Economic development in northwest Saskatchewan must be led by the people who live, work, and raise their families in northern communities, according to organizers preparing for the region’s first-ever economic summit.
Speaking ahead of the inaugural Northwest Saskatchewan Economic Development Summit taking place on Thursday, in Buffalo Narrows, organizer Candice White emphasized that long-term regional success relies on local leadership and collaboration across sectors.
“The future of the Northwest should be shaped by the people who live there, work there, raise families,” White said. “And when communities, industry, and governments work together, we can turn our local ideas and our dreams into real opportunities.”
The event, which has been in development for much of 2026, aims to bring together northern leaders, industry representatives, educational institutions, businesses, and community organizations from across health and housing.
White says bringing organizations around health and housing to an economic summit will provide a holistic approach and will aim to address barriers.
“Economic development can also mean wellness and the benefits that happen for our people that way,” she explained, pointing to a morning panel focused on housing, healthcare, and education.
The summit will also highlight key sectors driving regional expansion, including mining and Indigenous tourism.
White noted that tourism remains one of the area’s largest untapped opportunities.
“Indigenous tourism as a whole is one of the fastest growing industries in Canada currently.”
She says tourism in the northwest is about “legacy, it’s about cultural preservation, it’s about getting our own people back on the land.”
Meanwhile, uranium exploration and mining projects continue to expand across northern Saskatchewan. White says there is a “big opportunity” in that sector and she hopes everyone can “work together.”
As many people will be gathering in Buffalo Narrows on Thursday, White hopes the summit will serve as a launchpad for lasting partnerships across the region rather than a single day of conversation.
“We want people to leave with stronger connections, clearer priorities, and next steps that can be taken together and on our own,” White said.
(TOP PHOTO – Candice White – photo provided)