(REGINA, SK) Economic Development Regina (EDR) has unveiled the six Regina-area companies selected for Cohort 1 of Upscale – a new business development program designed to accelerate high-potential local businesses. 

Over the coming months, each company will work closely with EDR to build and implement a tailored strategic growth plan. Upscale offers professional services and one-on-one guidance to enable long-term, scalable success. From expanding operations and entering new markets to refining strategy, cohort companies will receive the support they need to take the next step.  

Cohort 1 companies include: 

• The Corner Office CFO 

• Crazy Ape Extreme Equipment 

• Greenwave Innovations 

• Intriquip Instruments Inc. 

• Prometal Industries Ltd. 

• Sticks and Doodles 

More information about Upscale can be found at upscalesk.ca. 

For More information, contact 

Mattea Columpsi 

Manager, Communications 

Economic Development Regina  

306-565-6338 

About Upscale 

Launched by Saskatchewan Regional Economic Development Agency (SREDA) and Economic Development Regina (EDR), and supported by Prairies Economic Development Canada, Upscale delivers expert guidance, market insight, and high-value resources to help companies scale with confidence – driving economic growth and reinforcing Saskatchewan’s reputation as a thriving hub for entrepreneurship and innovation. Upscale is designed for for-profit, privately held businesses located in the Saskatoon or Regina Regions that meet the following criteria: 

• Incorporated and operational for at least two years 

• Fewer than 150 employees 

• Annual revenue between $1 million and $50 million 

• A clear and established business plan 

• Operating in one of the following key industries: agriculture, mining, manufacturing, energy, technology, and/or life sciences/biotechnology 

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) 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) For generations, Saskatchewan farmers have used the phrase “million-dollar rain” to describe the impact of a good soak – like the one much of Saskatchewan experienced through the month of June. It turns out their number is a bit low.  

According to modeling by Economic Development Regina (EDR) and Crop Intelligence, an inch (25mm) of rain can have a massive impact on the yield potential of Saskatchewan farms. In fact, for cropland in the southern 1/3 of Saskatchewan (approximately from Saskatoon south), EDR has calculated a $1 billion boost in yield potential.  

“For many of us, understanding the true importance of the ag sector can be a bit abstract,” said EDR President & CEO Chris Lane. “This is one impact we can actually quantify. 

“An inch of the right kind of rain, coming at the right time, delivers $1 billion in increased yield potential to southern Saskatchewan farmers. That’s something we can all get our head around.”

Producers agree. 

“While there are dozens of factors that ultimately determine a successful year, getting the right moisture at the right time remains one of the most important,” said Hebert Group CEO and Moosomin area producer Kristjan Hebert. “While nothing counts until the crop is in the bin, the boost in soil moisture we’ve seen this spring puts crops in a strong position heading into the summer.” 

Crop Intelligence is an app that interprets weather station data by using crop available moisture, accumulated rainfall, and expected precipitation to model yield potential throughout the growing season, allowing farmers to make real time agronomic decisions with confidence to optimize their return from their crop. 

Based on Crop Intelligence’s model, 25mm of rain in the Regina area provides an additional: 

• 13% on cereal yields 
• 12% on canola yields 
• 12% on pulse yields 

Fueled by a strong and diverse ag sector, Regina’s economy boasts critical expertise in agribusiness, manufacturing, value-added processing, energy and renewables, trade, finance, and more. 

For more information, contact:  

Chris Bonk
Director, Brand and Communications
Economic Development Regina Inc.
cbonk@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) With strong economic, employment and population growth, a stable housing market, and promising new sectors, the Greater Regina Area’s (GRA) economy is expected to achieve a solid “B+” grade for 2024, reflecting the region’s underlying strength and potential. 

Economic Development Regina’s (EDR) first “State of the GRA Economy” report delivers a detailed examination of six key economic indicators: GDP growth, employment, housing, key sectors, people, and new markets & sectors. The report is the latest from EDR’s Data & Insights team. 

“Regina has always been a place of growth and opportunity for businesses, workers, and families alike,” said EDR President and CEO Chris Lane. “With a strong foundation in place, our region is well-positioned to become the heartbeat of a new, sustainable prairie economy.” 

While the report notes several key areas of strength, it also identifies areas for improvement, including bridging the labour gap, housing availability and variability, and long-term retention of newcomers to the region.  

“Coming off record employment in 2023 (145,000), 2024 will see Regina sit among the nation’s leaders in GDP growth (1.6%) and population growth (1.5%) in 2024,” Lane noted. “We’ve also got some headwinds, including a slowing growth rate compared to previous years, a softening housing market (-1.6% of 2024), and negative interprovincial migration (-1,733 in 2023).” 

“Overall, Regina’s economy is in a good place, but we have some room for improvement if we’re going to score an ‘A’ next year,” Lane added. “The Bank of Canada’s June 5 decision to decrease its prime lending rate by 25 basis points is a step in the right direction.”

EDR’s Data & Insights team was launched in 2023 to better inform and empower data-based decision-making for stakeholders. The unit has produced several critical insights including the State of the Labour Market in the Greater Regina Area, Saskatchewan’s Annual Megaproject: Spring Seeding, and the Monthly Economic Brief and Report Card. Additional insights will be released in 2024 as they are developed.  

View EDR’s full State of the GRA Economy report here.

For more information, contact:

Mattea Columpsi
Manager, Communications
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