Our understanding of entrepreneurship is often shaped by stereotypical cis-heteronormative depictions of Silicon Valley entrepreneurs. This perception has constrained efforts to build diverse, inclusive settings where 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs can grow.
This is why Telfer professor Ramzi Fathallah has been awarded a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council Insight Grant for his project titled “Building a more inclusive entrepreneurship ecosystem: A study of 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs in Canada.”
Fathallah’s research aims to support nationwide efforts to promote 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs, such as the federal government’s commitment to invest $25 million to create Canada’s first-ever 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurship program to address barriers faced by these entrepreneurs.
Fathallah aims to understand the makeup of Canadian
2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs as a diverse group and how their presence in different communities influences their strategic behaviours and outcomes.
2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs play a significant role in our economy and society. They trailblaze in their industries and pioneer products and services that break cultural and social barriers.
Despite this, we still know very little about this distinctive form of entrepreneurial activity, leaving some 2SLGBTQI+ business owners feeling undervalued and not well understood, according to the 2022 Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce (CQCC) Access and Equity Report.
Asserting the need to foster equity, diversity and inclusion
Fathallah’s work will help develop evidence-based knowledge of entrepreneurship. It will help assert the importance of including equity, diversity and inclusion in management research practices.
Importantly, Fathallah aims to reach diverse non-academic audiences and disseminate his findings to a wide range of stakeholders. This could lead to GDP growth, job creation and innovation through diverse perspectives while promoting equality and reduction of systematic barriers, contributing to the well-being of both society and entrepreneurs.
Fathallah’s research will be a first step in supporting 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs.
