Saskatchewan Polytechnic Launches Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre
March 26, 2026 – Exciting news from Saskatchewan Polytechnic! The institution has unveiled its new Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre at the Moose Jaw campus, a dedicated hub aimed at igniting innovation and fostering business growth throughout the province.
This centre builds on Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s tradition of applied research and career-ready education. It aims not just to equip entrepreneurs and industry partners with necessary tools and mentorship, but to create a dynamic environment where bold ideas can flourish. The centre will offer a mix of workshops, one-on-one support, and applied research collaborations, all designed to connect academic insights with real-world opportunities.
A Collaborative Space for Innovation
Spencer Nikkel, the director of the centre, emphasizes the importance of collaboration: “The Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre creates a space where students, entrepreneurs, faculty, and industry can collaborate, experiment, and grow.” He highlights its role in supporting Saskatchewan’s economy and enhancing local talent retention.
A Strategic Initiative
This centre is part of a broader strategic initiative by the Faculty of Business and Management. It serves as a province-wide platform focused on nurturing entrepreneurial development. Backed by experienced faculty and integrated into Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s extensive applied research network, the centre is well-positioned to assist businesses in innovating and scaling their operations.
Dr. Larry Rosia, president and CEO of Sask Polytech, points out: “We have an award-winning applied research team. The Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre builds on this great work, helping companies collaborate with our researchers to create new solutions and products that drive business growth.”
Activities to Foster Networking and Learning
In addition to its primary services, the centre plans to host a variety of events throughout the year. Networking opportunities, workshops, competitions, and community events will all encourage idea-sharing and foster a sense of momentum within the local innovation ecosystem.
Kristen Craig, dean of the Faculty of Business and Management, adds, “The centre is a strong example of applied learning in action. Students will tackle real-world challenges to develop solutions that create value for both businesses and communities.” She emphasizes the importance of work-integrated learning experiences, a focus that will be enhanced through this initiative.
Launching the Sask Polytech Startup Challenge
The centre’s first major initiative is the Sask Polytech Startup Challenge. This mentorship and pitch competition is designed for early-stage entrepreneurs and students, helping them transform ideas into viable business ventures. The cohort, which has reached full capacity, includes a diverse mix of students and community entrepreneurs, ranging from technology and trades to leadership coaching and equine therapy. This showcases the creativity and economic potential emerging from Saskatchewan.
Participants will have the chance to pitch their ideas in a culminating event at the Town N Country Mall in Moose Jaw on April 16.
Applied Research Benefits for Partners
Sask Polytech extends significant benefits to its applied research partners, providing access to modern facilities, faculty expertise, development funding, and a robust industry network. Collaborative research facilitates the identification of new opportunities and allows companies to solve common challenges, all while contributing to economic growth and job creation in Saskatchewan.
The centre joins a lineup of established research centres at Sask Polytech, such as the Centre for Health Research, Innovation & Scholarship (CHRIS), the Digital Integration Centre of Excellence (DICE), and the Sustainability Led Integrated Centres of Excellence (SLICE).
Discover Your Next Big Idea
As Saskatchewan Polytechnic champions innovation and collaboration through its newly established Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre, entrepreneurs and students alike are encouraged to explore how they can leverage this resource to support their next big idea.
For more information, visit the Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre.
