Gaborone

History

The Business Place Gaborone, Botswana, came into being because of leading businessman, philanthropist and entrepreneur, Mr Yusuf Dada, Group Managing Director of the Motor Centre Group. As one of Botswana's most successful businessmen he made the decision to share his success and business expertise by facilitating for a place where potential entrepreneurs could get a wide range of support and services.

Through the University of Botswana Foundation, Mr Dada grouped together a consortium of funders that directed both the commencement and success of this noble initiative. These funders now fully participate as The Business Place Board of Directors.

Since the branch opened in March 2006 The Business Place Gaborone has become the centre of choice for entrepreneurship assistance in Botswana. It is also the first entrepreneurship development centre in Botswana which has successfully forged a public-private partnership.

Partners

The Business Place Gaborone is privileged to have a particularly active and diverse board. This group of directors funded the branch for its first three years and each one has renewed their commitment for another three years. They are:

• Business Place Network
• Investec Asset Management
• Barloworld Botswana
• Department of Youth
• CEDA (Citizen Entrepreneurship Development Agency)
• Kgalagadi Beverages Trust
• Motor Centre Group
• University of Botswana and University of Botswana Foundation

Also still involved are start-up funders First National Bank Foundation and the Ministry of Trade and Industry.