SASKATOON — Canada’s leading conference focused on sponsorship and partnership strategy is set to make its first-ever appearance in Saskatoon next spring.
The Western Sponsorship Congress® (WSC) will take place April 8–9, 2026, at TCU Place. The national event is expected to draw professionals from across the country working in sponsorship, fundraising, brand strategy and activation.
Organized and hosted by TCU Place, the two-day conference will feature keynote speeches, interactive panels, hands-on workshops and a fast-paced pitch competition designed to offer real-time insights into sponsorship success.
Brent Barootes, CEO of the Partnership Group and one of Canada’s top sponsorship experts, will open the event. With more than 25 years of experience, Barootes is known for his work with major brands, charities and rights holders across the country.
Among the key draws of the event are pre-conference workshops – hands-on sessions led by industry professionals to sharpen sponsorship skills and boost ROI before the main event begins. As well as the signature five-minute pitch: a fast-paced, Dragon’s Den-style competition where presenters pitch live and receive real-time feedback from top sponsorship experts.
Tammy Sweeney, CEO of TCU Place, said she is passionate about bringing high-calibre events to the heart of downtown.
“Bringing the Western Sponsorship Congress to Saskatoon is about more than hosting a great event; it’s about creating a space where partnerships can grow in a meaningful way, ideas can take root, and our community can shine on a national stage. Sponsorship has changed so much - and is much more geared around partnership and activation. We’re excited to welcome the country to our city to learn and grow together,” she said.
Registration for the conference opened May 21. Early registrants will be entered into a draw for a consulting package from the Partnership Group valued at $18,000.
For more details or to register, visit .
