Sask. hosting rural innovation conference this month

ICED Rural 2025 takes place Sept. 23 and 24

Estevan, Sask. will play host to ICED Rural 2025, Canada’s only rural innovation conference, Sept. 23 and 24.

“This year’s theme zeroes in on two of the most critical challenges and opportunities facing rural innovation: Energy and Education,” the event website says.

As part of the event, the conference will explore how rural communities can shape the future of energy and bridge digital gaps.

The event will also have two new features for 2025.

One sf the Saskatchewan Rural Pitch 2025.

This competition is only open to rural Saskatchewan innovators ready to share their ideas, business, or prototype.

The winner will receive a prize of $15,000 in seed money.

The other new part of the conference is the Rural Innovation Exhibit Showcase.

This is where attendees can visit with people at the forefront of rural Canada.

“We’re showcasing groundbreaking startups, cutting-edge technologies, and bold ideas designed to empower rural communities to lead, grow, and thrive,” the webpage says. “From energy to agtech, clean tech to connectivity, this is where rural innovation takes center stage.”