PRINCE ALBERT, Saskatchewan – Sport and cultural events generated nearly $36 million in combined economic impact for Prince Albert in 2025, highlighting the growing importance of event tourism, local business activity and the Prince Albert Raiders to the city’s economy.
According to figures released by the City of Prince Albert, 56 events supported through the Destination Marketing Fund (DMF) generated more than $23.1 million in economic impact, while the Prince Albert Raiders contributed an estimated $12.8 million annually through hockey operations and related economic activity.
The findings provide the municipality’s first quantified assessment of the economic benefits associated with DMF-supported events.
Sport and Cultural Events Deliver $23.1 Million to Local Economy
The City of Prince Albert reported that 56 regional, provincial, national and international sporting and cultural events attracted an estimated 146,490 non-local visits during 2025.
These events generated approximately 19,618 hotel room nights, providing business opportunities for accommodation providers, restaurants, retailers and other local enterprises.
The municipality invested $557,400 through its Destination Marketing Fund to support organizations involved in attracting and hosting events.
Based on the reported figures, DMF-supported events generated approximately $41.45 in estimated economic impact for every dollar invested by the City. This represents a comparison of economic activity with municipal funding rather than a direct financial return to the City.
The results demonstrate how event-hosting initiatives can contribute to local tourism and commercial activity while strengthening Prince Albert’s position as a regional destination.
“The nearly $36 million generated through events and Prince Albert Raiders operations highlights the significant value that sport and culture bring to our economy, our businesses, and our community,” said Jody Boulet, Executive Director of Operations, City of Prince Albert.
Prince Albert Raiders Contribute $12.8 Million Annually
The Prince Albert Raiders remain another significant contributor to the regional economy.
A recent Canadian Hockey League Economic Impact Assessment estimates that the Western Hockey League franchise generates approximately $12.8 million annually for Prince Albert and surrounding communities.
The assessment includes economic activity associated with team operations, tourism, employment, community investment and event hosting.
Of the estimated annual contribution, approximately $5.76 million comes from out-of-market attendees, while visiting teams account for another $601,965.
These figures illustrate the role professional-level junior hockey plays in attracting visitors and supporting local businesses throughout the hockey season.
Raiders Support Charities and Youth Sport Development
Beyond their economic contribution, the Raiders maintain community partnerships that support charitable organizations and youth development.
The organization raises approximately $75,000 annually for local charities and community groups.
It also supports about 2,000 young people through sport partnerships and development initiatives.
“The Prince Albert Raiders are far more than a hockey team. They are a year-round economic driver that attracts visitors, supports local businesses, creates employment opportunities, and reinvests in our community. The $12.8 million economic impact demonstrates the important role the Raiders play in Prince Albert’s economy and quality of life,” said Michael Scissons, Business Manager, Prince Albert Raiders.
Tourism Partnerships and Volunteers Strengthen Event Hosting
Prince Albert’s event-hosting capacity is supported by municipal facilities, City services and partnerships with Sport Tourism Canada and Tourism Saskatchewan.
Local event organizers and volunteers also play an essential role in delivering tournaments, competitions and cultural programming.
Their contributions help accommodate visiting participants and spectators while supporting the city’s reputation as a destination for sporting and cultural activities.
The municipality says these partnerships, combined with Destination Marketing Fund investments, are central to attracting events that generate economic benefits across multiple business sectors.
Additional Economic Impact Studies Planned
Prince Albert is expanding its economic impact reporting to include other municipal recreation and cultural assets.
Additional assessments are underway for Cooke Municipal Golf Course and the City’s Arts & Cultural services.
The findings will be incorporated into future annual reports, providing a broader understanding of how recreation, tourism and cultural programming contribute to the local economy.
Prince Albert’s 2025 Sport and Culture Economy at a Glance
| Economic indicator | Reported impact |
|---|---|
| Combined economic impact | Nearly $36 million |
| DMF-supported events | 56 |
| Event-related economic impact | $23.1 million |
| Raiders’ annual economic impact | $12.8 million |
| Non-local event visits | 146,490 |
| Hotel room nights | 19,618 |
| Destination Marketing Fund investment | $557,400 |
| Raiders’ annual charitable fundraising | $75,000 |
| Youth supported through Raiders initiatives | 2,000 |
The findings reinforce the economic importance of sport and cultural programming to Prince Albert, particularly through visitor spending, business activity and community engagement.
The complete economic impact report is available through the City of Prince Albert’s Economic Development website.
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