Local municipalities and First Nation governments embarking on economic development initiatives can now access up to $10,000 for their projects thanks to the new SREDA Regional Economic Development Revitalization Grant. Designed to support the economy of the Saskatoon Region, the program will invest $30,000 to help communities foster new business and growth opportunities.
“Communities in the Saskatoon Region play a key role in Saskatchewan’s economic recovery and growth,” said Alex Fallon, SREDA President and CEO. “The Regional Economic Development Revitalization Grant recognizes and seeks to support that role. Whether it’s bolstering reconciliation initiatives or moving forward on a strategic plan for a municipality, revitalization will help ensure we build a thriving future together.”
SREDA will contribute 75% of the total project cost, up to $10,000. Projects submitted to the program for consideration should align with one of SREDA’s four fundamental areas of economic development: Business Growth, Entrepreneurship, Regional Collaboration and Indigenous Economic Reconciliation.
To be eligible for a grant, applicants must be a Municipality or First Nation government located in the Saskatoon Region and be a SREDA Regional Member at the time the funds are dispersed.
Eligible projects include:
- Regional Partnerships & Co-operation
- Business Attraction & Investment Marketing
- Planning & Feasibility Studies
- Strategic & Long Term Planning
- Reconciliation Initiatives
- Economic Inclusion Plans
- Water & Wastewater Studies
- Main Street Revitalization
- Culture & Tourism Initiatives
Ineligible projects include ongoing operational costs (salary, food & beverage, utilities, and rent, etc.); municipal equipment such as graders, mowers or computers; and road repairs. Preference may be given to projects that have not commenced, although projects that began after September 1st, 2020 are eligible to apply.
Applications open January 11th and are due by February 2nd at 11:59 p.m. Recipients will be announced on February 9th.
