Early Life and Education
Bidzina Ivanishvili was born on February 18, 1956, in Chorvila, Georgia, into a family with modest means. Growing up, his family faced financial constraints. He attended Tbilisi State University, graduating with a degree in engineering and economics in 1980. He later pursued a PhD in economics at the Moscow State University of Railway Engineering.
Rise to Success
Ivanishvili's business career began in the late 1980s when he and a partner started selling computers and push-button telephones in Moscow. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, he acquired assets in the banking and metals industries, which became the foundation of his wealth. He left Russia in 2002 and moved to France.
Political Career and Key Business Strategies
In 2012, Ivanishvili entered Georgian politics, founding the Georgian Dream party and winning the parliamentary election. He served as Prime Minister from 2012 to 2013. During his term, he implemented policies such as the Universal Healthcare Program and prison reform. After resigning as Prime Minister, he has been described as maintaining significant influence over Georgian politics. Ivanishvili's business strategies involved identifying opportunities in the emerging post-Soviet economy and investing in key sectors like banking and metals.
Philanthropy
Ivanishvili is known for his substantial philanthropic activities. He established the Cartu Charity Foundation, which has supported various projects in Georgia, including the construction of the Sameba Cathedral in Tbilisi. He also invested in projects such as the Paragraph Hotel and the golf club, demonstrating his commitment to Georgia's economic development. He stated that he has decided to donate at least 90% of his wealth to public and national causes.
