Tuvalu : entrepreneurship and the Dot TV phenomenon

Abstract

This chapter explores this conundrum, with especial focus on the role of the Dot TV phenomenon. Through a striking combination of happenstance, gamesmanship, and political initiative, which is detailed below, Tuvalu acquired exclusive rights to the Internet domain name .tv, and has been able to capitalize on the potential financial value of this unique Internet resource. Revenues from leasing this highly desirable Internet domain name to international investors have resulted in a significant financial boost to the whole country. Combined with other considerations related to its economy, government, society, and cultural inclinations, the subsequent result has been that, despite all the evident challenges, Tuvalu has socio-economic indicators which are the envy of many developing countries. Extreme poverty is effectively non-existent, literacy rates are close to 100 per cent, and both educational and health indicators are good.