SASKATOON — Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding said the Saskatchewan government recognizes the importance of the province’s Indigenous Business Sector, with several programs in place to support its growth, as it is also beneficial to the entire province.
Kaeding represented the provincial government in hosting the 4th Annual Indigenous Business Gathering on Tuesday, March 25, at Prairieland Park, which various Indigenous business leaders and other officials attended.
Kaeding said the government has several programs involved, including those in trade and export development, which have specific business entities to deal with Indigenous-owned industries, making the event a success and now being recognized inter-provincially and nationwide.
“Indigenous businesses are helping the Saskatchewan economy. Our government certainly focuses on supporting Indigenous businesses, as evidenced by the establishment of specific departments dedicated to supporting Indigenous businesses. We'll find that they help facilitate opportunities we see between the different sectors in the province,” said Kaeding.
“Through the various opportunities that exist across the province, I think we have a lot to gain every time we see an event such as this, as popular as, and just ultimately witnessing the growth we're seeing in the Indigenous business network out there.”
He added that Indigenous businesses are in numerous sectors, including drilling, supply safety, activewear, sportswear, and tourism, where people can build a network and connect with the provincial government. Seeing them flourish inspires them to create more ways to provide assistance and fulfill Indigenous economic reconciliation.
Kaeding mentioned that Indigenous businesses and communities have contributed significantly to the province’s resource sector, particularly in uranium mining at the Athabasca Basin and the forestry industry, where substantial investments are being made in these two key areas.
He added that the agriculture and tech sectors are other areas where we must see more Indigenous engagement, with the latter growing exponentially, which could give Indigenous businesses and communities more opportunities.
“We will see a lot of Indigenous engagement and participation in the renewable energy sector. We discussed the Seven Stars project, and we're providing a significant loan guarantee to support Indigenous communities in participating in the natural energy sector. You will also see significant investment in the oil and gas sector. I think those are all key areas you'll see further development,” said Kaeding.
“This is exciting. It's a good indication of where our economy is headed in this province and, ultimately, who will participate in that economy. With the trade shows and the diversity of businesses, I think you've seen from the interest here today that Indigenous communities and Métis communities will be a big part of our growing economy. What you're going to see from an event like developing synergies and strategic alliances is that they're going to be able to develop the resources that we've got in this province with that much more efficiency.”
