One of Saskatchewan’s new Enterprise Regions is the Prairie Innovation Enterprise Region (PIER). Its mandate is to assist the region to increase business and industry competitiveness, realize economic potential, and compete globally. 

PIER is a not-for-profit entity, and represents the diverse economic development interests of east central Saskatchewan.  As such, it will have representation from regional economic stakeholders in key sectors, community and other organizations, and will provide the focus and leadership that is necessary to build high performance regions.

The boundaries of PIER encompass 22,200 square km, 28 rural municipalities, and over 34,000 residents from Wakaw to Govan, from Wynyard to Watrous, and communities in between.  An initial annual budget of approximately $437,000 is anticipated, with $237,000 provided by core funding through Enterprise Saskatchewan & Trade, and an additional $200,000 provided by matching grants through membership and project funding.

The delivery of core services include regional and community marketing; business attraction, retention, and expansion; as well as community economic development with a focus on addressing housing and labour shortages. Sylvia Waterer is the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer. She is originally from Saskatchewan, and brings with her diverse industry sector and entrepreneurial experience. Some of her immediate priorities will focus on establishing partnerships between industry and communities to address housing and labour shortages. 

PIER has entered into a partnership with Advanced Education, Employment and Labour, and has in place an Immigrant Settlement services Coordinator, Janine Hart. PIER will add two new positions to its organization over the next month including an Economic Development Officer and an Industry Liaison.

A PIER Membership Kit will identify benefits associated with being a member, including international marketing, industry research, competitive analysis, and opportunities for matching-fund partnerships. 

Memberships are available at:

• $200 for municipalities and business members with greater than 50 employees
• $50 for non-profits, individuals, and business members with less than 50 employees

For further information contact:

Prairie Innovation Enterprise Region (PIER)
805 - 8th Avenue, Court House
Box 3430
Humboldt SK
Canada S0K 2A0
Administration phone: 306 682-4737
Fax: 306 682-4739
Email: business@pi-er.ca