Reflecting on IBG 2025: Strengthening Indigenous Business Together
Reflecting on IBG 2025: Strengthening Indigenous Business Together
The Indigenous Business Gathering (IBG) 2025 was a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience, and innovation within the Indigenous business community across the prairies. As OneHoop, we were proud to be a part of this gathering, witnessing firsthand the growth of Indigenous entrepreneurship and the commitment to economic reconciliation in Saskatchewan.
From the moment the doors opened at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon, the energy was palpable. With over 1,100 attendees and more than 130 trade show booths, IBG 2025 showcased the increasing impact of Indigenous businesses across industries. The event has seen remarkable growth since its inception. In 2022, IBG launched with 300 registered participants. By 2023, attendance grew to over 500 with 80 trade show booths, and in 2024, the numbers climbed further to 700 attendees and 85 trade show booths. This trajectory highlights the increasing recognition of Indigenous business excellence and the expanding opportunities for collaboration.
This year was particularly exciting for us, as it marked our first time exhibiting at IBG. After attending last year and seeing the value of this gathering, we took the leap to showcase OneHoop with a booth—and we are thrilled with the immense positive feedback we received! Our eye-catching and engaging booth drew in attendees, sparking meaningful conversations and reinforcing the importance of our mission. We truly feel like we started on the best foot forward, making a strong first impression in this space.
A special highlight for us was the incredible shout-out from the event’s emcee, recognizing Cadmus and slipping in a OneHoop mention. It was a testament to how recognized we are amongst our peers, thank you for that. We also want to acknowledge the work of our partners at Flowing River Capital, and affiliate company Pathway Supply LP, whose commitment to Indigenous economic growth continues to open new doors. We also want to thank Indigenous Opportunities (IOPPS) essentially an Indigenous Indeed for IOPPS interviewing OneHoop, we applaud their presence and dedication to supporting Indigenous employment opportunities across Canada.
We would also like to recognize the Government of Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Trade and Export Development and the passionate staff who planned this event. At OneHoop, we understand the significance of Indigenous-led gatherings, and we believe that excellence recognizes excellence—so congratulations on an amazing event!
IBG is more than just an annual event—it is a movement towards sustainable Indigenous economic development. As we reflect on our time at the gathering, we are reminded that our strength lies in unity. When Indigenous and non-Indigenous businesses come together with shared purpose, we create new opportunities, forge strong partnerships, and build a more inclusive economy.
We extend our gratitude to the organizers, participants, and partners who made IBG 2025 a success. We enjoyed connecting with friends, colleagues, and clients. We are already looking forward to what next year will bring as we continue to work towards a future where Indigenous businesses are recognized as leaders in Saskatchewan’s economic landscape.