Conference Co-Hosts

Canadian Rural Revitalization Foundation

The Canadian Rural Revitalization Foundation (CRRF) was established in 1989 to contribute to the revitalization and sustainability of rural Canada through collaborative research for rural leaders in the community, private sector, and in all levels of government. CRRF works to create credible insights and to improve our understanding of issues and opportunities that are of common interest to rural residents across Canada. Knowledge and better understanding are the fundamental pillars for the welfare of rural communities and environments. More details on the Foundation visit www.crrf.ca.

Saskatchewan Economic Development Alliance

The Saskatchewan Economic Development Alliance (SEDA) has fostered community and economic development in Saskatchewan communities for over 34 years. SEDA is a province-wide network honouring partnerships with businesses and organizations who share a passion for developing a better and more resilient Saskatchewan. Their true role is building community capacity, by providing the proper tools so communities and regions may guide their own future. Seeking to influence and support best practice, while raising the standards of local economic development through learning and resource provision, SEDA offers a range of programs and services including research, coaching, training, special events and community development programs. The alliance also endeavours to fill gaps in program and service delivery within the province. SEDA is committed to inclusion and the process of reconciliation as guided by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada. Our governance team and staff work to enhance relationships with Indigenous leaders and where possible, support implementation of the TRC Calls to Action. For more information on the SEDA visit www.seda.sk.ca

University of Saskatchewan

The University of Saskatchewan, situated in the vibrant city of Saskatoon on Treaty Six territory and the traditional homeland of the Métis, and on one of Canada’s most beautiful campuses, is grounded in the character of a dynamic, forward-looking province. We have a well-deserved reputation for creativity, collaboration, and achievement. Supported by an innovative, energetic faculty, staff, student, and alumni community, and by a research infrastructure unique in Canada, we deliver across Saskatchewan and beyond one of Canada’s widest arrays of academic and professional programs.

The university displays remarkable resilience and a commitment to problem solving, attributes drawn from our prairie roots and from the outstanding contributions by members of our community from around the world. Our university’s unique spirit has transformed the lives of those who have experienced it. For more information on the University of Saskatchewan visit www.usask.ca.

Conference Partners

Continuing Education and Development for Nurses, University of Saskatchewan

Continuing Education and Development for Nurses (CEDN) identifies, develops, coordinates, delivers and evaluates education for nurses and other health care providers that work in Saskatchewan and beyond. Our programs promote lifelong learning, the maintenance of competencies and quality of care and are accessible to professionals throughout their careers. For more information on Continuing Education and Development for Nurses visit: https://nursing.usask.ca/programs/cedn.php

Cooperatives First

Co-operatives First is a business development organization focused on increasing awareness and understanding of the co-op business model in rural and Indigenous communities across western Canada. Our goal is to help groups and community leaders build new businesses, grow local economies and support community development. For more information on Cooperatives First visit https://www.cooperativesfirst.com.

Health Sciences, University of Saskatchewan

Health Sciences supports our University leaders in advancing health, locally and globally, through excellence in interprofessional education and practice, interdisciplinary life and health sciences discovery, and committed engagement with stakeholders. Visit their website for more information: For more information on Health Sciences visit: http://healthsciences.usask.ca/

Johnson-Shoyama School of Public Policy, University of Saskatchewan

The Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy (JSGS) has swiftly become one of Canada’s leading policy schools for educating graduate students and public servants interested in and devoted to advancing public value. The JSGS is devoted to making an impact on issues affecting Canadians and the global community.  For more information on the Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy visit: www.schoolofpublicpolicy.sk.ca

Saskatchewan First Nations Economic Development Network

Established in 2012, the Saskatchewan First Nations Economic Development Network (SFNEDN) was created organically by key First Nations economic development leaders who shared common goals and a vision for First Nations economic development in Saskatchewan.  Today, SFNEND acts as a centralized support organization facilitating better  outcomes for First Nations economic development officers and economic development corporations.  Over the past five years, the SFNEDN has offered research, blogs and newsletters, while delivering conferences, workshops and networking events.  In 2016, the SFNEDN had the honour of hosting the World Indigenous Business Forum which earned the SFNEDN recognition throughout Canada and across the world. For more information on SFNEDN visit www.sfnedn.com

School of Environment and Sustainability, University of Saskatchewan

The School of Environment and Sustainability (SENS) is an international model of excellence and destination site for interdisciplinary, problem-oriented and experience-based graduate and undergraduate learning for issues dealing with environment and sustainability. For more information on the School of Environment and Sustainability visit: https://sens.usask.ca/