Small Business Week highlights Estevan’s entrepreneurial spirit – DiscoverEstevan.com

As Saskatchewan marks Small Business Week, Estevan’s Community Development Officer Becca Foord says local interest in entrepreneurship is on the rise.

Foord said in recent months she has noticed more people reaching out for guidance on how to start a business in the community.

“In the past six months, I usually have about a call a week or somebody stops in once a week just asking about some resources and how they can start a business,” she said. “I do think there’s some interest, and in the next year or so we’re going to have quite a few more businesses opening in town.”

According to 2024 statistics, there are 645 small businesses operating in Estevan. The largest group includes 319 businesses with between one and four employees. Foord said those are often classified as micro businesses, but they make up a significant portion of Saskatchewan’s small business sector.

When it comes to support for entrepreneurs, Foord said there are many local resources available, which can sometimes feel overwhelming for those just starting out.

She pointed to the Southeast Tech Hub, the Saskatchewan Startup Institute, and Community Futures Sunrise as valuable resources for business owners and those looking to get started.

“There are so many resources, so my suggestion would be to come talk to me, and I can point you in the right direction,” she said. “The Government of Saskatchewan website also has information for starting a business, but starting at my office is usually the best step.”

Foord said that while Estevan has a strong business base, there are still underserved areas.

“According to Statistics Canada, public administration is one of the least represented sectors in Estevan,” she said. “Healthcare services are also an area where we could use more small business support. Things like nurse practitioners starting offices or specialized health services could really benefit the community.”

The City of Estevan also offers a number of local incentives to help small businesses grow. These include a new or growing business tax incentive, which provides a three-to-five-year tax break for new businesses or those moving into new or existing facilities, as well as a storefront upgrade incentive that supports businesses looking to improve their signage or building front.

Foord said small businesses are a vital part of Estevan’s economy and community.

“It’s incredible that we live in a community with so many small businesses,” she said. “We always talk about our large industries, which are really important, but small businesses are equally important. When you support a small business, your money stays in the community and goes back into local programs, fundraisers, and sports teams.”