Advisor Access Program
A 2SLGBTQI+ Newcomer Entrepreneur Initiative
The Advisor Access program features structured sessions, along with one-on-one networking opportunities with expert advisors. Entrepreneur participants will engage in expert-facilitated discussions on common business challenges, specifically addressing the needs of 2SLGBTQI+ newcomer entrepreneurs. Each session will focus on a specific theme, offering tailored insights and actionable strategies. Session themes include:
- Business Immigration Law
- Business Foundership for Newcomer Entrepreneurs
- Business Planning for Newcomer Entrepreneurs
- Branding for Newcomer Entrepreneurs
- Finance and Accounting
Beyond the sessions, participants will have opportunities to network with other entrepreneurs and integrate into the broader CGLCC ecosystem, fostering lasting connections and building a strong community of support.
This program is designed for entrepreneurs who identify as 2SLGBTQI+, including Two-Spirit entrepreneurs. While Indigenous peoples are the original inhabitants of Turtle Island (Canada), we welcome participants from across North America who identify as Two-Spirit and are new to entrepreneurship in Canada. Please note that Two-Spirit individuals participating in this program must be new to Canada and new to entrepreneurship.
Applications for Entrepreneur Participants and Advisor Experts are now open!

Program Structure
- This program will consist of a series of 5 events that will run from May to December. Each session will cover specific session themes. Each event will be divided into two separate sessions:
- A 1-hour group webinar with a subject matter expert with Q&A or discussion on one day.
- A 2.5-hour speed advising session with various advisors on a separate day.
- Must be Newcomer (10 years and less) to Canada.
- Must have an open work permit with the option to earn self-employment income or be a permanent resident.
- Self-identify (even if verbally) as being part of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
- Must have a business idea and must be committed to the idea.
- Participants do not need to be full-time entrepreneurs.
- No minimum business experience requirements. Participants can be anywhere in their entrepreneurial journey – from pre-business registration to growth-stage.
- No age limit! Folks start businesses at all ages, and we now can help them. Entrepreneurs of any age 19+ can participate.
- No industry requirements. Participants can work in any industry.
*This is a paid opportunity. CGLCC will offer a per diem to experts for their participation in the sessions.
- Subject matter expertise in any of the following session themes: accounting, business immigration law, branding, business strategy, finance, or leadership.
- Previous experience working with newcomer communities is an asset.
- Experience with underrepresented communities is required.
- Subject matter expertise in relevant session themes.
- Strong communication skills for presenting and engaging with diverse audiences.
- Knowledge of current trends and best practices within the relevant field or topic.
- Experience in creating inclusive spaces that encourage participation from all attendees.
- Commitment to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of the work.
- Individuals who have businesses or work in businesses that are Rainbow Registered are encouraged to participate.
- Individuals, whether independent or part of an organization, are invited to participate.
- Entrepreneur: anyone who earns income from self-employment
- Entrepreneurs located in rural and non-city centre are encouraged to apply
- Transgender people, racialized people, are especially encouraged to apply.
- CGLCC membership is not required. Participants (especially entrepreneurs) do not need to be CGLCC members to participate.
Time Requirement & Accountability
- Event Dates:
- This program will run from May to December, with sessions taking place in May, July, October, and November. Networking opportunities will occur throughout the duration of the program.
- Event Format:
- The sessions will be split into two parts: a group webinar/workshop session, followed by a Q&A or cohort group discussion, and a second part featuring one-on-one advising sessions with subject matter experts.
- Accountability:
- Participant entrepreneurs must commit to attending all five events in their entirety.
- Attendance includes both the 1-hour webinar and the 2.5-hour speed advising sessions for each event.
- Advisor experts must commit to 2.5 hours for the speed advising sessions they will support.
- Participant entrepreneurs must commit to attending all five events in their entirety.
Application Guideline
For Entrepreneur Participants: Entrepreneur participants are welcome to apply through the application form below or submit a video application. Applicants submitting a video application should answer the following questions:
- Introduce yourself (name, pronouns, location) and describe your business, including its stage, successes, and challenges.
- What motivates you to apply, and what do you hope to achieve from the Advisor Access Program?
- How do you identify within the 2SLGBTQI+ community, and how long have you lived in Canada?
- Why do you think the Advisor Access Program will be beneficial for your business at this stage?
Video applications should be a maximum of 3 minutes.
Please submit video applications to Idara.effiom@cglcc.ca.
Get Involved
Register for Advisor Access Program Here
Applications are now open! Apply as an Entrepreneur Participant or Advisor Expert below:
For Entrepreneur Participants:
For Advisor Experts:
Contact Us
For any questions, please contact:
- Idara Effiom – Manager, Membership Programs
- Eli Kriv – Coordinator, Membership Programs