CQCC Launches The FAM to Support Canada’s $22B Queer Business Economy

Canada is home to more than 100,000 queer-owned businesses. Together, they contribute over $22 billion to the economy and employ more than 435,000 people nationwide.

And yet, many 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs still face real barriers when it comes to accessing capital, building strong networks, and scaling sustainably.

This week, the Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce announced the launch of The FAM Program, a national professional network created specifically for queer business owners across Canada.

The program is open to any member of the 2SLGBTQI+ community who owns between 1 percent and 100 percent of their business. It is designed to strengthen queer entrepreneurship through connection, visibility, and practical support.

Members receive access to national networking events, industry-focused workshops, a community hub for collaboration, and spotlight opportunities that introduce queer-owned businesses to new customers and corporate partners.

“The goal of The FAM Program is to increase the visibility of 2SLGBTQI+ businesses and to create a strong community of professionals that may have faced challenges because of their identity,” says Sarah Evalina, Chief Operating Officer at CQCC. “By connecting these queer professionals through The FAM Program, we can strengthen these individual ventures that are driving economic growth in markets across Canada.”

While cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are often viewed as inclusive business environments, gaps still exist. Access to funding, procurement opportunities, and strong referral networks is not evenly distributed. For founders operating in rural or remote communities, those challenges can be even greater.

The FAM aims to close those gaps by building intentional connections and encouraging economic circulation within the community.

Toronto-based marketing and design agency Go Banana! is among those engaging with the initiative.

“The FAM can help us be part of a thriving business community,” says Elaine Kwok of Go Banana!. “That means helping us meet potential clients and partners, providing educational and practical resources, and even lobbying for government support for small businesses.”

Founded in 2003, CQCC represents more than 100,000 2SLGBTQI+-owned businesses across the country. In 2023, the Government of Canada selected the organization to administer the world’s first $25 million 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program.

The FAM Program is currently free to join until March 31, 2026.

Entrepreneurs can learn more or join at queerchamber.ca/FAM.