As part of its broader push to strengthen regional innovation ecosystems, the Government of Canada is investing C$910,000 to support early-stage entrepreneurs in Saskatchewan.
The funding, announced by Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan), will support the Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority (SREDA) in delivering programming through the SK Startup Institute. Over the next two years, the initiative will provide mentorship, training, and advisory services to entrepreneurs across the province.
“Great businesses often start with a simple idea – but getting from that idea to opening your doors isn’t always easy. That’s why we’re helping more people across Saskatchewan turn those innovative new ideas into real businesses. By connecting Saskatchewan entrepreneurs with practical advice, mentorship, and resources, this program will help to create opportunity in rural and urban communities across the province.”
Buckley Belanger, Secretary of State for Rural Development
The SK Startup Institute, run by SREDA, offers free services to people starting or growing a business. These include one-on-one advising, workshops, training sessions, and mentorship from experienced business advisors.
Moreover, the program is accessible across Saskatchewan. Entrepreneurs can use these services in Regina, Saskatoon, and other communities. They are delivered in person, by phone, by video, and online.
Services are available in Regina, Saskatoon, and across the rest of the province, delivered in person, by phone, by video, and online.
Importantly, the program addresses a common challenge. Many people have viable business ideas but do not know where to begin. Early-stage hurdles – such as understanding the market, writing a business plan, securing financing, and managing licensing – often delay or stop progress.
What the funding will deliver
The SK Startup Institute already plays a key role in Saskatchewan’s startup ecosystem. Based on past performance, it expects to support around 1,250 entrepreneurs annually and deliver over 3,000 business support interactions each year.
With the new funding, the institute plans to expand its reach. Over the next two years, it aims to train 1,200 participants, provide 6,000 business advisory services, and serve 2,500 unique clients.
The project is funded under the Regional Innovation Ecosystems (RIE) Program, which focuses on strengthening not-for-profit organizations that help businesses innovate, grow, and compete globally.
“Through SK Startup Institute, we help entrepreneurs turn those ideas into real businesses with practical guidance, connections, and support. We’re grateful for PrairiesCan’s investment, which allows us to reach founders across Saskatchewan as they build businesses that create jobs, strengthen our economy, and expand opportunity”
Erin Lawson, Chief Executive Officer, SREDA
Part of a broader funding shift in Canada
The Saskatchewan announcement fits into a broader shift in Canada’s innovation strategy. Increasingly, the government is distributing funding across regions and sectors.
Recently:
- The federal government provided a repayable investment of over C$1.1 million in Alberta-based Landing Zones Canada to help commercialize AI and machine learning technologies under the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative.
- Canada also announced a C$2.8 million investment to boost AI adoption in Northern Canada, aimed at helping businesses and communities integrate AI into operations and improve regional competitiveness.
Together, these investments span multiple stages of the innovation pipeline. They range from early-stage entrepreneurship to applied AI and regional technology adoption.
The bigger picture
Canada’s innovation policy is increasingly focused on building capacity outside major urban hubs. Instead of concentrating funding in cities like Toronto or Vancouver, programs like RIE aim to strengthen regional ecosystems.
For Saskatchewan, this means more structured support for first-time founders and a clearer pathway from idea to business.
Read more about Canadian government funding and policy announcements on The Tech Factor.
