Released on March 4, 2026
Fifth Annual Indigenous Business Gathering Sees More Than 1,100 Attendees
Today, the Government of Saskatchewan hosted the Indigenous Business Gathering (IBG), one of the largest events of its kind in Canada, in Saskatoon. This gathering, now in its fifth year, plays a vital role in increasing Indigenous participation in the economy, thereby creating strong, vibrant communities throughout the province.
"Saskatchewan is at the forefront of creating economic opportunities for Indigenous Peoples and advancing economic reconciliation in Canada," Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding said. "Through the IBG, we are supporting growth for First Nations and Métis-led businesses and organizations by connecting them to potential partners, suppliers, mentors and investors."
Five per cent of all private-sector businesses in Saskatchewan are Indigenous-owned, according to Statistics Canada. This ranks third among the provinces in this category, above the national average of four per cent. With First Nations and Métis-led businesses forming such a significant portion of the province's business sector, the demand for an event such as the IBG is clear.
Organizations from all sectors participate in the gathering, one of which includes Sixteen Safety Services, an Indigenous- and woman-owned occupational health and safety company.
"The IBG is one of the most impactful events we participate in each year," Sixteen Safety Services President and CEO Andrea Crittenden said. "We have proudly attended since the beginning, and it undoubtedly continues to create meaningful economic opportunities by directly connecting Indigenous businesses with organizations seeking trusted partners. The relationships built here continue to strengthen not only our organization, but communities across Saskatchewan."
Saskatchewan is further contributing to economic reconciliation through the Saskatchewan Indigenous Investment Finance Corporation (SIIFC), which was established to increase access to capital for Indigenous communities and entities to participate in natural resource development and value-added agriculture projects. This past year, George Gordon Developments received a $7 million loan guarantee through SIIFC for their 32-megawatt Wicehtowak Solar Project.
"Events like this provide a strong platform for Indigenous businesses to connect, build relationships, and advance meaningful economic opportunities," George Gordon Developments Vice President of Business Development Josh Montana said. "We are grateful to the Saskatchewan Indigenous Investment Finance Corporation for their financial support, and to the Government of Saskatchewan for continuing to move reconciliation into action through tangible investments that empower Indigenous communities and businesses."
Projects such as these are more likely to come to fruition through the connections and dialogue facilitated by events like the IBG.
New to the event last year was an area for Indigenous vendors to market their products.
Koda Promotional, a company selling promotional products, apparel, and business gifts, is another business that has seen the benefits of the IBG firsthand.
"This was our third year participating in the IBG," Koda Promotional Founder and President Todd Standing said. "As a First Nation-owned and -operated Saskatchewan vendor, we always look forward to this annual gathering. The event positively impacts Saskatchewan's economy by helping to grow Indigenous participation in the private sector."
Today's event drew more than 1,100 attendees and featured 153 trade show booths, as well as 13 vendors.
For more information, visit: InvestSK.ca.
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