BIDPA was established following the realization that there is a need to have an independent research institute that can effectively conduct research, analysis and publication on development policy issues which are relevant to Botswana. The institute was formed against the background that Government then depended on external experts for policy advice, and that local capacity in policy research, analysis and advice was generally weak.BIDPA is now an established independent institution with high standards in the areas of economic analysis and policy research.  In December 2006, the Executive Board approved a grant of US$ 1.7 million for BIDPA Phase III.