QT Qonference 2023: Fostering Resilience and Belonging in Tech

QueerTech has announced the highly anticipated second annual QT Qonference (QTQ), a two-day interactive event designed for entrepreneurs and business professionals in the tech industry who identify as part of, or allies to, the 2SLGBTQ+ community.?

The hybrid event will take place from November 1st to 2nd, gathering all in-person attendees in the heart of vibrant downtown Montreal. This year, as part of the event’s expanded programming, QueerTech is bringing the QT Qonference to two venues: Cirque Eloize & Hyatt Centric Ville-Marie.?

Whether attending virtually or in person, QTQ welcomes entrepreneurs, professionals and wider ecosystem players from across the country to experience a unique program built on thoughtful learning, genuine connection, and unfiltered celebration. The 2023 agenda was consciously developed to ensure three community groups, in particular, have access to applicable, highly tailored programming: those looking to access tech (students and professionals transitioning to tech), emerging leaders (professionals with 2-3 years of experience looking to advance their careers), and tech-based entrepreneurs (ideation to seed funding stage).?

“QT Qonference provides a space for 2SLGBTQ+ people in the tech industry to connect, learn, and feel a sense of belonging,” said Naoufel Testaouni, CEO of QueerTech. “This is also an important opportunity for our community to feel empowered so they can bring their authentic selves to work each and every day.”

Throughout the multi-day event, attendees of QTQ will have access to a series of facilitated workshops, inspirational keynotes, technical talks, and informative panels from leading industry experts. Additionally, attendees will have access to peer groups and networking sessions, fostering meaningful connections with others in the community.?

Only interested in founder-focused sessions? Maybe you just want to expand your leadership toolkit? No problem! Uniquely, QTQ also offers programming in four distinct, comprehensive content tracks to help everyone make the most of their experience: Technology Track, Leadership Development Track, Entrepreneurship Track, and the Mental Health and Wellness Track.

“Our government is proud to support the second edition of the QT Qonference and to help the members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities equip themselves with what they need to innovate, remain competitive, and prosper. Their leadership and know-how are essential in building an economy in Canada that is stronger and more inclusive. Thanks to CED’s support, QueerTech will be able to contribute to the development of Quebec’s technology industries, foster the adoption of equity, diversity and inclusion practices by businesses, and raise Montréal’s profile internationally,” added the Honourable Soraya?Martinez Ferrada, Member of Parliament for Hochelaga, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for CED.

"Innovation and diversity are part of Montréal's identity. The city has made the inclusion of everyone in the economic development of Montréal a priority, as has the information technology sector. We are therefore proud to welcome this unique event to the city's downtown core. We hope it will inspire others to get involved and dare to launch themselves in this high-potential sector, which needs everyone's creativity in order to grow," said Luc Rabouin, the elected official responsible for economic and commercial development, knowledge, innovation and design on the executive committee of the city of Montréal.

QueerTech thanks Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions and the City of Montreal for their support for the QT Qonference. QTQ is also made possible by a network of engaged sponsors: TouchTunes, Banque Nationale, RBC, and Google Chrome.

As a core pillar of QueerTech’s mission, the team works relentlessly to ensure all events are as accessible as possible - whether the barrier pertains to the cost of a ticket, or access to the venue itself. Sliding scale and Scholarship tickets, in addition to volunteer opportunities, will be available for QTQ 2023. Each venue is also fully wheelchair accessible.

Ticket rates - in-person and virtual - are determined by one’s role in the ecosystem: student, entrepreneur, professional, or recruiter. Visit www.queertech.org to learn more about QT Qonference and purchase your pass today!?