New Report Confirms Indigenous Participation Strengthens Saskatchewan’s Economy

A new report released by the Indigenous Manufacturing and Contracting Network (IMCN) confirms what Indigenous communities and businesses have long known: when Indigenous peoples are meaningfully included in the economy, the benefits extend far beyond individual projects—to families, communities, and future generations.

The report finds that Indigenous economic activity in Saskatchewan’s manufacturing and construction sectors generated $2.6 billion in total output and supported more than 5,100 full-time equivalent jobs in 2022. Indigenous-owned businesses were also shown to create stronger local employment outcomes and retain more economic value within the province.

However, the findings also highlight persistent gaps. Indigenous employment remains below population parity, Indigenous businesses continue to face barriers accessing capital and procurement opportunities, and too often Indigenous involvement is treated as a checkbox rather than a pathway to real economic self-determination.

“The data confirms what Indigenous Nations and businesses have been saying for years—meaningful Indigenous participation strengthens economies and communities,” says Rebecca Kragnes, Vice Chair of IMCN.