Fundraising Spotlight with Misfit Ventures - S4EP1

On this episode of The QT Podcast, we’re joined by Misfit Ventures - Canada’s first 2SLGBTQIA+ venture capital fund - for a candid conversation on what it really takes to be investable.We get into what investment readiness actually looks like, the biggest things founders misunderstand before they start raising, and why lived experience can be a real competitive advantage in today’s market. Hosted by Naoufel Testaouni and Bobbie Racette, featuring Mandy Potter and Douglas Lu, Co-Founders and Managing Partners of Misfit Venturers.Season 4 of the QT Podcast features the Fundraising Spotlight Series - a webinar series powered by QueerTech and the QT Founders Program, built to help queer entrepreneurs navigate inclusive, impact-driven capital. The series is supported by the Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce, Innovation Science and Economic Development Canada, and TD.Resources:QueerTech: QT Digital Community (Free, Secure Community Portal connecting 10,000+ queer-in-tech professionals across the country).QueerTech: Our Website - Learn More - join us in Queering The Tech Ecosystem.Misfit Ventures: Website - Learn More & Funding Application Form.Misfit Ventures: LinkedIn - Stay Connected!

Rachel Jean-Pierre, leader en stratégie numérique et lauréate de plusieurs distinctions, nous propose un voyage inspirant, passant du travail social aux sommets de l’innovation en marketing chez Accenture. Dans cet épisode du QT Podcast, animé par Naoufel Testaouni, Rachel partage comment son parcours de vie et ses convictions façonnent un style de leadership basé sur l’empathie, la collaboration et une créativité courageuse. Elle évoque les défis rencontrés dans un secteur technologique dominé par les hommes, la construction d’espaces sécurisants pour faire émerger des idées ambitieuses, et la manière dont la créativité peut devenir un levier de justice sociale. Un échange profond sur les partenariats, la quête de sens et l’écoute de sa voix intérieure.

In this conversation, join entrepreneurial trailblazers Bobbie Racette and Marlon Thompson as we discuss the opportunities and challenges ahead for Canada’s small business sector. From funding to investor meetings, we discuss the importance of being yourself and how to overcome the “NOs” when raising capital. Whether you're a small business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or someone interested in the intersection of technology and business, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!This episode's guests included: Naoufel Testaouni (CEO & Co-Founder, QueerTech)Bobbie Racette (Founder & CEO, Virtual Gurus)Marlon Thompson (Founder, Opening Round).Tune in for expert advice, inspiring stories, and a look ahead at the tech-driven future of small business in the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities across Canada.

Listen in on our conversation about one of the most crucial aspects of launching a startup—building the right founding team. Co-Founder chemistry can make or break your business, and getting the team dynamic right from the start is essential for long-term success.We will explore how to find and attract the perfect Co-Founder, how to align your visions, and the key qualities to look for in a founding partner. We’ll also discuss the importance of trust, communication, and complementing each other’s strengths to create a well-rounded team. Plus, we’ll share stories from successful entrepreneurs who’ve navigated these waters and tips on overcoming common Co-Founder challenges.This episode's guests includ:Jason Robinson (QT Founders Advisory Board Member)Mary Richardson (Co-Founder & CEO, Bindr & COO, Colstart) Brandon Teller (CEO & Co-Founder, Bindr & CEO, Coldstart)

Dans cet épisode du QT Podcast, Jasmine Gervais, cofondatrice et cheffe de l’exploitation chez Wallrus Creative Technologies, raconte le parcours fascinant de cette entreprise technologique créative de pointe qui conçoit des espaces interactifs et des solutions d’engagement du public pour les secteurs culturel, événementiel et du marketing expérientiel.De ses débuts en production vidéo jusqu’à des projets d’envergure pour Bell Canada, la NASA, National Geographic et les Canadiens de Montréal, Jasmine revient sur les défis, les virages, et l’identité unique qui propulsent Wallrus vers l’avant. Elle explore également les liens profonds entre innovation, créativité et identité queer — offrant une perspective authentique et inspirante sur l’entrepreneuriat dans le domaine technologique.

In this powerful episode, we dive deep into the economic and social challenges many individuals and communities face today. From rising inequality to systemic barriers, we explore how these factors shape lives and hinder opportunities.Through personal stories, insightful discussions, and actionable strategies, we uncover how resilience, innovation, and community support can help overcome these obstacles. Join us as we explore the importance of education, social equity, and policy changes in creating a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.This episode's guests included: Angela Mullins (Editorial Director, Pink Triangle Press)Aniska Ali (Director of Philanthropy, The 519)Ameera Ladak (Vice Chair & Senior Product Operations Manager, AB LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce)Robin Shaban, (Associate Partner, Deetken).

Bruno Morel, CTO de Premier Health of America, nous ouvre la porte sur un parcours technologique hors du commun, où l’innovation va de pair avec la résilience et l’humanité. Dans cet épisode du QT Podcast, il partage les leçons qui l’ont façonné : son expérience d’immigration, les défis culturels, l’univers des infrastructures à fort achalandage, ainsi que son retour à l’essentiel à travers son travail dans le secteur de la santé. Bruno parle aussi de son identité queer et de la manière dont elle alimente un style de leadership fondé sur l’empathie, l’authenticité et la créativité. Un témoignage puissant sur l’importance d’être soi-même — surtout lorsqu’on est aux commandes.

In this episode, we dive deep into the power of technology and how it's being harnessed to create a positive social impact in the queer community.  We chatted with leading experts, innovators, and change-makers who are using tech to address pressing social issues. Learn how individuals, organizations, and even governments are leveraging tools to drive change, promote sustainability, and empower marginalized communities.This episode's guests included: Anis Robert Heydari (Senior Business Reporter, CBC News), Elisa Schaeffer (Dean of Technology, Collège LaSalle), Alejandro Mayoral Banos (Executive Director, Access Now), Siri Agrell (CEO, BetaKit) and Lisa Gibson (President and Founder, Ignite Communications).Tune in to discover how technology isn’t just shaping the future—it’s shaping a more equitable and sustainable world for everyone.

Join us in our conversation with innovator and entrepreneur, Olivier Lussier, Co-Founder and Creative Director at Lowbirth Games as he takes us on an exciting journey of creating video games with diverse, authentic queer characters. In this podcast, we explore the challenges and triumphs of building inclusive worlds where representation matters. From game development to the personal stories that inspire characters, our host, Dae Courtney shares insights on how queer narratives are shaping the future of gaming. Whether you're a fellow game developer, a passionate player, or simply curious about the intersection of tech and identity, this episode is your backstage pass to a new era of gaming.Supported by the Canada Media Fund

Did you know queer people hold <1% of leadership positions in the Canadian tech industry? This episode sheds light on the resilience, authenticity, and empathy that queer leaders bring to the table. It’s filled with industry leader insights to help lift queer professionals to leadership heights. We hope you enjoy it! Many thanks to our incredible Guests. Featuring: Clea Arrieta, Bruno Morel, Dax Dasilva, Lindsay Evans, Jess Malz, RK Popkin, Simran Kanda, & Jacquie Dinershul. Produced, Hosted, and Edited by Dae Courtney Supported by the Canadian Media Fund Become a QT today at ⁠⁠QueerTech.Org ⁠