This can vary, but we would estimate between the mentor-mentee meetups, group check-ins, workshops, and other events, participants will commit approximately 20-30 hours over the course of the six months if they attend all sessions and meetings. This number of course will vary based on how often participants choose to meet with their mentors and other factors.

We encourage participants to commit to attending as many program components as possible in order to gain the most out of the experience, but we understand that life happens. Video recordings of the sessions will be available for registered participants who are unable to attend certain sessions. Individuals who would prefer to access the sessions only may do so by registering for individual sessions.

The first cohort will run from mid-September 2025 to mid-March 2026 and will be based in Winnipeg, but will include a virtual option well. Regular Mentor-Mentee Meetups may be done in-person or by video, phone, and/or email. Participants will have access to workshops via livestream and/or videorecording following the event. Group Check-ins will take place over video call. Only the launch and wrap-up events will be done in-person, however we are working on being able to offer a virtual option to attend as well.

Mentors will be matched with Mentees (program participants) based on matching requests from both parties, conversations with applicants, and the needs expressed in the applications. Effective matching of Mentors and Mentees can be challenging. It must be recognized that with limited personal knowledge of the applicants, it may be unlikely to achieve “perfect” mentorship relationships. It is hoped, however, that the matching process will avoid mismatches and allow participants to succeed in achieving the mutually agreed goals that lead to a sense of satisfaction.

We do our best to match Mentors to Mentees, however we understand that some pairings may not work out for various reasons. If after two meetings, the match proves unsustainable for any reason, there is a “no faults” opt-out. After that, efforts will be made to find a more suitable match.

There is no formal agreement to sign to be accepted into the program, however for the Mentor-Mentee component, both parties will enter into a Mentoring Agreement that will outline the nature and terms of the program Meetups, and will sign forms regarding confidentiality and release of liability.

We take care in the matching process to avoid potential competitors. Once matched, the parties will complete a confidentiality agreement.

Bien que tous les aspects du programme se déroulent en anglais, il pourrait être possible de proposer des rencontres mentor-mentoré en français si nous parvenons à recruter des mentors bilingues. Nous encourageons les francophones à s’identifier sur le formulaire de candidature afin de faciliter ce processus.

Although the program will be offered in English, there may be an option for the Mentor-Mentee Meetups to be conducted in French if we are able to recruit Mentors who are bilingual. We encourage Francophones to self-identify on the application form to better facilitate this process.

Thanks to funding from Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce and the Government of Canada, the Chamber is able to offer the program FREE of charge for all participants.

At this time, we require that all program participants be at least 18 years of age or older.

Yes! We are looking for mentors from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. Being a mentor isn’t about having all the answers or being an expert in every area—it’s about sharing your experiences, offering guidance, and helping others learn from your journey. As a new entrepreneur, you have a unique perspective that can be incredibly valuable to others who are just starting out or facing similar challenges. Plus, mentoring is a two-way street—you can learn from your mentee as much as they can learn from you!

Mentors are expected to meet regularly with their Mentees, but are of course welcome to participate in all other program components (launch & wrap-up events, workshops, etc.) except for the Group Check-ins, which are designed for participants only. All participation in additional program components/events is voluntary and not required.

The role of a Mentor in this program is completely voluntary, however as a token of our appreciation to Mentors, attendance is free at all of the program’s events, and we will offer 50% off of your Chamber’s membership fee the next time you renew!