Highlighting The Enchanté Network

The Enchanté Network represents and connects more than 300 queer and trans organizations spanning every province and territory in Canada.

“At our core, we exist to connect queer and trans organizations so they can learn from one another, rely on one another and innovate together,” says Tyler Boyce, Enchanté’s Executive Director. “Many queer and trans organizations do vital, life-saving frontline work but are under-resourced. Through our programs—particularly leadership development, mentorship and capacity building—we help organizations strengthen their internal systems and sustainability so they can focus on the work their communities need most.”

Queer and trans non-profits have deep expertise to contribute to public policy, but many are frontline organizations that lack the time or capacity to engage in national advocacy. With the McConnell Foundation’s support, Enchanté has been able to begin doing some of that work.

“We were able to harness the collective power of queer and trans organizations across the country to push for policy conditions that can improve lives,” says Boyce of what has been made possible through the Foundation’s funding. “By strengthening the sector’s ability to engage in advocacy now, we are shaping policy outcomes that will endure well into the future.”

Many small and mid-sized frontline non-profits have been historically excluded from policy spaces, despite having valuable insights into what works and what doesn’t. Boyce says this often happens when organizations internalize the idea that their voices don’t belong in national policy conversations. Enchanté’s efforts have demonstrated that empowerment is a critical part of systems change.

Enchanté also noted the nature of the Foundation’s support. “Beyond funding, McConnell has been an incredibly flexible and supportive partner. They showed up as genuine thought partners,” explains Boyce. He concludes: