View this email online

Thank You Delegates, Presenters, and Partners! 

Our first virtual forum was an interactive success thanks to your contributions. 

Bill Stainton opened the event with a focus on innovation. Major takeaway "innovation can be achieved by connecting the dots". This theme was reinforced throughout the day.

We heard from members managing chambers of commerce, tourism organizations, BID's and economic development organizations. In order to be sustainable given limited human and financial capacity, we may need to connect the dots and innovate in how we deliver these services in rural Saskatchewan.

Won't you be my neighbour, a panel hosted by our partner the Saskatchewan Indigenous Economic Development Network emphasized opportunities for social and economic engagement with our Indigenous neighbours.  More connections to be made......

Future IQ CEO David Beurle pointed to a dramatic increase in urbanization and demand for food production in Canada. Making connections between communities ie: a localized network or coalition in the same trading area, may be a course of action to be pursued sooner rather than later, to harness economies of scale - and capacity.

How do we proceed?  Concise action plans versus high-level strategic reports according to John Reuter from Strong Towns. Build momentum and confidence with a series of small steps.

Recordings of the aforementioned presenters as well as our four breakouts and three pre-recorded sessions are now online and can be accessed by forum delegates here.

Welcome New Alliance Member: Humboldt & District Chamber of Commerce

The City of Warman seeking an Economic Development Officer. More here.

	Coffee and live music will attract & keep residents Join Paul Martin and special guest Nenad Bach for a unique perspective on economic development. .Watch this 10-minute interview
	Local House Launches Saskatoon and Regina now have a new online shopping option that includes delivery!  Vendors must be independent businesses. Check it out
	TreeHouse School Model may have merit as we build resilient options for communities A modular education centre blends indoor and outdoor space.Read more
	Corporate Member Profile: William Joseph  This week we are happy to profile our friends at WJ. Find out more about how they can help you shift into 2021 by checking out their services HERE.

Fireside Chats January 2021

It's not too soon to register for our three fireside chats coming up in January.

• January 13 Economic Outlook with Pierre Cleroux, chief economist with the BDC, moderated by leading business commentator Paul Martin
• January 20, A New Economy with Carol Ann Hilton, Founder & CEO Indigenomics Institute, moderated by Heather Exner-Pirot, SIEDN 
• January 27,  Managing vs Leading, What we need from community leaders in 2021 with author and governance guru George Cuff. 

Fractionation 101 Workshop  February 25

Look for online registration and an expanded event description this month. Targeted to entrepreneurs and communities interested in building agri-value start-ups.