BusinessView Saskatoon October November 2016

October/November 2016

Saskatoon’s Civic Election is October 26th

Saskatoon Civic Election 2016 Business Votes YXE

IS IT YOUR MISSION? Our staff works on the ground and out in the fields. They work hard and they work long hours. We are all doing everything we can to make sure they come home safe.

Safety is part of everything we do.

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Visit www.worksafesask.ca Deadline is October 31, 2016

Table of Contents

October/November 2016

Featured Articles President’s View Pg. 4

City Council includes 11 votes

Special Issue: Election 2016 Pg. 5 Setting the path for the future of the city

Broadway BID: Attracting business to Broadway Pg. 6 Downtown YXE: Downtown defines a city

Pg. 7

Saskatoon & Region Homebuilders Association: Growing Saskatoon Pg. 8 NSBA: Here’s a question for you... Pg. 12 Riversdale: the place to be Pg. 13 Sutherland BID: investment and growth by City spurring development Pg. 13 City Hall in downtown Saskatoon. Image: Grant Romancia Photography.

Tourism Saskatoon: the business of travel Pg. 14 SRAR: Saskatoon Land Bank a lobbying success Pg. 18

BUSINESSView­is a bimonthly publication of the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce 104-202 4th Avenue North, Saskatoon, SK S7K 0K1 Phone: (306) 244-2151 Fax: (306) 244-8366 Email: chamber@saskatoonchamber.com Website: www.saskatoonchamber.com Twitter: @stoonchamber Feedback on articles is invited, but views expressed in BUSINESS View are those of contributors and are not necessarily endorsed by, or are policy of, the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce or its Board of Directors. We encourage you to support the business leaders whose names and products you see advertised in this issue as well as throughout our entire membership. The Board reserves the right to edit submissions.

STAFF

Kent Smith-Windsor, Executive Director Derek Crang, Sales & Membership Director Terry Lawrence, Administrator Roz Macala, Executive Secretary Kevin Meldrum, Marketing Director Linda Saunders, Bookkeeper Terri Eger, Events and Communications Co-ordinator Czarina Catambing, Committee Operations Intern Meghan Johnson, Committee Operations Intern

Canadian Publications Mail Agreement No. 40052085 Return Undeliverable Addresses to: Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce 104-202 4th Avenue North, Saskatoon, SK S7K 0K1 Publisher: Kevin Meldrum

Cover Image by Grant Romancia

businessview@saskatoonchamber.com

Advertising Sales: Derek Crang

dcrang@saskatoonchamber.com

Writer: Terri Eger Photographer: Grant Romancia BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016 3

President’s View

City Council includes 11 votes What to keep in mind during the 2016 Saskatoon Civic Election As the municipal election approaches, it’s important for voters throughout Saskatoon to become informed.

During the election campaign the spotlight is often turned Jason Yochim to the mayoral 2016/17 President candidates. While Greater Saskatoon the position of Chamber of Commerce mayor is very important, the mayor is only one of the voices on council.

Saskatoon City Council consists of 11 spots: a mayor and 10 councillors from wards throughout the city. Each councillor has a vote on issues brought to the table and plays a key role in shaping our community.

It’s important for citizens to get to know the candidates in their ward and make an informed decision as each councillor will impact the growth of the community.

As the leader of the council, the mayor has a key role. A quality leader must have the respect of the rest of council and have the ability to deal with conflict. In making your decision on who to vote for, ask yourself how influential that person is as a leader. Do they have the respect of council? Do they have conflict resolution skills? How have they demonstrated leadership previously? A mayor should have a strong voice and be able to lead council to make informed decisions that will positively shape the community.

As citizens of Saskatoon we have much to be thankful for. Quality recreation facilities, an attractive downtown core and a healthy business climate all work together to create a healthy, growing community. Successful businesses in the community provide employment, add to the tax base and make donations to public projects. By working to create a strong business sector in Saskatoon we are able to enjoy amenities such as parks and recreation facilities and even the Children’s Hospital. Many non-profit organizations are the direct benefactors of the benevolence of successful private companies and individuals who reside in our community. In the absence of a business friendly client or a community that is not experiencing growth, businesses will become more conservative when it comes to benevolence.

I believe that a community is either in a state of growth or retraction but never neutral. We don’t have to look far to see cities that are experiencing the challenges of recession. Businesses are not the only ones who suffer in challenging economic times.

Those who are benefactors of the generosity of successful companies also suffer. The City of Saskatoon has experienced significant growth in recent years. While there are some inconveniences that come with growth, those can be managed under the right leadership.

Safer communities, programs, efficient services, up to date infrastructure, schools and recreational facilities are possible with a strong and growing tax base. It is important to understand how the candidates in your ward plan to use your tax dollars to provide effective and efficient services without defaulting to tax increases. The

challenge for council, in my opinion, is to take the existing tax base and find creative solutions to maximize efficiency within the existing structure.

In this special “Business Votes YXE” issue of BusinessView Saskatoon, we have asked various business organizations around Saskatoon what is important to their members and what policies their focused on this election. Great cities have strong and stable business communities, and we should keep in mind when casting our votes that a healthy business community benefits all citizens.

I encourage you to do your research, learn what drives the candidates in your ward as well as those running for mayor. We’ve compiled a list of candidate video responses to our short questionnaire on our website, Saskatoonchamber.com/vote. Here you can see what the candidates in your ward said (or, didn’t say) about making Saskatoon the best place to live, work, and grow a business in the country.

By voting for a council that has a vision and a plan for Saskatoon, our city will continue to experience positive growth under the right leadership. In closing, be sure to get out on October 26th and vote. Those who choose not to vote have no right to complain about the leadership they get.

Jason Yochim, President 2016/17 Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce

2016-17 Board of Directors for the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce President Jason Yochim - Saskatoon Region Association of REALTORS®. 1st Vice-President Kelly Bode - WMCZ Lawyers & Mediators.

2nd Vice-President, Finance Peggie Koenig - Koenig & Associates. Past President Tanya Knight - MNP LLP Chair, Governance Bill Cooper - PotashCorp. Paul Labbe - Stantec Inc. Silvia Martini - Interlink Research Inc. Linda Mason - PCL Construction Management Ltd. Deborah Meyers - Saskatchewan Polytechnic. Karl Miller - Meridian Development.

Sandra Ribeiro - Canadian Light Source Inc. Chris Sicotte - Affinity Credit Union. Sanj Singh - Lighthouse Management Co. Brian Skanderbeg - Silver Standard Resources Inc. Trevor Thiessen - Redekop Manufacturing. Chris Woodland - MacPherson, Leslie and Tyerman LLP.

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BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016

Special Issue - Election 2016

Saskatoon Civic Election 2016 Setting the path By forTerri theEger future of the city

By the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce

Photo: Grant Romancia.

During an election many issues are discussed and debated while the citizens decide in whom to place their trust. Many topics of current concern will overshadow the longer term policy directions that set the tone and path for future prospects in our community.

This issue of BusinessView Saskatoon contains articles from many of our partners in the city who help contribute to a healthy, strong, and growing business sector to the benefit of all citizens. These organizations have stated what’s been important for them for their communities, and what issues to keep in mind when casting your vote in the Civic Election on October 26th.

Our Chamber has developed nine ideas that we believe will help improve the future prospects of our City. These ideas form the core of our efforts to inform City Policy matters not only for one or two years, but to set a direction to help build the prospects and confidence that our City needs to be able to build a great Saskatoon.

Let us be clear. We believe that the best way to build a great Saskatoon is to ensure that our city has a policy structure

that enables our business community to successfully compete, grow and create careers for our people. That success is not a foregone conclusion. Sound, long-term policy directions that encourage businesses to take risks and pursue opportunity greatly improve our City’s ability to create prosperity and help families build lives in Saskatoon.

Saskatoon is a very good city and it can indeed be great.

The Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce resolutely believes that the future prospects for Saskatoon are bright and that our businesses have the talent, resources, and potential to build one of the best and most exciting cities in North America. Potential is not the same as reality and a great deal of effort and talent need to be applied to a policy framework to reach that potential.

Please take a few moments to go over our positions and ask your candidates their views on these policies. Once informed, we strongly encourage you to VOTE. Visit our site at www.saskatoonchamber.com/vote to find out more about your local candidates, and how they responded to our video questionnaire.

The nine points our board supports are:

1. Grow non-residential assessment per capita. This provides future career prospects for our residents and strengthens our community’s future.

2. Continue the municipal productivity agenda. This will keep the cost of government in Saskatoon affordable while improving services.

3. Limit operating expenditure growth to population growth and inflation and limit the City of Saskatoon employment growth to one percent below the population growth rate. By controlling operating expenditures, the city can continue to invest in infrastructure while keeping taxes affordable for everyone.

4. Stimulate development within the municipal electrical grid zone. Municipal electrical profits help reduce property tax rates in Saskatoon.

5. Reduce the non-residential tax premium from 175% of residential rates to 143% of residential rates over a 16 year period, and work Continued on Page 9...

BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016 5

Business Votes YXE

Attracting business to Broadway

By Terri Eger for the Broadway Business Improvement District

Making the Broadway District a destination is the key focus for the Broadway Business Improvement District. Heading into the municipal election, members of the Broadway BID have a few key issues they’d like candidates to be aware of.

“Our challenge is that some city planners still consider Broadway to be a thoroughfare.

We want it to be a destination,” said Greg McKee, co-owner of Bike Doctor. “We want people to slow down, see our signs, see our specials and stop in to visit us on Broadway.”

DeeAnn Mercier, Executive Director of the Broadway BID agrees.

“Perhaps lowering the speed limit and putting in longer crosswalk times would allow people time to slow down and take a look around,” she said.

With two schools and a number of churches in the area there is often a great deal of foot traffic on Broadway. A slower pace would make things more safe and more enjoyable, according to the Broadway BID. While construction is still taking place on side streets in the area, Broadway itself has been resurfaced after a complete infrastructure replacement. As a business owner, McKee said having the improvements completed is a “huge relief.” As with any construction project, the project was not without its challenges for local business owners. However, many businesses took the opportunity to renovate their own buildings at the same time.

“Some did little renos while things were

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BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016

Chris Hendrickson Photography

a little slower,” said Mercier. “This would be a great time for the city to do a refresh on the street furniture in the area.” Things like benches, artwork and even the lighting are in need of some sprucing up.

“Lighting can play a key part in keeping an area attractive and safe,” said Mercier.

Broadway has long been known for being an interesting part of the city that welcomes people of all ages to visit and spend time.

“We want the visitor experience to be consistent and good. We need things for them to look at and things that make the area more interesting,” said McKee. “Ensuring that there is funding in place for public art displays is important.”

Plinths, designated kiosks to display art, are strategically placed throughout the area. In the past the city has given artists an honorarium to borrow their art work and display it for a set period of time. The art pieces were rotated regularly to keep the area interesting and bring visitors back time and again. For some time these areas have sat vacant and it’s something McKee would like to see rectified.

In keeping with the idea that time and people can slow down a little in the area in order to experience everything Broadway has to offer, McKee would like to see the area become more bike friendly.

“We have a lot of people cycling in the area and although some cycling lanes have been established we’re really not welcoming to cyclists,” he said. By improving the bike lanes, lowering the speed limit and adding bike stands he believes the area will become more and more attractive to cyclists.

“Broadway is an interesting area. It’s a little different from other areas in the city in that a lot of our customers will access the area by walking and cycling,” said McKee. “We want to make sure the city understands that we want those families to come down and feel safe.”

There is a great heritage element to the Broadway area and that is something Mercier would like to see continue.

“I’m concerned that when buildings are torn down they are often transitioned into long-term parking. We want people to have destinations to come to,” she said. “I think we need to encourage new building as quickly as possible so we don’t have longterm vacancies.”

Maintaining a positive business climate throughout the city is something members of the Broadway BID, Chamber of Commerce and municipal government continue to work on.

“I have faith that if this area is an interesting place to visit it will produce a good business climate,” said McKee.

Business Votes YXE

Downtown defines a city

By Downtown Saskatoon Business Improvement District

It is safe to say that downtown districts are what truly define a city.

When visiting another city for business or pleasure, visits to the downtown are typically part of those plans. The character and composition of a city is formed on the strength or weakness of its centre.

We are fortunate in Saskatoon to have a downtown that is vibrant with many attractions. Downtowns are powerful symbols for a city – they contain landmarks, distinctive features, historic places, and provide a unique sense of place. It is for this reason that cities around the world pay attention to the health of their Downtown Districts because they Tourism Saskatoon - Autumn in Downtown Saskatoon.

understand the vital role they play in building the in suburban areas may influence decisions on brand of a city. where building occurs.

So, what sets Downtown Saskatoon apart?

How can we ensure the City Centre remains We have a number of impressive key anchors. economical with developers able to afford to To name a few, we have: the Midtown Plaza build here, and competitive with suburban areas?

Saskatchewan’s premiere fashion destination, the Large capital investments are required to make Bessbourough Hotel - Saskatoon’s iconic castling suburban locations attractive with overpasses, landmark, TCU Place – Central Saskatchewan’s bridges, expanded utilities, and more roads among performing arts and convention centre and home them. Investment in the City Centre can help offset to Saskatoon’s Symphony. Remai Modern – the costs associated with suburban expansion.

Saskatchewan’s preeminent modern art gallery Density will allow for important city components is scheduled to open next year. such as improved transit, walkable neighbourhoods, In addition to these distinct anchors, Downtown efficient infrastructure usage, improvement to the Saskatoon offers an elite cultural cluster including public realm, and provide a critical mass to support live performance halls, Shakespeare on the essential uses such as grocery stores. The City of Saskatchewan, and a destination movie theatre Saskatoon does intend to balance growth in the with VIP offering. Downtown has easy access to future and the Growth Plan to Half a Million speaks the dynamic side of the riverbank – Meewasin to the need to better use its land and infrastructure trails, skating rink, urban forest, an eclectic mix assets. We need City Hall to respect the intentions of local retail and restaurant offerings, 8 hotels of the growth plan by managing their suburban with over 1,300 rooms, and year round seasonal development accordingly. festivals.

As the civic election nears, there are important 2. Residential Living issues for both those seeking office to consider as There are currently approximately 3,200 people they finalize their campaigns, and voters, when it living in Downtown Saskatoon. Even if City Park, comes to ensuring the health of our Downtown: Riversdale, and Nutana are included, the entire population of the broader City Centre area is only 1. Growing our City Efficiently about 16,000 people. Additionally, 26% of the city Unlike some cities that face geographical factors centre is comprised of surface parking. Combining about getting larger, Saskatoon has the potential these statistics paints a clear picture of opportunity ability to keep buying more land and creating to look at adding residential population to the new suburban neighbourhoods. We have land all heart of our city. Services like schools will have to around us – which is not the case in cities that be considered in order to make these areas more have become denser, which in turn helps foster attractive to families. downtown development and redevelopment.

There are projects in the works for downtown The typically much lower cost of construction such as the recently announced condominium

and hotel project at Parcel Y that are crucial to the health of the district. People living in areas take ownership of where they live – and as more people live downtown, as is happening across North America, additional amenities such as grocery stores will follow. Through zoning and land use, the City of Saskatoon plays a major role in shaping where people choose to live.

3. Who Are We? As a participating partner in achieving a great downtown, Downtown Saskatoon (formerly The Partnership) focuses its business on two key elements: Economic Development – We are in the business of promoting, shaping and enhancing Saskatoon’s downtown district as a hub for residential, retail, cultural, and business development.

Destination Marketing – We are in the business of creating, promoting and programming downtown experiences that attract Saskatoon residents and visitors from across the province, country, and world.

We recently changed our name to Downtown Saskatoon to better reflect our unique focus and character, and have a new visual identity that conveys the energy and vibe of the district. Our street banners, signage, and digital media channels were all updated to reflect the new brand. They also feature the district’s new abbreviated name: DTNYXE. We look forward to continuing to work with City Hall and the new City Council to keep Downtown issues on the forefront!

BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016 7

Growing Saskatoon

Business Votes YXE

It’s reckless to talk growth plans without discussing affordability

By Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association

“Growth” is a word we’ve been hearing a lot of throughout the Saskatoon mayoral campaign so far.

Each candidate has their own vision of what growth should look like in Saskatoon, but they all agree on one thing – the growth of Saskatoon is important, and it’s essential that the city’s leadership approach it the right way.

It’s easy to see why we, the Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association would care about growth. After all, the more people who live in Saskatoon, the more homes will be required, which is a clear benefit to those in the home building business. But why should everyone else in Saskatoon care whether we grow or not? And why can’t we just let growth happen – why do we need a “growth plan,” and why is it so important that those leading Saskatoon approach growth thoughtfully and strategically?

More than just a buzzword, growth is the driving force behind improved infrastructure, affordability, and the overall prosperity of a community. The benefits of growth have been extensively researched, and growth has consistently been shown to contribute to higher wages and an overall improved standard of living. It’s also impossible to talk about growth without addressing the concept of affordability – stricter growth regulations have been shown multiple times to contribute to less choice and higher housing costs. So the question isn’t “do

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BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016

we want growth in Saskatoon?” it’s “how can we ensure that the City of Saskatoon is allowed to grow to its full potential and maintain the most prosperous economy possible?” That is, how can we ensure that our growing community is one where people have a real choice of where to work and live, and where choice and affordability are not mutually exclusive?

Saskatoon is in a good position right now to make smart decisions about growth, as we have many larger cities to our East and West who we can look to for evidence on what works to promote the growth of a Canadian city and what doesn’t. Sky-high housing prices in Vancouver and Toronto provide us with insight as to what can happen to affordability when land-use regulation isn’t fully thought out, while bitter disputes between city administration and private developers in Winnipeg and Calgary demonstrate the importance of an open dialogue and industry consultation and collaboration during the growth plan decision-making process.

Saskatoon is a very unique city when it comes to land use regulation. In most Canadian cities, land is owned by developers who are then responsible for planning and funding the development of these communities. Where Saskatoon differs from other cities is that the City of Saskatoon, specifically Saskatoon Land, owns a large portion of the undeveloped land and actually develops this land itself, thereby competing with private developers. Neighbourhoods like Evergreen, Willow Grove, Kensington, and Hampton Village are all examples of city-developed communities where builders purchased land from the Land Division and the City of Saskatoon was responsible

for planning the community and building additional infrastructure like parks, roads, and communal meeting spaces.

Saskatoon Land’s ability to operationally affect growth makes it vitally important that careful thought be put into any land-use regulation put forth by city administration, especially since multiple studies have shown that increased land-use regulation is associated with lower rates of growth and higher home prices overall. Recently, City Council requested an internal audit on the operations of the Land Division. We applaud this decision, and look forward to seeing the results of this audit and the subsequent decisions on future Land Division operations.

We strongly believe that the best way to make good decisions about policies on growth and development is to consult industry experts, and we welcome an ongoing, open discussion from future city administration as they make decisions that impact the growth of our community.

There are many possibilities to consider when planning the growth of Saskatoon, and we’ve already seen some of them come up during the current election campaign. When evaluating these ideas, we must be careful to take into account how these ideas may affect the affordability and choice of housing in Saskatoon. For example, one idea that’s been proposed has been to consider focusing on infill development in an effort to make use of existing infrastructure while avoiding the costs of building new infrastructure.

Before that decision is made, one must ask Continued on Page 9...

GROWING SASKATOON Continued from Page 8... questions like: Do we know that the current infrastructure in our established communities is able to support new development, or would upgrades have to be made to accommodate new, higher density builds?

After added costs like demolition and infrastructure upgrades are taken into account, will it really be more affordable to build on infill land than it would be to build new developments on greenfield land?

Another idea that’s been frequently reported on is to introduce regulations that promote increased growth in core areas of the city, while limiting “sprawl” growth in outer suburbs. But that, too, comes with potential issues that need to be investigated, like: What kind of homes can be built in the city’s core, and is there a demand for these types of homes?

COVER STORY Continued from Page 4... with Chambers of Commerce across Saskatchewan to reduce the provincial property tax rate while moving to a 2 year reassessment cycle. This protects and helps grow our non-residential tax base, and improves investor confidence in Saskatoon which in turn grows business investment and creates career opportunities. The continued premium on a growing business property tax base lowers property tax rate pressure on residents over time.

6. Continue the move away from Defined Benefit Pension Plans for all municipal employees.

This reduces the future liabilities of the city while still offering high quality pensions for civic employees.

7. Reduce the property tax funded support for public transit over time. The property tax base is too narrow a base to sustainably support public transit. Federal operating fund support would help keep fares reasonable and reduce the property tax pressure.

8. Revisit the role of the land bank and municipal facilities and services on a regular basis

Will these regulations really promote growth in Saskatoon, or will they restrict choice and damage affordability by limiting the supply of homes in Saskatoon’s suburbs?

So when we talk about growth, let’s be careful to analyze each idea with a critical eye. If a growth plan succeeds in growing our population and redistributing density to different parts of the city, but takes away a home buyers’ choice of where to live or ability to afford a home, is it really a successful strategy? An effective growth plan will do more than just promote a increase in population or change from the status quo a good growth plan will promote growth in a way that also supports affordability and choice for the future population of Saskatoon.

With all of the above considered, the Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association’s key focus during this municipal

election can be summed up by the following: • It is essential that city administration work to foster growth and affordability in Saskatoon • Consultation with industry experts will be key in ensuring that Saskatoon is allowed to grow in the most economically healthy way possible With careful planning and consultation with industry experts, Saskatoon has the potential to grow into a large, diverse, economically healthy city in which to live.

We must keep in mind though, there are a lot of questions that need to be answered to make sure that Saskatoon grows in the healthiest, most affordable way possible, and as the voice of the residential construction industry in Saskatoon, we hope to assist in answering those questions.

to ensure that these municipal operations remain relevant in a rapidly evolving city. Be open to potential new approaches like risk sharing these projects.

Separate financial statements for the land bank and civic-owned and operated recreational facilities are needed as this improves transparency and helps city council make better informed decisions.

9. Continue to press/ plan for the Yellowhead Northern Gateway Bridge. This

allows for orderly infrastructure development in a growing and prosperous region.

BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016 9

Chamber Events

Annual Huskie Tailgate party Supporting Huskie football and a salute to our soldiers

On Friday, September 2nd, the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce proudly presented the Huskie Tailgate Party and BBQ in support of Huskie football with a salute to our soldiers, sponsored by Conexus Credit Union.

In what has become an annual tradition, the event featured a BBQ (sponsored by the Concorde Group) with proceeds to the “Soldier On” Fund – a charity which provides financial aid to injured and disabled individuals from the armed forces.

Thanks to Penny Reign who entertained guests throughout the afternoon on the Conexus Free Stage and E&V Finishing Carpentry for their sponsorship of the event.

Photos by Grant Romancia.

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BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016

Promotional Feature

Three simple tips to make your digital marketing more successful

By Jeannie Armstrong Postmedia Content Works

What is the No. 1 tool a business needs to compete successfully in today’s marketplace?

A recent survey conducted by the Canadian Association of Marketing Professionals highlights the importance of a responsive website.

The Canadian Marketers 2016 Outlook Survey, which questioned more than 200 marketing professionals, revealed that the “No. 1 activity contributing to marketing success is a properly built and maintained website” (88.7 %), followed by social media marketing (79.8%) and content marketing (78.1%).

The survey also revealed that 83 per cent of Canadian companies plan to put more effort into digital marketing this year than they did in 2015.

At the core of every successful digital marketing initiative is a company’s website.

In this digital age, your website is your business card. A quality website attracts the consumer’s interest, building trust and confidence. Websites with outdated content or that take forever to load won’t merit a second look.

But how can a business owner tell if a website is really doing its job? What factors determine whether a business is thriving or merely surviving on the Internet?

There are three simple tips that a business owner can follow to assess and boost the impact the company’s website is having in the marketplace.

1. Do a Google search of your company’s name. How many Google pages

does it take before the company website comes up in a search? To be truly effective, your company’s website should appear within the top five results. If the website is not positioned correctly, your business could be losing out on hundreds, if not thousands, of potential customers.

What factors can advance a website’s search ranking to the top? Websites with great SEO (Search Engine Optimization) enjoy better placement by search engines like Google.

When determining search engine placement, Google considers several factors, including the content on a company’s website. Is it fresh and effective? If it’s not quality content, Google will push the website down in its search rankings.

2. Also vital in achieving an ideal score is how “responsive” a website is. It’s imperative to have a website that loads easily onto all devices, with pages that change automatically depending on the size of the users’ screens – from desktop to smartphones to tablets. If a website is not mobile-friendly, Google will rank that website lower than websites that are responsive.

Studies show that if a website takes longer than four seconds to load, one in four people will abandon the site and go to a competing website that is responsive. Offer a great user experience, and you’ll be rewarded by Google and your customers.

To tell whether or not your company’s website is responsive and mobile-friendly, just enter “mobile-friendly test” into the Google search bar. Then type in your company’s URL. Within a couple of minutes, Google

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will analyze your website and say if it is mobile-friendly or not, and why.

3. Working on your website’s SEO is a tedious and time-consuming process.

It involves working onsite and offsite to improve your website ranking. One easy way to place your website at the top of a search page is to use Google’s paid search program (AdWords.) These are the ads that you see at the top of any search results page. This program uses a “pay per click” model, so you don’t have to pay until someone clicks on your ad. There are various factors that determine how much you pay for a click and this is where it can get complicated. It is important to understand that paid ads are there to complement your unpaid listing in a search page.

Postmedia offers a complete suite of digital marketing solutions, such as the creation of responsive websites that are SEO-friendly. To learn more about our other digital marketing solutions including SEM, native advertising and content marketing, contact Sherry Dyck, manager, media sales, Saskatoon StarPhoenix.

Sherry Dyck Manager, Media Sales Saskatoon StarPhoenix (306) 657-6213 Email: sdyck@postmedia.com

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BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016 11

Business Votes YXE

Both private and public sector employees are reliant upon a robust private sector. Companies such as JNE Welding, whose vessel is pictured above, is a prime example.

JNE annually invests tens of millions of dollars in local supply chain and contributes significantly to public sector coffers through taxation and many other forms of government fees.

Here’s a question for you...

There is definitely plenty to think about heading into the 2016 civic election. Platforms, promises, campaigns and ideologies are all certainly part of the mix.

Perhaps you should be adding another question into the equation: Have you ever stopped to really think where your pay cheque comes from?

If you’re in the private sector, it’s pretty straight forward. Your employer’s name and bank account information makes it abundantly clear where your cheque comes from.

If you’re in the public sector though, it’s a little less clear. Although the employer is still identified, the ultimate source of where the money comes from is not. Of course public sector employees (those employed by various levels of governments, branches, agencies, health districts, school boards etc.) are paid by their respective employer, but from where does that employer receive its money?

You see, governments cannot create money from thin air. If they could, then governments would never post deficit budgets. Rather, they are accountable for every dollar they spend (as we are reminded by the current federal deficit in the range of $30 billion).

In other words, governments collect and redistribute capital, they don’t create it.

Business – and business alone – is responsible for wealth creation. Think of business as the 12

BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016

By Keith Moen, Executive Director, NSBA

economic engine that is driving the economy.

At the risk of mixing metaphors, there is no chicken and egg debate here in terms of what came first. Business is the golden goose which lays golden eggs that the various levels of governments are only too eager to collect and claim as their own.

Whether it’s through some form of taxation, grants, transfers, equalization payments or Crown corporation dividends, invariably, the ultimate source of government revenue comes from business; a business that saw an opportunity, capitalized upon it, and created wealth.

It is upon this pinnacle of commerce that the wheels of government revenue, and the corresponding public spending then takes motion.

Wealth creation then becomes dutifully taxed (on multiple levels: sales tax, business tax, income tax, payroll tax, property tax, etc., etc…) which in turn has fed the behemoth that is government.

Indeed, taxes come from businesses and people who are employed. And people are employed because of business. It really is that simple.

Now that we’ve posed (and answered) that question, perhaps another one has arisen.

What does this have to do with the 2016 Civic Election, you might be asking yourself.

Well, we want our elected officials to know

the true value of business.

If they don’t value and appreciate business, and what it means to our city, we’re all going to be in trouble.

To help sort through this basic tenet, the NSBA has sent a questionnaire to all civic election candidates. This questionnaire will help identify where the respective candidates’ priorities are in terms of business, and in terms of you.

Visit our website at www.nsbasask. com or like us on Facebook to see their responses.

Educate yourself on which candidates know the value of business, and which candidates, frankly, don’t. Before casting a vote, ask your candidate if they have business as a priority.

Think about their response.

You owe it to yourself to become educated.

You owe it to your fellow citizens to make your vote count.

Don’t take anything for granted. Make sure your voice is heard. A vote for business is a vote that works for everyone.

Advanced polls begin October 15. Voting day is October 26.

When government gets it wrong, business is stifled, and we all suffer. And when making your decision, vote as if your job depended upon it, because it just might.

The answer is simple – if their priority is not on business, then it is not on you.

Business Votes YXE

Investing in Riversdale “the place to be” Investment in Riversdale continues to grow with several parcels of land under construction or nearing completion, and more plans underway for new projects in the fall. New business ventures and established businesses looking to own their own sites are clearly the winners here today.

The untapped potential of this emerging historic commercial district continues to be sought by those wanting their business to be located near the river, within walking distance of Downtown, and join others who are renovating homes and living closer to work.

Recent streetscaping work on 20th Street West has been recognized by the International Downtown Association with a Certificate of Merit Award for Public Places, presented

in Atlanta, GA to the Riversdale Business Improvement District in partnership with Urban Design and the City of Saskatoon.

Private investment is closely following this new streetscape, and The Banks along with the Saskatoon Farmers’ Market are beginning to emerge as the place to be.

An entirely different concept with commercial condos has taken off at The Blok on Avenue B South, on land that was vacant for over 80 years. This helps with the local job market and creates many opportunities for local people to realize that this historic commercial corridor is definitely heading in the right direction. Join us at our many niche market stores and plan for a meal or social outing at the many new coffeeshops and restaurants that are becoming everyone’s new place to hang!

The Blok at 123 Avenue B South is Saskatoon’s newest commercial condo and an example of what can happen when improving municipal infill guidelines is made, along with strong investor confidence.

Sutherland BID - Investment and growth by City spurring development

The makeover of Sutherland’s Central Avenue corridor will have a distinctly “small-town feel,” says the Chair of the area’s business improvement district, Sheldon Wasylenko.

It’s long overdue,” said Sheldon Wasylenko.

“We didn’t want to see it deteriorating to the point where it would have less and less

appeal. But the area has to grow beyond that.

The streetscaping project is a very good start. “The purpose of this project is to encourage the renewal and revitalization of the historic commercial area along Central Avenue in Sutherland.”

Investment and growth are paramount.

“We have to work even harder now to attract boutique and locally owned stores that fit the area’s character,” he said.

“Not to say we don’t want to be another Riversdale, Broadway or YXE Downtown, these are all great areas within our city,” he said. “But we want to develop our own unique atmosphere and interest for Sutherland, and

do it in such a way that defines our area with a small-town look and feel. A strong business community benefits everyone in the city.”

Sutherland was a small railway town on the outskirts of Saskatoon. Sutherland is now a suburb of Saskatoon. Because of its proximity to the University of Saskatchewan and Innovation Place, Sutherland is now attracting more young families and is seeing a revitalization of the business district. The increased demand for business, shopping and other amenities within Sutherland must be addressed in order to proactively plan for the continuation of this growth.

The Sutherland Business Improvement District (SBID), working with the City of Saskatoon, must ensure that the Integrated Growth Plan (IGP) includes the SBID in support of the “growth and development of Saskatoon.”

BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016 13

Business Votes YXE

The business of travel

By Aviva Kohen, Tourism Saskatoon

The 2016 National Lacrosse League Championship was a huge tourism win, but better infrastructure investment could mean more events hosted in Saskatoon in the future. (Photo: Concepts Photography, Tourism Saskatoon)

When most people think tourism, cargo pants and Tilley hats often come to mind. But tourism, and what Tourism Saskatoon does for our city, is much bigger than leisure travel alone. Tourism is in fact the world’s largest industry, with international travel receipts totalling $1.159 trillion in 2013. This includes leisure travel, as well as both national and international conventions, national events, and sport events.

In Saskatoon, visitors spend over half a billion dollars annually, a significant impact to our local economy. More than 16,500 people are employed in tourism-related jobs in Saskatoon, according to a Statistics Canada survey conducted in 2012, which represents 9% of the city’s workforce.

Whether visitors come for leisure, a convention, special event or sports, most are drawn to our city because of our amenities.

To keep Saskatoon a destination enticing to visitors, it is essential we continue to maintain and improve our amenities in order to grow this lucrative industry.

A hot topic recently has been the potential 14

BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016

establishment of a major sport facility in the downtown area. A study on the feasibility has been approved, which Tourism Saskatoon feels will show the necessity to have a bigger and more versatile facility in our city’s core.

Capable of bringing larger-scale events, a newer facility would mean a growth in job opportunities and dollars being brought into our city. Our next City Council will need to deal with the results of this study.

Looking to other cities across North America, having a larger facility downtown has meant increased business opportunities for all the surrounding communities before and after every event.

The Saskatchewan Rush’s success their first year in Saskatoon has been a big economic boost for Saskatoon, drawing locals and an impressive 32% from out of town to Sasktel Centre, including a full house of 15,000 fans at the last five games. From a city that hardly knew the sport of lacrosse, to selling out many games, Sasktel Centre is busting at the seams.

Lee Genier, President & CEO of the Saskatchewan Rush says, “With projected

sellouts every game this coming year and the fan avidity of the Rush, we would be able to fill a larger building. Some games last year we definitely could have sold 20,000 tickets. Sasktel Centre has outgrown its current location and a downtown facility would create an even more revitalized core.”

SaskTel Centre CEO Will Lofdahl agrees, “The facility’s narrow concourses, inadequate number of restrooms and concessions, and low rigging beams that don’t work for the now bigger touring shows, are all causing Sasktel Centre to lose ground in an increasingly competitive market filled with much more modern facilities.”

TCU Place will also be part of the upcoming study to look at the possibility of a combined or nearby arena and convention centre. Bob Korol, CEO of TCU Place points to the city’s rapid growth and the opportunity to hold bigger events. He says, “As the city grows, the convention business will continue to develop.”

Other recent local infrastructure conversations have been about the loss of the track and field facilities at Griffith’s Stadium, which will be removed next June to make way for an artificial turf. With no plan or dollars in place to replace this facility, we will see an impact on the sport and our city’s hosting capabilities if the city does not come together to back a new track and field location.

Says Todd Brandt, President & CEO of Tourism Saskatoon, “Bringing new money into our community requires investment.

In tourism’s case, investment is needed to ensure the infrastructure is in place to host gatherings, and this infrastructure must meet the competitive standard set by the market. Whether it is a major sporting event, convention, tradeshow or annual festival, a destination’s allure is determined by these facilities. Conjoined conventions, trade, sport, accommodation and retail facilities located in our city centre would create a strategic competitive advantage for Saskatoon. We feel it is critical to support the study currently underway to look at this potential for our destination.”

It all starts with infrastructure. In order to draw more visitors to our city, bring new money into Saskatoon and improve the quality of life for our own citizens, we must support the continued improvement of our city’s infrastructure.

Member News

Market Mall celebrates 50 years

By Terri Eger

Mall the first commercial development to offer residential opportunities on site. General Manager Betty Anne Fisher explained that the planned residential development will be available to everyone.

“Market Mall has become a community in itself,” she said.

While Market Mall is popular with seniors who live in the area, Fisher explained that the demographics are changing as more young and immigrant families move to the Market Mall when it first opened in 1966 (supplied area and take advantage of the convenience photo) of shops and services offered at the mall.

As the first enclosed shopping centre Market Mall began as a 150,000 square in Saskatoon, Market Mall began foot building expanding four times over the treating customers to a new shopping years to a total of 308,000 square feet. The experience when it was opened in 1966. mall features a full range of businesses offering Today, while celebrating its 50th anniversary, family fashion, electronics, restaurants, the mall is once again evolving to meet the attractions and services. needs of customers and lead the industry.

In addition to more than 80 businesses Initial steps have been taken to make Market operating under the same roof, Market Mall is the only shopping centre in Canada that offers The Children’s Discovery Museum, Children’s Playland Art Gallery which features artwork from local schools and Gallery on the Green, a curated gallery featuring international artists.

Who could forget about the 18 hole indoor miniature golf course?

Located in the heart of the mall the course is modelled after California’s famous Pebble Beach. Complete with tropical plants, lush greens and a Laddie James General Manager, meandering stream Hairstyle Inn Salons and fish pond, it is the perfect place for families to come together all year long.

“We are incorporating community aspects Group Benefits with a Difference.

Simple. Stable. Smart. right into the mall,” said 16

BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016

The indoor miniature golf course is a popular attraction at the mall (supplied photo)

Fisher. “People can come indoors and do their shopping, be entertained and check errands off their list in one convenient location.”

Dynacare Laboratory began operating in the mall this spring in addition to Service Canada which came on board in 2014. Cosmo Industries opened a satellite at the mall this spring, offering vocational programs for adults with intellectual disabilities. With fitness classes, three sit-down restaurants, play areas and a nursing station equipped with comfy chairs, Market Mall continues to evolve to meet the needs of today’s consumer.

Market Mall Mon , Tues & Sat 9:30am – 6:00pm Wed, Thurs & Fri 9:30am – 9:00pm Sundays 11:00am - 5pm Customer Service Phone: (306) 374-2644

Community Stories

HMCS Unicorn - the Navy ship in the heart of Saskatoon

Founded in 1923 as the Saskatoon Half-Company of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) Volunteer Reserve and commissioned as a ‘stone frigate’ in the 1940s, HMCS Unicorn has been the presence of the Royal Canadian Navy in Saskatoon for over 90 years.

“Unicorn was one of the first 12 naval reserve divisions established across the county,” says Unicorn’s commanding officer, Lieutenant-Commander Matthew Dalzell.

“The naval reserve was established to perform two major roles: to train part-time sailors and to represent the navy to Canadians in their communities. We still do that today.”

Located on its current site at the corner of Fourth Avenue and 24th Street East since 1943, Unicorn was a hub for navy recruiting and training during the Second World War. 3600 prairie sailors from Saskatoon and surrounding communities joined here, with most serving in warships that guarded convoys during the Battle of the Atlantic.

Sixty-three did not come home.

Today, the naval reserve is an integral part of the RCN with naval reservists serving in ships at sea and in positions ashore.

While primarily part-time, Unicorn sailors

routinely serve in coastal defence vessels such as HMCS Saskatoon¸ which earlier this year intercepted 5,000 kg of cocaine off of Central America. Closer to home, Unicorn has sent sailors to fight flooding in Manitoba.

Dalzell believes that the navy is important to Saskatchewan, and he’s proud of Unicorn and his crew of Saskatoon sailors.

“Saskatchewan’s economy is driven by exports – a lot of which travel to overseas customers,” he says. “Most of the products we import also come by sea. So it isn’t a stretch to say that even though we’re a long way from a coast, our economy floats on salt water. Our navy – including Unicorn - is ultimately here to ensure that flow of trade can happen.”

A parade in 1973 for the 50th anniversary of the Naval Reserve

Remembrance Day Ceremony in Saskatoon

For more information contact the Recruiting Office at 306-934-8556, or jobs_unicorn@forces.gc.ca Information nights occur every Wednesday at 7:30 pm at the Naval Reserve Division located at 405-24th Street East.

Unicorn’s rigid inflatable boat in use on the South Saskatchewan River, during the centennial of the Royal Candian Navy in 2010

BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016 17

Business Votes YXE

The Saskatoon Land Bank A lobbying success

By Saskatoon Region Association of REALTORS®.

For a number of years now the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce (GSCC) has lobbied the City of Saskatoon for greater transparency with the Saskatoon Land Bank, especially with regards to financial transparency. In recent years the Land Bank has experienced healthy returns on their investments as well as a healthy rate of absorption by the community of developers. However, a slower real estate market in the past two years has again brought concerns to the forefront of several groups including the GSCC and the Saskatoon Region Association of REALTORS®. One of the main concerns is around risk: should the city of Saskatoon be holding large parcels of land in a market where the uptake from developers has slowed significantly?

Other questions include concerns of a monopoly in the market when it comes to pricing serviced land with the City of Saskatoon being a significant owner and developer. How does this impact other developers who pay taxes to the city and compete in the same market place? Is the cost of serviced land truly offered to builders and developers at a competitive market price?

In an article published in the Business View this spring, current Past President, Tanya Knight, proposed three significant objectives regarding the Land Bank: • An adequate supply of land at competitive market rates • Provision of innovation and leadership in design for new growth and transparency • A level playing field for other 18

BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016

development interests in the city Mrs. Knight concluded by recommending greater transparency through an evaluation of the current financial position, clarity around goals, identification of risks and ongoing measurement of success. In the past, the best one could hope for was a very standard response from the Land Bank that lacked substance or the suggested movement towards accountability. I’m pleased to hear that as a result of this article, the efforts of

Saskatoon Land, To analyse the current business and governance structure and • To conduct a risk assessment of the operations of Saskatoon Land The final report is to be delivered to the Standing Policy Committee on Finance in December of 2016. This is a significant win for all stakeholders in our community.

It is also a reflection on how much more collaborative, co-operative and open city administration has become in recent months.

This further underscores the importance of continued lobbying for significant issues at all levels of government. A large part of the activities of the GSCC, is advocacy on behalf of its members and the residents of the community. At times it feels that efforts are futile and should be abandoned in favor of other issues, often leaving members to question the relevancy of the organization. However, Photo: Grant Romancia as was demonstrated in this case, change is possible through numerous stakeholder organizations and a collaboration with other stakeholders and strong push by Councillor Randy Donauer persistent and consistent lobbying efforts. for an internal audit, these concerns are no On a final note, as we head into a significant longer falling on deaf ears. In August it was civic election this fall, this emphasizes the announced that an internal audit would be importance of making the right choice for undertaken by Pricewaterhouse Coopers who those who will represent our city as councillors would be reporting to the Standing Policy and mayor for the next four years. There are Committee on Finance. The scope of this several ways to be informed on where the report would be: candidates stand regarding issues that directly • To assess if Saskatoon Land is adhering impact a business friendly environment such to policy, as taxation, Infrastructure and development.

• To analyse current conflict of interest Candidates will be providing information guidelines, and insight through forums, door to door • To analyse lot prices and lot pricing visits and social media. The greatest impact process, we can have is to ensure that we cast an • To analyse Saskatoon Land policies informed vote and encourage greater voter and procedures, turnout by our neighbors, employees and • To analyse the current Privacy and co-workers.

Access to Information Policy of •

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BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 219582016 201619

Chamber members save up to 30%

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MEMBERS PAGE

Member News & Announcements

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

Agribusiness Opportunities Bert Sutherland - Rayacom Print & Design

Loran Forer - BMO Business Growth Mark Zielke - Start Fresh Media Business of Science & Technology Bill Lewis - Engineering for Kids Sandra Ribeiro - Canadian Light Source Business of Science & Technology ICT Subcommittee Allan Wolinski - Vendasta Technologies Celebrate Success!

Lynn Eberle - Great Western Brewing Co. Chamber on Tap Evan Drisner - Nu-Fab Building Products First Nations and Métis Opportunities Committee

April Roberts - Saskatchewan First

Nations Economic Development Network Bert Sutherland - Rayacom Print & Design

Mucho Burrito, Fresh Mexican Grill, is Canada’s largest chain of premium fast casual Mexican restaurants and a wholly owned subsidiary of MTY Group, one of Canada’s leading restaurant hospitality food companies.

Since its inception in 2006, Mucho Burrito has been committed to delivering “mucho customer satisfaction” by creating authentic Mexican-inspired food that lives up to the promise: Fresh Mexican Grill. Mucho Burrito only serves food that is mucho real and mucho fresh, made by hand, right in front of customers’ eyes, using only the freshest ingredients, free from artificial flavours and preservatives.

Owners Maureen Bobier, Dana and Dan Hulak are proud to serve a “no rules” menu enhanced by the scent of spices, roasted vegetables, and charbroiled and braised meats. Each meal is made to order right in front of guests’ eyes. Guests can chose from a variety of menu selections, including hand-rolled burritos, tacos, quesadillas, salads, and a selection of custom Mucho Burrito hot sauces.

Mucho Burrito continues to raise the bar in the fast-casual dining category. Today there are over 100 Mucho Burrito locations across Canada. Saskatoon’s first Mucho Burrito is locally owned and operated in the heart of the Stonebridge community in the Stonebridge Centre.

“We live in Stonebridge and we are thrilled to be bringing one of Canada’s fastest growing franchises to this vibrant community. This is food you and your family can feel good about eating!” That means real food, like their 100% grain-fed chicken and their Canadian AAA beef. Mucho Burrito is known for its all-natural guacamole and salsas made with traditional fire roasted techniques. Both are made fresh by hand every day. Mucho Burrito Saskatoon offers the freshest, most delicious authentic Mexican grill and an overall mucho experience.

Contact Information: Address: Unit 200-3020 Preston Ave S Phone: 306-978-8814 Email: md2grills@gmail.com Facebook: @muchoburritosaskatoon

Future Opportunities Committee

Bill Brooks - Eclecthink International Going Global Ken Ziegler - Robertson Stromberg LLP Monica Kreuger - Global Infobrokers Government Affairs Michael Chudoba - Foundation Realty Ltd

Health Opportunities Dave Dutchak - MD Ambulance Care Ltd. Sanj Singh - Lighthouse Management Inc. Sustainability Opportunities Colleen Yates - Equinox3 Consulting Ltd.

For more information or to join a volunteer committee email us at: committee@saskatoonchamber.com

22

BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016

MacPherson Leslie & Tyerman LLP (MLT) and Aikins, MacAulay & Thorvaldson LLP (Aikins) are pleased to announce their merger. Effective January 1, 2017, these two widely respected and distinguished law firms are joining together as MLT Aikins LLP (MLT Aikins), Western Canada's Law Firm.

Don Wilson, Managing Partner of MLT and incoming Managing Partner of MLT Aikins said, "It is a natural move for us to join with Manitoba's leading firm, Aikins, and together continue the expansive vision of building Western Canada's Law Firm. The Western Canadian regional focus is consistent with clients' increasing demand for more specialized legal services from those who fully understand their business in this market. Not only does this merger provide enhanced geographic scope for our clients throughout Western Canada, the highly talented and experienced group of lawyers at Aikins will add depth and breadth to our merged practices.”

“This is an exciting and historic step forward for our two firms that will enable the merged firm to better serve all our clients,” said David Filmon, incoming Chair of MLT Aikins. “As the world becomes smaller, this merger responds to an intensifying requirement from our clients to have access to a larger network of lawyers, offering specialized and in-depth expertise to meet their increasingly complex legal needs.”

Herb Peters, Managing Partner of Aikins added, "This merger is a logical next step in our firm’s evolution. MLT was a natural choice given that our cultures mesh well, the two firms are very likeminded in our approach to client service and this move dramatically increases our capacity to serve our clients.”

With more than 240 lawyers, MLT Aikins will have one of the largest teams of lawyers working in Western Canada and significant combined bench strength in each firm’s core practice areas: corporate and commercial, litigation, labour and employment, securities, intellectual property and tax. The combined firm will offer a wealth of in-depth knowledge of the region's business

For membership information contact Derek Crang (306) 664-0702 dcrang@saskatoonchamber.com Visit saskatoonchamber.com today

Welcome New Members

Alawa Foods Inc. Agricultural AND Import / Export PO Box 458, Vanscoy Phone: (306) 280-5975 Cheryl Klein

Five Star Excavating Ltd. Construction 821 46th St E, Saskatoon Phone: (306) 491-9488 Jody Erickson

MLE Industrial Automation Ltd. Distributors 1105 8th St E, Saskatoon Phone: (306) 979-1300 Ethan Jia

Anchor Managed Solutions Ltd. Computers - Sales / Services / Supplies AND Consultants Computer 103-1359 Fletcher Rd, Saskatoon Phone: (306) 242-0095 Shawne Hancock

Flynn’s Forest Indoor Playground Entertainment / Attractions 50-214 Joseph Okemasis Dr, Saskatoon Phone: (306) 382-7529 Laura Debusschere / Mark Debusschere

Mucho Burrito (Stonebridge, Saskatoon) Restaurants 200-3020 Preston Ave S, Saskatoon Phone: (306) 974-8814 Dana Hulak

Ghiglione, Paula Real Estate - Services Phone: (306) 612-4138

State Media Inc. Signs AND Printing Services / Supplies 3017 Taylor St E, Saskatoon Phone: (639) 998-1888 Congli Dong

Archdekin, Devin Azeroth Construction and Consulting Construction AND Home-Based Business Phone: (306) 203-9124 Elliott Byers CanaDragon Financial Services / Planning 1103-201 1st Ave S, Saskatoon Phone: (306) 941-1305 James Kernaghan Chi, Zhang Edge Family Law Legal Services 505 23rd St E, Saskatoon Phone: (306) 978-3343 Leanne Johnson El Gaucho Conceptions Inc. Technology AND Computers - Sales / Services / Supplies 217-310 Wall St, Saskatoon Phone: (306) 250-8161 Grant Martens Elevate Leadership Development Consultants 2366 Avenue C N, Saskatoon Phone: (306) 260-7274 Jackie Hunter Evers, John Home-Based Business Phone: (306) 290-5727

gotmold? Disaster Recovery Services Inc. Other Services 1-1622 Ontario Ave, Saskatoon Phone: (888) 909-6653 James Watson HVL Distribution Distributors AND Chemicals 2623B Faithfull Ave, Saskatoon Phone: (800) 667-9668 Kevin Isbister / Taralene Ziola Laurier Drive Medical Clinic Health Care - Services / Supplies 3110 Laurier Dr, Saskatoon Phone: (306) 978-2200 Josophine / Manzini Livingston Mechanical Services Contractors 300-423 Tait Crt, Saskatoon Phone: (306) 380-9735 William Livingston Maid Simple of Saskatoon Business Services Phone: (306) 230-7468 Nataghia Dore Make-A-Wish Saskatchewan Non-Profit Organizations PO Box 21054 RPO Grosvenor Prk, Saskatoon Phone: (306) 850-9474 Allyson Wall

Summit Management Group Inc. Restaurants 10-302 Stonebridge Blvd, Saskatoon Phone: (306) 227-8172 Kim Arnold TownePlace Suites Saskatoon by Marriott Hotels / Motels 247 Willis Cres, Saskatoon Phone: (306) 952-0400 Daniella Khoei / Fred Hrehirchuk Varsity Dental Group Health Care - Services / Supplies 201-1414 8th St E, Saskatoon Phone: (306) 665-2400 Adrienne Gallagher Wilton Academy of Music Inc. Education / Training 701 Taylor St E, Saskatoon Phone: (306) 270-6494 Nicole Wilton YXE Custom Co. Advertising Specialties / Sportswear AND Home-Based Business Phone: (306) 241-7112 Hasib Karimi

BUSINESS VIEW SASKATOON OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016 23

WIN, WIN, WIN.

When local hosts hold events in Saskatoon, everyone wins.

This year, meet up at HOME. Showcase your city with the Tourism Saskatoon Ambassador Program.

Be a host to the best in your industry and show the world what makes Saskatoon a spectacular destination for conferences and trade shows big and small. With the Ambassador Program, Tourism Saskatoon makes it easy to host your industry’s next event.

What is a Local Ambassador?

An ambassador is a promoter of Saskatoon, someone who is enthusiastic about bidding for and hosting a conference in our city.

How

WHAT

become a Local Ambassador How Tourism Saskatoon supports Local Ambassadors: (FREE OF CHARGE) Bid Assistance

WHY

• Assist in preparing a comprehensive bid document including letters of support.

Why become a Local Ambassador?

• Provide incentives to qualified events.

• Showcase regional advancements, achievements and expertise to the world.

Convention Planning

• Raise your profile locally, nationally and internationally.

• Contact hotels and venues regarding price and availability.

• Gain recognition for your efforts by the local community, organisations and government.

• Provide funding for administration support if required.

• Create public awareness for your field of expertise.

• Fund and coordinate site visits for key decision makers.

• Potential to generate income for your research, department and/or association.

• Attract leaders in your field to your city.

• Assist with introductions to Professional Conference Organisers (PCOs).

• Assist in creating jobs in the region through direct and indirect required services.

• Provide guidance for funding options to help support your conference.

Does the Ambassador Program sound like something you want to be a part of?

Marketing support • Provide promotional materials and support towards the marketing of your conference.

• Attend the prior year conference to generate delegate interest.

When local hosts hold events in Saskatoon, everyone wins Hosting an event in Saskatoon benefits the local economy, bringing additional exposure of our city as not only a business destination, but a center of excellence.

tourismsaskatoon.com 306.242.1206 | Conventionssaskatoon@tourismsaskatoon.com