Date of Birth: August 13, 1958
Zodiac Sign: Leo
Biography
Iqbal Z. Quadir is a prominent Bangladeshi-American entrepreneur and a visionary in the field of technology and development. He is best known as the founder of Grameenphone, the largest telecommunications service provider in Bangladesh. Born in Jessore, Bangladesh, Quadir moved to the United States to pursue higher education, where he earned a BA from Swarthmore College and an MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Quadir’s career took off when he conceptualized and implemented the idea of providing universal access to mobile phones in rural Bangladesh. His groundbreaking work with Grameenphone not only revolutionized telecommunications in Bangladesh but also contributed significantly to economic development and poverty alleviation. In addition to his work with Grameenphone, Quadir has been involved in various academic roles, including serving as a lecturer at Harvard Kennedy School and as the founder and director of the Legatum Center for Development and Entrepreneurship at MIT. His contributions to the field of technology and development have earned him numerous accolades and recognition worldwide.
5 Interesting Facts about Iqbal Quadir
1. Iqbal Quadir is often credited with pioneering the concept of “mobile phones for the masses” in developing countries.
2. He worked at the World Bank before founding Grameenphone.
3. Quadir’s innovative approach has been recognized by institutions such as the World Economic Forum and the Aspen Institute.
4. He is also the co-founder of Emergence BioEnergy, a company focused on sustainable energy solutions.
5. Quadir has been a vocal advocate for the role of entrepreneurship in driving economic and social progress in developing countries.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Iqbal Quadir
1. “Connectivity is productivity.”
2. “Access to information is a basic human right.”
3. “Entrepreneurship is the key to economic development.”
4. “Innovation should be inclusive and accessible.”
5. “Technology can bridge the gap between the rich and the poor.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Highest net worth achieved: Estimated at $50 million
Children
Iqbal Quadir has three children, who have largely stayed out of the public eye. He has expressed his desire for them to find their own paths and make unique contributions to society.
Relevant Links
1. [MIT Legatum Center](https://legatum.mit.edu/about/our-people/iqbal-quadir/
2. [Grameenphone](https://www.grameenphone.com/
3. [Harvard Kennedy School](https://www.hks.harvard.edu/faculty/iqbal-quadir
4. [Emergence BioEnergy](https://www.emergencebioenergy.com/
5. [World Economic Forum](https://www.weforum.org/people/iqbal-quadir