[Yellowknife, April 10, 2025] – Minister Cleveland is pleased to announce the designation of Marie-Soleil Lacoursiere as the new Chairperson of Prosper NWT’s Board of Directors. Marie-Soleil is an accomplished businessperson with experience in mining, technology, merger and acquisition, and governance with a specialty in Northern and Indigenous entrepreneurship. Having served as a director since August 2021 and Vice-Chairperson since last year, Marie-Soleil brings strong governance experience and continuity to the Board.
Marie-Soleil Lacoursiere succeeds Kenny Ruptash, who has served on the Board since July 2020 and as Chairperson since February 2024. During his tenure, Kenny Ruptash was instrumental in steering the organization toward key milestones, including developing two Strategic Plans and introducing new legislation and a new organizational name and brand. The Minister, Board, and staff of Prosper NWT extend their deepest gratitude to Kenny for his outstanding leadership, strategic vision, and unwavering support.
Prosper NWT looks forward to working closely with Marie-Soleil Lacoursiere as she embarks on this important new role and continues to drive the organization’s mission forward.
Quotes
“I am excited to announce the designation of Marie-Soleil Lacoursiere as the new Chairperson of Prosper NWT’s Board of Directors. Marie-Soleil takes on this role at a crucial time for the organization, as it launches its new four-year Strategic Plan and brings the updated legislation and regulations to life. With her leadership, I am confident that Marie-Soleil will bring valuable insights to the Board and leave a lasting, positive impact on the territory’s business landscape. I also want to thank Kenny Ruptash for his outstanding leadership and dedication.”
- Caitlin Cleveland, Minister Responsible for Prosper NWT
“We are thrilled to welcome Marie-Soleil Lacoursiere as the new Chairperson of the Board. With Marie-Soleil at the helm, we look forward to benefiting from her expertise, vision, and deep commitment to our mission. Her experience and dedication will be invaluable as we continue to support NWT businesses and economic development in the territory.”
- Joyce Taylor, Chief Executive Officer, Prosper NWT
“It has been an honour to serve as Chairperson of Prosper NWT. I have witnessed firsthand the incredible impact this organization has on businesses across the North. I want to sincerely thank the dedicated staff, whose hard work and commitment continue to make that impact possible. I have full confidence in Marie-Soleil’s leadership as the new Chair and believe Prosper NWT is in excellent hands.”
- Kenny Ruptash, Former Chairperson of Prosper NWT
Quick Facts:
- Prosper NWT, formerly the Northwest Territories Business Development and Investment Corporation (BDIC), was created in 2005 to support the economic objectives of the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) by encouraging the creation and development of businesses, offering financial assistance including investment, and providing information and support to businesses.
- The organization is a public agency of the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) and is governed by a Board of Directors appointed by and responsible to the Minister Responsible for Prosper NWT.
- Prosper NWT promotes financial independence, assists communities, and helps develop a diverse and viable northern economy.
- Since 2005, the organization has distributed approximately $130 million to 750 businesses and has created or maintained over 2,000 jobs in NWT communities.
- There are currently nine members serving on the Prosper NWT Board of Directors. A complete list of Board members can be found at https://prospernwt.ca/governance
- The Board provides strategic direction and oversight, and its members are business owners and/or managers with business and managerial expertise.
Media Requests:
Leslie Dragon
Manager, Public Affairs, Marketing and Business Services
Prosper NWT (formerly the BDIC)
867-767-9075 ext. 86002