The Saskatoon Open Door Society (SODS) and Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce have entered into a new partnership to help newcomer entrepreneurs and job seekers build successful futures in Saskatoon’s business community.

Through a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the two organizations have formalized their intent to work closely together on an initiative designed to better connect local businesses with Saskatoon’s growing newcomer population. Central to this collaboration is the creation of a dedicated role that will serve as a connector between Chamber members, the Immigrant business community and newcomer clients, helping these groups access tools, information, and opportunities.

“Saskatoon’s newcomer entrepreneurs and job seekers are already contributing in a big way to our local economy,” said Jason Aebig, CEO of the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce. “This partnership is about building stronger connections—making sure newcomers have access to the right people, resources, and opportunities to grow their businesses and helping local employers tap into a broader pool of talent.”

This partnership will focus on several key activities, including:

• Establishing a Newcomer Business Office to support immigrant entrepreneurs as they navigate regulations, licensing, and the business landscape in Saskatoon and Saskatchewan.
• Building employment connections between Chamber members and skilled newcomers, with an emphasis on filling local workforce gaps.
  
  
• Coordinating training sessions and networking events to provide newcomer business owners and job seekers with the tools and relationships they need to thrive.
  
  

"At SODS, we see the potential of every newcomer who walks through our doors,” said Ali Abukar, CEO of the Saskatoon Open Door Society. “Through our partnership with the Chamber, we’re turning that potential into opportunity, helping newcomers build businesses, careers, and community."

By helping local businesses hire job-ready newcomers and supporting immigrant entrepreneurs with targeted resources, this initiative is expected to address labour shortages, foster small business growth, and enhance innovation. It also aims to strengthen long-term success by creating deeper ties between newcomers and Saskatoon’s business community.

The two organizations are now working together to secure funding and prepare for the implementation of this initiative. Community engagement, outreach to employers, and recruitment for the connector role will follow in the months ahead.

This partnership marks a meaningful step toward a more inclusive and resilient Saskatoon—one where newcomers have the tools and support to succeed, and local businesses benefit from a stronger, more diverse talent pool.

For more information contact:

Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce
Margot Orr-Stevenson
Director of Issues and Government Relations
Phone: 306-664-0701
Email: margot@saskatoonchamber.com

Saskatoon Open Door Society
Ahmad Majid   
Fund Development and Communications Manager
Phone: 306-653-4464 (ext 234)
Email: manager.development@sods.sk.ca 

About the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber is Saskatoon’s voice for business and biggest business network, representing community-minded leaders who want the best for their city. Learn more at saskatoonchamber.com or follow on social media using handle @TheChamberYXE.

About Saskatoon Open Door Society

The Saskatoon Open Door Society (SODS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the settlement and integration of newcomers to Canada. Since 1981, we have helped thousands of refugees and immigrants build new lives in Saskatoon by providing settlement services, language training, employment support, community connections, youth and family programs, childcare services, and cultural bridging services. Guided by the values of inclusion, respect, and empowerment, SODS works to create a welcoming community where newcomers can thrive and contribute to the social, economic, and cultural life of our city. Learn more at www.sods.sk.ca.