How App-Based Work Creates Economic Opportunity

In today’s busy world, where schedules shift and responsibilities change in an instant, many people in Saskatchewan are turning to flexible app-based work as an accessible way to earn extra income – when, where, and how they want.

App-based work offered through local commerce platforms like DoorDash creates new opportunities for people across Saskatchewan — and throughout Canada — to secure their financial futures one delivery at a time.

The flexibility makes the work attractive and the extra income keeps individuals satisfied with the opportunity. Whenever someone needs some extra cash, they can pick up a delivery or two on their own terms.

According to a new survey from DoorDash, conducted by Pollara Strategic Insights, almost all Dashers agree that dashing gives them more flexibility, autonomy, and freedom compared to other types of jobs.

At the same time, nearly three-quarters of Dashers (72 per cent) say dashing helps them reach their financial goals. That number increased by nine percentage points from last year’s survey – an indication that more people are supplementing their income with earnings from DoorDash. The survey also found 73 per cent say dashing helps them feel more financially secure.

Having access to flexible, app-based work makes a difference, whether covering unexpected expenses in the household or bolstering savings for that dream vacation, a home downpayment or to add to retirement funds.

Because the work can be completed on their own terms, the vast majority of Dashers pick up deliveries during their free time around other jobs or responsibilities. Nearly two-thirds of Dashers have some other kind of employment, whether full-time, part-time or as owners of their own business. Others are students, retired, or stay-at-home parents or caregivers.

Absent that freedom and flexibility, half of Dashers surveyed said they would quit dashing if they lost the ability to choose when they worked. This is why it is so important for Dashers to maintain their status as independent contractors.

Not only is dashing embraced by thousands of Saskatchewan residents, it is also supporting restaurants and small businesses across the province. Some restaurants estimate as much as a quarter of their business comes through DoorDash orders. A 2023 survey found one in 10 merchants reporting they would not be in business if not for DoorDash, and 74 per cent report their income has increased because of orders through DoorDash.

In times of economic uncertainty, including the era we’re living in now, the importance of maintaining flexible app-based work cannot be understated. When people are feeling a financial crunch or are losing confidence in the economic health of the nation, as noted in Pollara’s 2025 Economic Outlook where 70 per cent of Canadians believe we are in a recession, they can turn to DoorDash for help to improve their financial situation.

DoorDash isn’t just about connecting individuals to immediate earnings. It’s about using the platform in ways that fit their lives, whether that’s immediate earnings or working toward longer-term aspirations.

Learn more about how DoorDash is empowering Saskatchewan’s communities.