Queer Business Networks Every Bow Valley Entrepreneur Should Know
Being an entrepreneur in Banff, Canmore, or Lake Louise is already a unique journey. For 2SLGBTQIA+ business owners, that journey can come with additional challenges and opportunities. One of the most powerful things you can do for your business is to connect with queer business networks that understand your lived experience and are working to build a more inclusive economy.
From mentorship and funding to supplier certifications and national visibility, here are four organizations every 2SLGBTQIA+ entrepreneur in the Bow Valley should explore.
1. Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC)
🔗 cglcc.ca
CGLCC is Canada’s national chamber of commerce dedicated to queer businesses. They offer programs that help 2SLGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs grow, get certified as diverse suppliers, and access corporate and government procurement opportunities.
Key benefits:
Supplier Diversity Certification (recognized by major corporations)
Trade missions and export development
Access to funding and business mentorship
National and international networking opportunities
If you're looking to scale or expand your reach outside the Bow Valley, CGLCC is a great place to start.
2. Alberta 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce
Based right here in Alberta, this provincial chamber advocates for queer-owned and operated businesses across the province. They offer resources tailored to local entrepreneurs, host regional events, and partner with business communities to drive inclusion in the workplace.
Why it matters:
This chamber amplifies the voice of queer businesses in Alberta's economy and provides targeted support for business development within the province’s unique political and economic landscape.
3. Pride In Business
Pride in Business is a Calgary-based non-profit that creates opportunities for queer professionals and entrepreneurs to connect, learn, and collaborate. While it’s based in Calgary, the events, mentorship, and professional development opportunities are open to folks across the province.
What to look for:
Networking events and mixers
Professional speaker series
Queer business showcases
Many Bow Valley business owners attend Pride in Business events to grow their networks and connect with customers and collaborators in Calgary and beyond.
4. Pride at Work Canada
While Pride at Work Canada focuses more on workplace inclusion and corporate allyship, their programs are valuable for entrepreneurs too, especially if you're looking to grow your team, promote inclusive hiring, or develop internal policies that reflect your values.
Ideal for:
Employers creating inclusive hiring practices
Businesses seeking DEI tools and workshops
Connecting with larger inclusive employers
Why These Networks Matter
Queer business networks give you more than visibility, they give you community, opportunity, and credibility. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, being part of these networks can:
Open doors to contracts and funding
Connect you with mentors and peers who understand your journey
Amplify your voice in broader business ecosystems
And most importantly, they remind you that you are not alone.
Stay Connected Locally
The Bow Valley Pride Network works closely with these organizations and can help connect you to the right programs or contacts. We also offer the SMARTstart program, mentorship, and training for local queer and inclusive entrepreneurs.
Learn more at pridenetwork.ca/smartstart
Follow us for updates: linkedin.com/company/banff-pride
