,” Steinke-Magnus remarked.

The program is based in Winnipeg, but it is accessible to entrepreneurs from rural areas through virtual check-ins and online workshops. The chamber is seeking to enroll around 20 participants and recruit 15 to 20 mentors. So far, ten applications have been submitted, indicating strong interest in the initiative.

Funding for the Emerge program comes from a portion of a $300,000 grant awarded to the chamber in February by the federal Department of Small Business. This grant is part of the 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program, which aims to support the growth of queer-owned businesses across Canada.

The launch event for Emerge will take place on September 24 and is organized in collaboration with Creative Manitoba. The event will feature special guest Albert McLeod, a knowledge keeper and lead consultant at 2Spirit Consultants. This partnership aims to create a safe space for learning and empowerment for Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ individuals on their entrepreneurial journeys.

Arlea Ashcroft, Indigenous programs manager at Creative Manitoba, noted that both organizations share a commitment to fostering a supportive environment. “By collaborating, we hope to create a greater social and experiential change for entrepreneurs than either of us could do alone,” she stated in an email.

The Manitoba LGBT* Chamber of Commerce is currently accepting applications for both participants and mentors until September 5, 2023. With over 100,000 LGBTTQ+ owned businesses in Canada, which together employ more than 435,000 Canadians and generate over $22 billion in economic activity, the Emerge program represents a significant step towards enhancing support for this vital sector of the economy.