Small businesses are the backbone of Saskatchewan's economy

October 20, 2026

Media Release, Gov't SK

Key points from this story:

• 156,850 small businesses in Saskatchewan
• 98.8% of all businesses are small
• Small businesses employ 30% of workforce
• Over $8.3 billion in wages provided
• Small business tax rate at 1%
• Small Business Week runs October 19-25

The Government of Saskatchewan is proud to recognize October 19 to 25, 2026, as Small Business Week. To celebrate the impact of the sector, the Ministry of Trade and Export Development has released this year's Saskatchewan Small Business Profile. The report highlights the important contribution of Saskatchewan's small businesses to employment, economic activity and communities across the province.

"Saskatchewan's entrepreneurial spirit is strong," Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding said. "Our small businesses create jobs, support families and contribute to the economic vitality of communities throughout Saskatchewan. Small Business Week is an opportunity to recognize the hard work and determination of our entrepreneurs and the important role they play in building a strong and prosperous province."

In Canada a small business is defined as having fewer than 50 employees. In 2025, they accounted for 98.8 per cent of all businesses in the province. They employed about 30 per cent of Saskatchewan's workforce and provided over $8.3 billion in wages and salaries.

Saskatchewan has created a competitive business environment with low taxes, including a permanent small business tax rate of one per cent, and streamlined regulations to ensure the success of small businesses. The province has also increased the small business rate income threshold from $500,000 to $600,000, making it one of the highest in Canada.

"Small businesses are the heart of Saskatchewan's economy," Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce CEO Prabha Ramaswamy said. "They employ our neighbours, serve our communities, and keep our towns and cities across the province strong. During Small Business Week, the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce congratulates and thanks the owners and employees who are building this province, one business at a time."

Small Business Week is an initiative by the Business Bank of Canada to highlight the importance of entrepreneurship in growing the economy. In Saskatchewan, small businesses provide vital products and services that are integral to building vibrant and sustainable communities. They operate in all areas of the economy, including key sectors such as agriculture, mining, and manufacturing.

For more information on the province's small business sector, read Saskatchewan's Small Business Profile 2025.