(Regina, SK) Together with at least 12 private, public, and non-profit organizations, Economic Development Regina (EDR) is conducting the first outbound mission of its U.S. engagement strategy – May 20 to 23 in Denver, Colorado.  

The mission is intended to bolster an already strong relationship between Colorado and Saskatchewan, which saw more than $301.5M in goods flow between the two jurisdictions in the past year. 

“In a difficult trade environment like this, one of the most important actions we can all take is engagement,” said EDR CEO Chris Lane. “Together with our partners, EDR is embarking on a targeted strategy that promotes trade opportunities, attracts business and investment, and perhaps most importantly, fosters goodwill between Canadian and American businesses.”

A positive relationship with the U.S. is crucial to ensuring a healthy economy. Prior to recently announced tariffs on both sides of the border, Regina’s GDP growth for 2025 was projected to be 2.5%. A prolonged trade war could reduce that growth to 0.5%, with a GDP loss of $329M and 730 jobs by the end of 2025. 

“This mission to Denver represents an incredible opportunity to showcase our city’s strengths in agriculture innovation, energy, manufacturing, and beyond,” said Mayor Chad Bachynski. “Economic Development Regina’s leadership in fostering international trade and investment is a crucial step in strengthening Regina’s economy and our global connections.  

“By building partnerships and expanding trade opportunities with Colorado, we are investing in Regina’s future, creating jobs, and ensuring long-term prosperity. I commend EDR and all participating organizations for championing this initiative. With the launch of new daily non-stop flights between Regina and Denver, the Regina Airport Authority is helping create seamless connections that will further enhance business, trade, and investment opportunities between our two economies.” 

The mission closely follows today’s launch of daily, non-stop United Airlines service between Regina and Denver, creating a direct link between Denver’s thriving economy and Saskatchewan’s capital – a hub for agriculture innovation, traditional and renewable energy, advanced manufacturing and supply chain connectivity into Western Canada. The first Dever-bound flight is scheduled for Friday, May 16. 

“We appreciate the support of our business community and EDR in facilitating the Denver mission,” said James Bogusz, President and CEO of the Regina Airport Authority. “This new route strengthens Regina’s position as the key gateway to southern Saskatchewan and demonstrates United Airlines’ confidence in Saskatchewan’s future. Connecting us directly to the 6th busiest airport in the world is key to the economic growth of our province.” 

Highlights of the mission include: 

• A Leadership Roundtable bringing together business leaders, post-secondary institutions, and trade agencies; 

• Active participation in World Trade Day, Colorado’s premier international business event; 

• Visits to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and Colorado State University’s SPUR campus, exploring shared research interests in clean tech and food systems; 

• A WorldDenver Premier Briefing on U.S.-Canada economic relations. 

“In the true spirit of Economic Development Week, this mission is about building connections, exploring business and investment opportunities, and growing together in sectors where our economies align,” said Lane. “EDR is truly excited to be part of this dynamic delegation.” 

The Regina delegation includes representatives from the Government of Saskatchewan, the Regina Airport Authority, the University of Regina, Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership, Canadian Western Agribition, and several Saskatchewan-based manufacturing businesses. 

For additional information, please contact:

Mattea Columpsi
Manager, Communications
Economic Development Regina
mcolumpsi@economicdevelopmentregina.com
306-565-6392

About Economic Development Regina Inc.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REGINA INC. (EDR) is the lead agency for economic development for the Greater Regina Area (GRA).

EDR provides leadership to the community with specific accountability for the following core functions:

• Support industry growth and diversification through retention, development, and attraction of industry.
• Find innovative ways to promote sustainable growth while effectively addressing the challenges associated with it.
• Market and promote the Greater Regina Area for business and investment.
• Ensure the Greater Regina Area offers a vibrant and diversified economy for investors, a climate of growth for business and works toward a high quality of life for residents.

Saskatoon, SK – May 14, 2025 – Today, the Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority (SREDA) and Economic Development Regina (EDR) are proud to announce the launch of Upscale, a new growth program designed specifically for established businesses in the Saskatoon and Regina regions. Supported by Prairies Economic Development Canada, this initiative aims to provide the support, expertise, and resources that local companies need to scale their operations, drive growth, and expand into new markets.

Applications are now open for the joint initiative between SREDA and EDR. Designed for companies ready to scale, the program will deliver tailored growth plans, expert advice, and resources to help Saskatoon and Regina businesses grow with confidence.

“Upscale is an incredible opportunity for Saskatoon Region businesses to receive support that’s aligned with their growth journey,” said Erin Lawson, CEO of SREDA. “By equipping local companies with the right tools and expertise, we’re helping them scale with confidence and contribute to a stronger, more resilient economy.”

“Regina has a long history of entrepreneurs and game changers whose impact can be felt here at home and beyond,” said Chris Lane, CEO of EDR. “Upscale is designed to give a new generation of entrepreneurs the tools, insights, and support they need not only to scale their businesses, but to strengthen our economy.”

Program Details:

• The Upscale program is open to established businesses located in the Saskatoon and Regina regions that are past the startup stage and ready to scale.
• Applications will be accepted starting May 14, 2025, and will remain open until June 6 at 4:00 p.m.
• A virtual information session will be held on May 20, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. to provide more details about the Saskatoon-based program and answer any questions from prospective applicants.
• Interested businesses can apply by visiting www.upscalesk.ca and completing the application form.

SREDA and EDR are excited to offer this opportunity to local businesses to ensure that Saskatoon and Regina continue to be vibrant, thriving hubs for innovation and entrepreneurship.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Sarah Wolensky
Director, Marketing and Communications, SREDA
swolensky@sreda.com
306-664-0723

Chris Bonk
Director, Brand and Communications, EDR
cbonk@economicdevelopmentregina.com
306-565-6388

ABOUT SREDA
The Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority (SREDA) is dedicated to driving economic growth and prosperity in the Saskatoon Region by advancing entrepreneurship, supporting local economic growth and attracting investment.

ABOUT EDR
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REGINA INC. (EDR) is the lead agency for economic development for the Greater Regina Area (GRA).

EDR provides leadership to the community with specific accountability for the following core functions:

• Support industry growth and diversification through retention, development, and attraction of industry.
• Find innovative ways to promote sustainable growth while effectively addressing the challenges associated with it.
• Market and promote the Greater Regina Area for business and investment.
• Ensure the Greater Regina Area offers a vibrant and diversified economy for investors, a climate of growth for business and works toward a high quality of life for residents.

(Regina) On Thursday, April 10, Economic Development Regina (EDR) will host the first-ever Regina 25 Awards, an initiative celebrating 25 Regina people who embody the spirit, resilience, and pride of our city.

The Regina 25 is a grassroots initiative created by Regina people, for Regina people. It shines a spotlight on those who make Regina a place of opportunity, innovation, and connection.

“Regina has always been filled with incredible people, and this just proves it,” said Chris Lane, CEO & President of EDR. “With over 150 nominations, our judges had the difficult task of selecting individuals who best represent the heart and soul of Regina. These are high-quality people who have made a meaningful impact, and we’re grateful to the judges for their time and thoughtful decisions.”

Nominees came from every corner of the city, representing a wide range of backgrounds, industries, and experiences. From entrepreneurs and educators to community champions and business leaders, every nominee shares one thing in common: a lasting, positive impact on Regina. This year’s 25 honourees have been recognized across five categories: Game-changers, Grassroots, Growers, Mentors, and Quick Studies.

“I’m incredibly proud of all The Regina 25 nominees and award recipients – a group of exceptional residents who have gone above and beyond to elevate our community. These individuals demonstrate the highest levels of enthusiasm, growth, leadership, innovation, passion, creativity, and commitment to excellence,” said Mayor Chad Bachynski.

“Not only are they leaders at the foundation of our city’s future, but they serve as an inspiration for all. They are role models and lead by example, demonstrating the values that help build a strong, vibrant, and inclusive community.”

Winners in each category are as follows:

Game-changers: Honouring trailblazers whose bold, innovative ideas are already making waves in Regina, and potentially, around the world.

• Cadmus Delorme
• Melissa Coomber-Bendtsen
• John Bailey
• Hannah Castle
• Evan Grant

Grassroots: Recognizing community leaders who bring people together and elevate Regina in ways that improve lives and build connections in classic Regina fashion.

• Jada Yee
• Alana Folk
• Tiro Mthembu
• Steve Compton & Troy Verboom
• Kimberli Kolody-Watt

Growers: Celebrating entrepreneurs who embody Regina’s unstoppable, “get-it-done” spirit, and who have made a real impact here at home and beyond.

• Matt Fahlman & Kyle Smyth
• Denis Carignan
• Jaimie Kopeck
• Tanner Brightman
• Frank Hart

Mentors: Honouring long-standing leaders who have not only strengthened Regina’s economy but have also guided others on their career journeys and personal growth.

• Bruce Anderson
• Krystal Kolodziejak
• Pam Klein
• Denis Simard
• Linda Allen-Hardisty

Quick Studies: Celebrating people who have recently moved to Regina and quickly made their mark, enriching the city’s vibrancy. Whether they’ve come from another city, province, or country, we want to honour those who’ve relocated to Regina in the past 3 or so years and have had an impact in their workplace or in the community.

• Moses Anjorin
• Pall Agarwal
• Kendra Wren
• Brandon McIvor
• Jennifer Brewin

Special Award: Recognizing broad based nominations and judges’ recognition across multiple categories.

• Josh Stewart-Van Dusen

More information on the Regina 25 winners can be found at TheRegina25.com.

EDR wishes to thank program partners Bravo Tango, Harvard Media, as well as Grow Regina Partners.

For additional information, please contact:

Mattea Columpsi
Manager, Communications
Economic Development Regina
mcolumpsi@economicdevelopmentregina.com
306-565-6392

About Economic Development Regina Inc.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REGINA INC. (EDR) is the lead agency for economic development for the Greater Regina Area (GRA).

EDR provides leadership to the community with specific accountability for the following core functions:

• Support industry growth and diversification through retention, development, and attraction of industry.
• Find innovative ways to promote sustainable growth while effectively addressing the challenges associated with it.
• Market and promote the Greater Regina Area for business and investment.
• Ensure the Greater Regina Area offers a vibrant and diversified economy for investors, a climate of growth for business and works toward a high quality of life for residents.

(REGINA, SK) With tariffs from the U.S. and China threatening jobs and economic stability, Economic Development Regina (EDR) is taking action to protect Regina-area people and businesses – including a planned mission to Denver, Colorado.

“Prolonged tariffs with two major trading partners could devastate Regina’s economy, impacting businesses, jobs, and families,” said EDR President and CEO Chris Lane. “Now more than ever, it’s important to stand up and advocate for the opportunities in Regina and the local businesses, entrepreneurs and workers who call this city home.”

EDR has developed a four-part strategy to help protect Regina’s economy. The strategy includes:

1) U.S. Engagement

• Lead a Regina delegation on a May 2025 mission to Denver. Partners include: Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership, University of Regina, Canadian Western Agribition, Pro Metal Industries, City of Moose Jaw, Global Transportation Hub, Regina Airport Authority, Regina Hotel Association and others.
• EDR’s new U.S. Engagement Strategy aims at promoting trade and economic ties between major partner organizations in the United States.

2) Real-time Impact Analysis

• EDR’s Economics, Data & Analytics teams provide Regina-focused analysis and recommendations for business decision-makers and policymakers, updated regularly as trade and tariff policies shift.

3) Partner Collaboration

• Support for Mayor Bachynski’s attendance at the 2025 Mayors Summit, hosted by the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) in Washington DC, to advocate for Regina’s trade and economic interests.
• Participation in a “Team Saskatchewan” delegation to Hannover, Germany, promoting Regina as a global trade and investment destination.

4) Economic Diversification & Business Growth

• Launch a new Business Growth Program with the Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority and Prairies Economic Development Canada, securing $1 million in support for high-impact Saskatchewan businesses.
• Promote Regina as a top location to live, work, do business, and invest.

The impact of current trade disruptions is significant. EDR estimates that U.S. tariffs alone will create a $329 million hole in Regina’s GDP in 2025, with a potential loss of 730 jobs.

Saskatchewan’s agricultural, manufacturing, and energy sectors, all impacted by tariffs, are crucial to the province’s – and Regina’s – economic health. EDR will continue to seek opportunities to grow those sectors despite the current trade headwinds.

Partner Quotes on Regina’s U.S. Engagement Mission to Denver

James Bogusz, President and CEO · Regina Airport Authority
“Over the last decade, YQR has worked alongside our many partners to fulfill our community’s request to reintroduce direct, non-stop service to major US hubs. The reach this new Denver connection creates for our business community is a strategic and long-term benefit for many. We share the collective concern and frustration around the tariffs that have occurred in recent weeks, but we are looking forward to the positive economic impact that a carrier like United Airlines brings to all of southern Saskatchewan.”

Mark Brown, President, Pro Metal Industries, Ltd. / Chief Operating Officer, Pasqua First Nation Group of Companies
“I’m excited to join EDR and this dynamic group of Regina organizations on the upcoming trade mission to Denver. At this pivotal time for Regina’s economy, collaboration is more crucial than ever to drive growth, create jobs, and unlock new opportunities for our businesses and community.”

Maryse Carmichael, City Manager, City of Moose Jaw
“The City of Moose Jaw appreciates the chance to be a part of this trade mission, especially at this critical time. Moose Javians are not immune to the crippling economic effect of tariffs, and this is an avenue to create new partnerships and promote the #Notoriously unique qualities that make Moose Jaw, Regina, and the entire corridor, a prime area for investment. We thank Economic Development Regina for the invitation.”

Daniel Hersche, CEO of the Global Transportation Hub (GTH)
“Saskatchewan is an export economy that relies on our ability to move product as efficiently as possible to our trading partners. As Saskatchewan’s premier inland port we know that the free flow of Saskatchewan goods to the world can only be achieved through stable trade partnerships. We need to continue to engage with those partners to ensure that this happens.”

Sandra Jackle, President & CEO, Regina Hotel Association
“The launch of direct air service between Regina and Denver is a game-changer for our city’s tourism and hospitality industry. This mission is an opportunity to both celebrate this milestone and strengthen economic ties between our regions. By fostering connections with key stakeholders in Denver, we can drive business travel, attract new events, and highlight Regina’s unique offerings as a premier destination. The Regina Hotel Association is proud to support this initiative and looks forward to the opportunities it will create for our hotel and tourism sector.”

Dr. Jeff Keshen, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Regina
“This mission is important to maintaining strong connections with our academic partners in the United States. The University of Regina is committed to fulfilling our Memorandum of Understanding with the Colorado School of Mines, signed in 2022, to collaborate on research and other academic opportunities. Together, we have a shared commitment to energy and mineral resource sustainability, and this work is more important now than ever. Our commitment to this initiative will expand the province’s reach in innovation and strengthen the impact of our research globally.”

For additional information, please contact:

Chris Bonk
Director, Brand & Communications
Economic Development Regina
cbonk@economicdevelopmentregina.com
306-565-6388

About Economic Development Regina Inc.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REGINA INC. (EDR) is the lead agency for economic development for the Greater Regina Area (GRA).
EDR provides leadership to the community with specific accountability for the following core functions:

• Support industry growth and diversification through retention, development, and attraction of industry.
• Find innovative ways to promote sustainable growth while effectively addressing the challenges associated with it.
• Market and promote the Greater Regina Area for business and investment.
• Ensure the Greater Regina Area offers a vibrant and diversified economy for investors, a climate of growth for business and works toward a high quality of life for residents.

 SASKATOON & REGINA, SK – The Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority (SREDA) and Economic Development Regina (EDR) are launching the Saskatchewan Business Growth Program to accelerate second-stage business growth in Saskatchewan. The program is made possible by $1M in shared funding over three years from Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan), supporting high-potential companies in Saskatoon and Regina with revenues between $1M-$50M. 

The Saskatchewan Business Growth Program fills a critical gap in Saskatchewan’s business ecosystem by providing tailored support to second-stage businesses in key industries, including technology, manufacturing, agriculture, mining, and energy. These high-potential businesses have outgrown startup resources but still require strategic guidance to scale. Through customized growth strategies and wrap-around support, the program helps companies expand operations, enter new markets, and optimize processes, driving job creation, investment, and revenue growth. By strengthening supply chains and fostering innovation, the program enhances Saskatchewan’s global competitiveness while positioning Saskatoon and Regina as vibrant economic hubs. 

“The Saskatchewan Business Growth Program is a transformative initiative for local businesses ready to flourish beyond the startup phase, providing them with the essential resources to scale with confidence,” said Erin Lawson, CEO at SREDA. “Through a blend of insightful research, expert guidance, and strategic support, we’re empowering Saskatchewan companies to grow an create lasting impact right here.”  

Chris Lane, President and CEO at EDR, added, “This program ensures high-potential businesses in both Saskatoon and Regina get the support they need to thrive. It’s about strengthening our economy from within and building a legacy of sustainable growth.” 

“Small and medium businesses are the backbone of the Canadian economy, but we know that the transition from start-up to growth can be difficult. That is why the Government of Canada supports programs like the Saskatchewan Business Growth Program—providing businesses with the resources and support they need to scale up, innovate, and strengthen key sectors of our economy,” said Anita Anand, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry. 

For media inquiries, please contact:

Sarah Wolensky 
Director, Marketing and Communications 
Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority (SREDA) 
swolensky@sreda.com  
306-664-0723 

Mattea Columpsi
Manager, Communications
Economic Development Regina
mcolumpsi@economicdevelopmentregina.com
306-565-6392

About SREDA 
The Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority (SREDA) is dedicated to driving economic growth and prosperity in the Saskatoon Region by advancing entrepreneurship, supporting local economic growth and attracting investment.  

About Economic Development Regina Inc.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REGINA INC. (EDR) is the lead agency for economic development for the Greater Regina Area (GRA).
EDR provides leadership to the community with specific accountability for the following core functions:

• Support industry growth and diversification through retention, development, and attraction of industry.
• Find innovative ways to promote sustainable growth while effectively addressing the challenges associated with it.
• Market and promote the Greater Regina Area for business and investment.
• Ensure the Greater Regina Area offers a vibrant and diversified economy for investors, a climate of growth for business and works toward a high quality of life for residents.

(Regina) Economic Development Regina (EDR) today launched the Regina 25, a program designed to celebrate the remarkable people who make Regina a place of opportunity, innovation, and community pride.

“We are so excited to celebrate 25 incredible individuals who embody the spirit of our city,” Mayor Chad Bachynski said. “The leadership and talent among us is inspiring. This initiative will shine a spotlight on these extraordinary individuals and share their stories with a local and global audience – highlighting the many opportunities that Regina offers.”

The Regina 25 is a grassroots initiative created by Regina people, for Regina people. A selection panel, featuring some of the most respected voices in the community, will have the challenging task of choosing the 25 individuals who best represent the values and achievements of Regina in five categories: Growers, Game-changers, Grassroots, Quick Studies, and Mentors.

“Regina’s unique spirit is defined by its ambitious yet humble “get-it-done” attitude,” EDR CEO Chris Lane said. “Regina 25 honours this spirit by recognizing individuals who have transformed the community and economy, making Regina a city where people and businesses thrive.”

EDR is calling on members of the community to nominate individuals who embody Regina’s vibrant spirit and have made a lasting impact. Whether it’s a business leader, entrepreneur, or an unsung hero, the program is about recognizing those who make Regina a better place to live, work, and invest.

The Regina 25 is made possible through the vision and sponsorship of Regina businesses including Harvard Media (and its stations: 620 CKRM, Play 92.1, and the Wolf 104.9), and Bravo Tango Advertising Firm.

More information on the Regina 25 can be found at TheRegina25.com.

For additional information, please contact:

Mattea Columpsi
Manager, Communications
Economic Development Regina
mcolumpsi@economicdevelopmentregina.com
306-565-6392

About Economic Development Regina Inc.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REGINA INC. (EDR) is the lead agency for economic development for the Greater Regina Area (GRA).
EDR provides leadership to the community with specific accountability for the following core functions:

• Support industry growth and diversification through retention, development, and attraction of industry.
• Find innovative ways to promote sustainable growth while effectively addressing the challenges associated with it.
• Market and promote the Greater Regina Area for business and investment.
• Ensure the Greater Regina Area offers a vibrant and diversified economy for investors, a climate of growth for business and works toward a high quality of life for residents.

(Regina, SK) First the first time, the Greater Regina Area (GRA) has a Regina-specific measure of its economic progress.

Developed by Economic Development Regina’s (EDR) Data and Insights team, and using a proprietary process to distill and weigh results, the Regina Prosperity Matrix (RPM) is a unique-in-Canada quarterly indicator that measures the overall health of the region’s economy.

“More than ever, local businesses, investors, and policymakers need sound, locally focused information to aid in decision-making,” EDR President & CEO Chris Lane said. “RPM is one in a range of tools offered by EDR that allow for data-informed business decisions. We’re pleased to share it with the community.”

RPM combines five indicators of importance to Regina’s economy to create a single composite indicator. As each individual I ndicator approaches its maximum value, the composite indicator trends toward a maximum score of 100.

“RPM is about more than statistics – it provides a regular checkup on the key data points that capture day to day life in Regina,” Lane said. “In essence, it’s not about the economy, it’s about quality of life.”

The overall Q4 2024 RPM score of 55 reflects strong economic performance with stable growth and manageable risks. Component scores include:

• Employment (47 – Moderate)
• Manufacturing (27 – Weak)
• Housing (69 – Strong)
• Retail/Consumer (83 – Very Strong)
• Household Affordability (51 – Moderate)

Q4 highlights include a strong retail and housing index, moderate employment, and household affordability levels. This points to strong consumer activity and housing demand, a relatively stable labour market. Similar to Canada’s broader manufacturing sector, Regina’s manufacturers saw sales declines in Q4, which impacted the RPM score for that component. With more than $3.2 billion in sales, the GRA’s manufacturing sector is, and will continue to be, a major driver of Regina’s economy.

“Overall, Regina’s economy showed robustness and resilience in Q4 2024,” Lane said. “While potential U.S. tariffs may create headwinds in coming months, our fundamentals are strong, and Regina is in a good place to weather the storm.”

Additional details on the Regina Prosperity Matrix can be found on the EDR website at www.economicdevelopmentregina.com/insights/regina-prosperity-matrix.

NOTE TO MEDIA

EDR President and CEO Chris Lane will be presenting at 8:45 a.m. at the Western Canada Economic Forum of January 29 at the Hotel Saskatchewan, Autograph Collection, 2125 Victoria Ave, Regina.

Lane will be available for interviews on this or other topics during the break in the session at
10:00 a.m. – or by appointment by calling the number below.

For additional information, please contact:

Chris Bonk
Director, Brand and Communications
Economic Development Regina
cbonk@economicdevelopmentregina.com
(306) 565-6388

About Economic Development Regina Inc.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REGINA INC. (EDR) is the lead agency for economic development for the Greater Regina Area (GRA).
EDR provides leadership to the community with specific accountability for the following core functions:

• Support industry growth and diversification through retention, development, and attraction of industry.
• Find innovative ways to promote sustainable growth while effectively addressing the challenges associated with it.
• Market and promote the Greater Regina Area for business and investment.
• Ensure the Greater Regina Area offers a vibrant and diversified economy for investors, a climate of growth for business and works toward a high quality of life for residents.

(Regina) Small businesses are the backbone of communities and economies worldwide, and Regina is no exception. Today, Economic Development Regina (EDR) released its State of Small Business report, an in-depth analysis of the small business ecosystem in Canada, Saskatchewan, and the Greater Regina Area (GRA).

“Small businesses are the cornerstone of Regina’s economy,” said EDR President and CEO Chris Lane. “This report not only underlines the vital role small businesses hold in our economy, it also emphasizes the importance of supporting them as they – and Regina’s economy – grow and adapt.”

The report, supported by data, highlights three key trends – adaptability & innovation, cultural & community impact, and future challenges – while showcasing the indispensable role of small businesses in the region:

• 98% of businesses in the GRA are small, employing 1 to 99 people.
• These small businesses generate $4.6 billion annually, contributing $4.4 billion to Regina’s GDP—an impressive 25% of the total GDP.
• Since 2019, the GRA has welcomed 368 new small businesses, demonstrating growth and innovation despite economic pressures.
• They contribute $567 million in total tax revenue, reinforcing their significance in supporting public services.

“The State of Small Business Report offers valuable data, analysis, and context for our small business community,” Regina Chamber of Commerce CEO Mike Tate said. “The report is a significant tool that enables small business to continue driving innovation, create local employment opportunities and foster development in the local community. EDR’s leadership continues to be an important resource for small business in Regina.”

The State of Small Business report is a call to action for community leaders, policymakers, and residents to recognize and champion small businesses as key contributors to Regina’s success.
“Regina is fortunate to have a broad range of supports in place for entrepreneurs, but some gaps still remain,” Lane said. “In the coming months, EDR will announce a renewed strategy to support high-potential companies and remove barriers from choosing Regina.”

View EDR’s full State of Small Business report here.

For additional information, please contact:

Mattea Columpsi
Manager, Communications
Economic Development Regina
mcolumpsi@economicdevelopmentregina.com

About Economic Development Regina Inc.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REGINA INC. (EDR) is the lead agency for economic development for the Greater Regina Area (GRA).
EDR provides leadership to the community with specific accountability for the following core functions:

• Support industry growth and diversification through retention, development, and attraction of industry.
• Find innovative ways to promote sustainable growth while effectively addressing the challenges associated with it.
• Market and promote the Greater Regina Area for business and investment.
• Ensure the Greater Regina Area offers a vibrant and diversified economy for investors, a climate of growth for business and works toward a high quality of life for residents.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Regina) The Greater Regina Area (GRA) and Saskatchewan could face significant economic challenges if the United States imposes a 25% tariff on Canadian imports, as threatened by President-elect Donald Trump.

Economic Development Regina (EDR) conducted an in-depth analysis, revealing that this potential policy could result in a $174M direct economic loss for Regina and an export reduction of nearly $4B across key provincial sectors, including agri-food, agricultural equipment, energy and raw materials.

If the proposed 25% tariff remains in place, total exports from these key sectors could decrease 10-25% by 2029, factoring in market changes and potential retaliatory measures.

“With Saskatchewan’s economy heavily reliant on trade, these tariffs pose a serious threat,” said EDR President & CEO Chris Lane. “Our agricultural, manufacturing, and energy sectors are crucial to the province’s economic health, and a disruption in trade with the U.S. could have a devastating impact. The potential loss of billions in exports, combined with resulting job cuts and rising costs, would not only affect businesses but also put a strain on everyday life for families and communities across the province”.

Under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), Saskatchewan exported $49.3B worth of goods to the U.S. in 2023, with the GRA contributing substantially. Global businesses headquartered in the GRA such as Brandt and AGT Foods export and invest in the U.S., creating jobs at home, and markets abroad for Saskatchewan products. Beyond the immediate $174M economic hit, the GRA could also see broader impacts, including the loss of 600 full-time jobs by the end of 2025 (mainly in transportation, warehousing, and manufacturing), and a potential 4-5% rise in inflation by late 2025.

“While these tariffs are not yet certain, it’s essential we understand their potential impact and take action,” said Lane. “We are always working to diversify trade and explore new markets for Regina-based companies, but the United States remains our most important partner. EDR supports and encourages leaders in politics, policy and industry to work together quickly to ensure the continued free trade of Saskatchewan products.”

To read the full analysis, please click here.

For additional information, please contact:

Mattea Columpsi
Manager, Communications
Economic Development Regina
mcolumpsi@economicdevelopmentregina.com
306-565-6392

About Economic Development Regina Inc.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REGINA INC. (EDR) is the lead agency for economic development for the Greater Regina Area (GRA).

EDR provides leadership to the community with specific accountability for the following core functions:

• Support industry growth and diversification through retention, development, and attraction of industry.
• Find innovative ways to promote sustainable growth while effectively addressing the challenges associated with it.
• Market and promote the Greater Regina Area for business and investment.
• Ensure the Greater Regina Area offers a vibrant and diversified economy for investors, a climate of growth for business and works toward a high quality of life for residents.

Regina, Saskatchewan will host the Western Canada Economic Forum 2025 on January 29-31 at the Hotel Saskatchewan.

The Western Canada Economic Forum (WCEF) is a not-for-profit organization created to showcase the strength of the Western Canadian economy and to create new partnerships for growth. Government and business leaders from across the West will gather at WCEF 2025 to discuss economic growth strategies that strengthen the economy and create jobs.

WCEF will convene key Western Canada business leaders to discuss how a strong Western Canadian economy strengthens the Canadian economy and, vice-versa, how a strong Canadian economy supports growth in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.

The lineup of speakers includes established business leaders and economic experts such as:

• Candace Laing (Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Chamber of Commerce)
• Dr. Trevin Stratton (Americas Economic Advisory Leader & Partner, Deloitte)
• Mark Parson (Vice President & Chief Economist, ATB Financial)
• Laurel Broten (Chief Executive Officer, Invest in Canada)
• Karina Gistelinck (President, Potash, BHP)
• Justine Hendricks (Chief Executive Officer, Farm Credit Canada)
• Cadmus Delorme (Chief Executive Officer, OneHoop)

WCEF 2025 is focused on discussions on the themes of economic outlook for the West, provincial economic growth plans, opportunities and challenges to economic growth, policy transformation, financing business growth across the West, trade and investment attraction, and First Nations economic development.

Economic Development Regina (EDR), Regina Hotel Association (RHA), and Tourism Saskatchewan partnered to successfully bring WCEF to Regina.

“Hosting this event isn’t just about showcasing our city’s strengths; it’s about bringing together the brightest minds and leaders from across Western Canada to tackle the challenges and opportunities we all share,” said CEO of EDR, Chris Lane. “By hosting the forum, we’re putting Regina at the center of critical conversations that will shape our region’s economic future and drive meaningful growth for our communities.”

Alex Fallon, Founder & Chair, WCEF said, “WCEF brings together the Western Canadian provinces to discuss how we can better support each other with partnerships for economic growth. WCEF 2025 in Regina will help showcase the role Regina and Saskatchewan as a whole plays in the economic strength of Western Canada.”

The full program, including all confirmed speakers, offsite tours, and networking opportunities can be found at www.WCEF.ca.

For additional information, please contact:

Alex Fallon
Founder and Chair
Western Canada Economic Forum
Alex.Fallon@wcef.ca

Mattea Columpsi
Manager, Communications
Economic Development Regina
mcolumpsi@economicdevelopmentregina.com