DENVER - A delegation of more than a dozen public, private, and nonprofit leaders from Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, is visiting Denver this week as part of a strategic trade and investment mission designed to strengthen economic ties between Colorado and Saskatchewan. 

Led by Economic Development Regina (EDR), in partnership with the Global Business Development division within Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade (OEDIT), Denver Economic Development & Opportunity (DEDO), and Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation (EDC), the visit comes at a pivotal moment for North American trade and innovation. 

“Colorado is proud to be hosting leaders from Regina and Saskatchewan Canada to continue strengthening our economic and social partnerships and protect both nations key industries from Trump's reckless tariffs. I recently celebrated Colorado Canada Friendship Day, and worked with our neighbors to the north to solidify Colorado’s commitment to fostering healthy and beneficial trade relations to support both our growing and diverse economies,” said Governor Jared Polis. 

The mission follows the celebration of Colorado Canada Friendship Day in March and coincides with the launch of new daily, non-stop United Airlines service between Regina and Denver, creating a direct link between Denver’s thriving economy and Saskatchewan’s capital – a hub for agriculture innovation, traditional and renewable energy, advanced manufacturing and supply chain connectivity into Western Canada. 

Canada is already Colorado’s largest import and export partner. Colorado exports to Canada have grown at an average annual rate of 5.8% over the last five years, reaching $1.8 billion in 2023, while importing $5.5 billion from Canada. Colorado and Saskatchewan also enjoy a strong economic relationship, with more than $220.1 million in goods flowing between the two jurisdictions in the past year. 

“At a time of growing trade uncertainty, cities like Denver and Regina can play a vital role in promoting open, collaborative economic relationships,” EDR CEO Chris Lane said. “This mission is about building connections, exploring business and investment opportunities, and growing together in sectors where our economies align.” 

Denver-based organizations and investors stand to gain from enhanced access to Regina’s fast-growing agri-business sector, clean energy projects, and a workforce known for engineering, logistics, and manufacturing innovation. Conversely, Denver's leadership in sustainability, post-secondary research, and global commerce presents important collaboration opportunities for Saskatchewan innovators. 

During the visit, the host agencies will show off many of the things that contribute to Denver’s vibrant economy. Highlights include: 

• A Leadership Roundtable and reception bringing together business leaders, post-secondary institutions, and trade agencies;
• Active participation in World Trade Day, Colorado’s premier international business event;
• Visits to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and Colorado State University's SPUR campus, exploring shared research interests in clean tech and food systems;
• A WorldDenver Premier Briefing on U.S.-Canada economic relations. 

“Colorado’s strong relationship with Canada supports trade, foreign direct investment and tourism between the two regions, supporting business growth and expansion as well as job creation. We are thrilled to welcome our partners from Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada and celebrate the new nonstop flight that will strengthen our relationship and economic development opportunities,” said Eve Lieberman, Executive Director of OEDIT. 

“Denver is honored to welcome a distinguished delegation from Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada. Our cities share much in common. We are both located in the heartlands of our nations, aligned in time zones that make collaboration seamless, and we’re both dynamic centers for innovation in emerging industries like Agtech. With United Airlines’ new nonstop flight connecting Denver and Regina, we are excited to deepen our friendship with our Canadian neighbors. We look forward to continued collaboration and building an even stronger relationship in the years ahead,” said DEDO’s Global Director, Stephanie Garnica. 

“This delegation reflects the kind of intentional, cross-border collaboration that drives innovation and economic growth on both sides of the border,” said Raymond H. Gonzales, President of the Metro Denver EDC. “Colorado and Saskatchewan share strengths in advanced manufacturing, clean energy, ag-tech, and workforce excellence. By connecting our ecosystems through direct air service and strategic partnerships, we’re accelerating opportunities for shared prosperity.” 

The Regina delegation includes representatives from the Government of Saskatchewan, the Regina Airport Authority, the University of Regina, Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership, Canadian Western Agribition, Regina Chamber of Commerce, Regina Hotel Association, City of Moose Jaw, Global Transportation Hub and Saskatchewan-based manufacturing businesses. 

About the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade 

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) works to empower all to thrive in Colorado’s economy. Under the leadership of the Governor and in collaboration with economic development partners across the state, we foster a thriving business environment through funding and financial programs, training, consulting and informational resources across industries and regions. We promote economic growth and long-term job creation by recruiting, retaining, and expanding Colorado businesses and providing programs that support entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes at every stage of growth. Our goal is to protect what makes our state a great place to live, work, start a business, raise a family, visit and retire—and make it accessible to everyone. Learn more about OEDIT.