The idea of the National Design for Development Awards (NDDA) was developed in 1999 by Botswana Technology Centre. It was prompted by realizing that there has been very little effort made to encourage, promote design and support aspiring inventors. The project was initially planned to be an annual event, but due to setbacks encountered in the past, the awards were only implemented twice in 2000/01 and 2004/05.

NDDA remains vital to the economic development of Botswana. The awards (2009/10) are being re-introduced as a result of the success of the past awards, willingness to participate and enquiries from stakeholders and the public. Furthermore, it is anticipated that the awards will attract buy-in and support from parastatals and the private sector through sponsorship and funding.

The Awards (2009/10) has attracted representatives from various stakeholders within the government, parastatals and the private sector to participate in the preparation and planning of the ceremony.

There is also an adjudication panel of independent judges representing all sectors of the economy tasked to review the entries and to decide on the finalists.

The winners will be announced, and presented with the prestigious awards, trophies, at a ceremony scheduled for March 2010. In addition finalists will be recognized with certificates from the World Intellectual Property (WIPO)/African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO).