The Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, today announced federal support for five performing arts and tourism initiatives across Saskatchewan, totaling $670,000. The funding, provided through PrairiesCan under the Prairies Performing Arts Initiative (PPAI) and the Tourism Growth Program (TGP), aims to strengthen the province’s cultural and tourism sectors while driving long-term economic growth.
Supported projects include a French-language theatre troupe’s audience growth strategy, upgrades to a rural resort to enable year-round tourism, enhancements to historic Cree Nation sites to boost Indigenous tourism, the creation of an outdoor art and cultural garden at a major gallery, and the expansion of a lakeside music festival to attract more visitors. These strategic investments are expected to generate approximately 17 jobs, employ local trades, and enhance tourism offerings throughout the province.
Minister Olszewski emphasized the growing appeal of Saskatchewan as a travel destination: “Saskatchewan’s beauty is drawing more people in, and that’s showing up in Canada’s growing tourism numbers. Visitors are spending time in communities and supporting local shops. Our support helps communities make the most of that momentum.”
Echoing this, Secretary of State for Rural Development Buckley Belanger highlighted the broader economic impact: “When people come to Saskatchewan for a festival, a show, or to learn our stories, they’re also filling hotel rooms, eating in local restaurants, and supporting jobs for artists, tradespeople, and small businesses. These projects mean more chances for Saskatchewan communities — big and small — to welcome visitors, share who we are, and build a stronger local economy for the long term.”
Beneficiaries of the funding expressed their gratitude and outlined the significance of the support. Lina Ouaakarrouch, Co-Executive Director of La Troupe Du Jour, noted that the funding will enhance marketing, philanthropy, and audience engagement for francophone theatre across the province. Kevin Seesequasis, Director for Community and Tourism Development at Beardy’s and Okemasis’ Cree Nation, said the support allows the community to restore historic sites like Assiwiyin and the Battle of Duck Lake with care and accuracy, sharing their stories with visitors through Pêmiska Tourism.
Over the past year, Canada has seen record growth in tourism, with revenues reaching nearly $60 billion between May and August—a 6% increase year over year—demonstrating the province’s potential to attract both domestic and international visitors. Saskatchewan’s diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and talented performers continue to position it as a unique and vibrant destination.
