Welcome to the first Queer Side of Things newsletter of 2026.

This year, we’re focused on helping 2SLGBTQI+ communities—and the organizations that serve them—access practical support, build stronger partnerships, and move from intention to impact.

Here’s what’s happening right now, plus one simple way to stay connected.

In today’s edition

• A members-only event happening this week (limited spaces)

• What we are prioritizing in 2026

• Our Mentorship Program is recruiting mentors + mentees

• One question that will shape our programming

What’s happening this week

Funder Connect (Members-Only) — Thursday, January 29 | 2:00–4:00 PM

This week we’re convening members for a focused Funder Connect session—practical, relationship-driven, and designed to support real momentum.

Member note: Registration is available through the member portal. Spaces are limited.

Mentorship Program — now recruiting mentors + mentees

We’re opening up our Mentorship Program for 2026 and we’re looking for:

• Mentors who can share experience, practical guidance, and encouragement

• Mentees who want support navigating leadership, career growth, and community impact

Interested? Use our form to sign up: MENTOR/MENTEE FORM (select Mentor or Mentee). You can also DM us if you have questions.

What we’re prioritizing in 2026

1) Stronger pathways to resources

Not just “where to find funding,” but how to position your work clearly and build relationships that last.

2) Leadership that’s sustainable

The work is intense—we’re building spaces that help leaders stay resourced, not just resilient.

3) Community-driven learning

We’re centering what’s working on the ground and sharing tools that can be adapted across contexts.

One thing you can do this month

Tell us what your organization needs most right now. Comment with one word (or a short phrase): funding, partnerships, strategy, evaluation, communications, governance, staffing, or policy.

We’ll use the responses to shape upcoming sessions and resources.

Want your organization to be more involved?

Membership is designed for organizations that want:

• access to member-only sessions and opportunities

• practical tools and resources

• relationship-building with peers, partners, and funders

If you want membership details, comment “MEMBER” or send us a DM and we’ll share next steps.

Connect with The Enchanté Network / Le réseau Enchanté

🌈 Who We Are: The Enchanté Network supports over 200 2SLGBTQI+ organizations across Canada. We build capacity, amplify impact, and drive systemic change.

Our work is focused on:

• Empowering members to grow their organizational capacity and deliver community-rooted services

• Breaking down silos by connecting members and fostering collaboration

• Advocating to funders and governments for what our communities truly need

How you can get involved:

📚 Explore Resources: Access toolkits, templates, and best practices for grassroots work

🗓️ Attend Workshops: Register for upcoming sessions and capacity-building events. 💸 Funding Alerts: Stay informed about grants, microfunding, and fellowships 📩 Stay Connected: Sign up to never miss an update.

Why Become a Member?

🤝 Networking: Build meaningful connections with peers and organizations nationwide

📈 Capacity Building: Access programs tailored to grassroots organizations. 📣 Advocacy:Make your needs and priorities part of our national policy work

🎓 Exclusive Programs: Join mentorship streams and apply for microgrants.

Ready to grow with us?

Discover more and become part of a thriving, supportive network at www.enchantenetwork.ca