Who We Are
Community Focused Economic Development
Ile-a-la-Crosse, Saskatchewan
Rooted in the northern village of Ile-a-la-Crosse, Sakitawak Development Corporation (SDC) proudly carries the mantle of economic advancement for our community. Our mission is to bolster regional enterprises across diverse sectors, creating opportunities for gainful employment, and fostering sustainable growth.
SDC operates under the astute guidance of seven board members, appointed by our sole shareholder, the Northern Village of Ile a la Crosse. Our panel comprises two Village Council members and five at-large members, while our Mayor holds the position of an ex-officio non-voting board member.
Our Statistics
Sustainable economic and
community growth
Businesses Owned
Partnerships
Active Careers
Years Serving Our Community
SDC's Journey
History of Sakitawak Development Corporation
The Sakitawak Development Corporation (SDC) was incorporated, in 1989, by the Northern Village of Ile-a-la-Crosse (NVIL), to invest in regional and community businesses in multiple sectors.
Its general purposes or mandate as laid out in its Articles of Incorporation are provided below:
- The identification of economic and social development opportunities and the preparation and amendment of an economic and social development strategy for the community of Ile a la Crosse;
- The fostering of local individual ownership of business and property in the community of Ile a la Crosse;
- The promotion of the Ile a la Crosse community as a place for external investment in small business and for investment in small to large-scale industry;
- Improving the community overall potential for economic development by expanding business development in the community;
- Reducing the number of skilled people leaving the community; and,
- Reducing dependence on outsiders, especially Government.
SDC owns several successful businesses and profitable business investments, making it one of the largest Métis economic development corporations in northern Saskatchewan. The SDC supports and services include providing entrepreneurs in the community with advice and guidance and also investing in community infrastructure. SDC is recognized in the community of Ile-a-la-Crosse for its economic leadership and community development. In the past, it has often contributed 5% to 20% of its profits, annually, back to the community in the form of dividends.
Sakitawak / Ile-a-la-crosse
Our Community
Welcome to Ile-a-la-Crosse, Saskatchewan!
Situated on the picturesque eastern shore of Ile-a-la-Crosse Lake, our vibrant community in northern Saskatchewan invites you to experience the beauty of our natural surroundings and immerse yourself in our rich Indigenous culture. With a history rooted in the fur trade, Ile-a-la-Crosse has long been a vital trading post and transportation hub. Named after a small island adorned with a cross, our community holds a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate the heritage of early explorers.
Today, Ile-a-la-Crosse is home to approximately 1,200 residents, predominantly belonging to the Cree and Métis peoples. We take great pride in preserving our Indigenous way of life, engaging in activities like trapping, wild rice harvesting, and the revitalization of our language and cultural traditions. Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the breathtaking scenery that surrounds us. Whether you’re fishing in the crystal-clear waters of Ile-a-la-Crosse Lake, embarking on a boating adventure, or exploring the forests on a hunting excursion, our region offers an abundance of outdoor activities to suit your interests.
Our Leadership Team
Company Leadership
Our Staff
- Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Tyler Morin
- Operations Manager – John Belanger
- Business Development Manager – Darwin Roy
- Office Manager – Charlene Gardiner
- NSM General Manager – Alex Gardiner
- Ile-x Fish Co General Manager – Frank Morrison
- Administrative Assistant/ Property Manager– Melodie Daigneault
- SDC Construction/Maintenance – Robert Daigneault
- SDC Construction/Maintenance – Waylon Sutherland
Board of Directors
- Bodean Desjarlais— (Council Member) Chairman
- Jansen Corrigal— (Member at Large) Vice Chairman
- Philip Durocher— (Member at Large) Secretary/Treasurer
- Kevin Favel— (Council Member) Director
- Sheryl Yole— (Member at Large) Director
- Robert Dubrule— (Member at Large) Director
- Brittany Kyplain— (Member at Large) Director
- Duane Favel – (Mayor of NVIC) Ex-officio Director
SDC's vision is to be a northern leader in economic and community development.
Planning For A Sustainable Future
SDC's Vision & Mission
Our Mission: Founded in its cultural spirit, resilience, and strength in economic development, Sakitawak Development will maintain, develop, and expand the economic viability of the North West region by promoting strong partnerships with communities and industry.
Our Vision: To be a northern leader in economic and community development.