The formation of the Saskatchewan Institute on Prevention of Handicaps was initiated in the late 1970's through the visions of concerned individuals, working with the Saskatoon Branch of the Saskatchewan Association for the Mentally Retarded (now the Saskatchewan Association for Community Living, or SACL).

These individuals and the SACL envisioned the formation of a new agency which would identify and address the factors which caused handicapping conditions in Saskatchewan children. Primary prevention was deemed the highest priority for the Prevention Institute.

The Saskatchewan Institute on Prevention of Handicaps was incorporated in December, 1980 as a non-profit corporation, with the help of their shareholders.