Celebrating international successes: CGLCC Trade Mission recap, with gratitude

At Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC), we celebrate and value the power of inclusivity and collaboration. Our recent Trade Mission to Denver, USA, from August 15th to 18th, 2023, highlighted these same values and brought about remarkable achievements for both the delegates and organization.

Networking that makes a difference

One of the cornerstones of CGLCC’s Global Trade Missions are to create opportunities to network and forge connections. In Denver, our Canadian delegates had the chance to participate in an impressive average of 10-20 business- to-business meetings each.While the aim of many of these meetings is to create new, collaborative business opportunities, each meeting was instrumental in building relationships that can drive profound change in the business world for all diverse suppliers. When certified suppliers and corporates connect: it gets easier for all of us to do the same.

Satisfaction through the roof

The goal of every CGLCC Global Trade mission is to ensure that delegates have a valuable experience; The feedback received from this mission exceeded all expectations! With a satisfaction rating of 3.83 out of 4, delegates clearly felt that our mission was a resounding success. The outstanding success of missions like these is the foundation of future opportunities – CGLCC’s next Global Trade Mission will be in early 2024.
Canadian delegates also received the benefit of exclusive programming opportunities, including: a preliminary Trade 101 training supported by Export Development Canada, facilitated by FITT Forum for International Trade Training; a Welcome Breakfast and Market Briefing at the Canadian Consulate in Denver, and a post mission training from one of CGLCC’s Certified Suppliers and mission delegate, Aaron Cruikshank from CTRS.

Corporate Partners Breakfast: Supported by Kelloggs – with a heartfelt thank you

We’d like to extend our deepest gratitude to the Corporate Partners who joined CGLCC for a special breakfast during the mission. Your support and commitment to diversity and inclusion are driving positive change in the business landscape. Together, we are creating an environment where 2SLGBTQI+ businesses can not just survive, but truly thrive. Your partnership is appreciated and pivotal to each mission’s success. Denver’s breakfast program included a special message from Canada’s Minister of Small Business, the honourable Rechie Valdez. Each of the Canadian Suppliers also had an opportunity to pitch their business to those in attendance. To find out more about the Canadian Suppliers and mission delegates, please see the Delegate Directory.

Additional photos from the Denver mission are available!

NGLCC Global Affiliate Chamber of the Year Award

In Denver, CGLCC was recognized as the Global Affiliate Chamber of the Year by the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC). This prestigious award celebrates the organization’s unwavering commitment to economic inclusion and empowerment. Since its founding in 2003, the CGLCC has been fostering an ecosystem where Canadian 2SLGBTQI+ businesses can flourish. This award validates the incredible journey CGLCC has undertaken over the two decades of its commitment to growing our 2SLGBTQI+ business community, establishing innovative programs, and extending its global reach.

The NGLCC Global Affiliate Chamber of the Year Award not only acknowledges the organization’s past achievements, but provides the fuel to fire up an even more inclusive and diverse future. The CGLCC is driven by the vision of a more inclusive and prosperous world for all, where 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs have equal opportunities to succeed.

A Bright Future Ahead…

The successes of our most recent Trade Mission to Denver, and the recognition by NGLCC, are testaments to the dedication and hard work of CGLCC’s members, partners, and supporters. As CGLCC celebrates these exceptional achievements, including the 20th Anniversary of its founding this year, we continue to build a future where inclusivity, economic empowerment, and advocacy are at the forefront of what it means to do business as a Canadian.

We would like to also thank you for being a part of our journey. Together, we are creating a more inclusive and prosperous world for everyone.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates and initiatives from CGLCC. If you would like to get involved in our next trade mission, it will be taking place in 2024 Q1. Now is the time to explore export readiness training to ensure you can make the most of upcoming international opportunities. Visit our Global Program webpage and/or email Cass to find out more.

Special recognition and thank you to CGLCC Global Sponsor, Export Development Canada (EDC).