Digvijay “Danny” Gaekwad
FOUNDER & CEO, DANNY GAEKWAD DEVELOPMENT & INVESTMENTS, OCALA
A self-described serial entrepreneur who arrived in the United States from India in 1987, Gaekwad borrowed $5,000 from friends to buy an Orlando convenience store, then built up a chain of 26 stores in less than a decade. Today, his Ocala-based company focuses on real estate development and information technology. Gaekwad has developed hotels in Ocala, Gainesville and Lexington, Ky. He is working on Gaekwad Village, a $250-million project in The Villages with 300 apartments, 1,100 home sites and a four-acre commercial site. Gaekwad has served on the boards of Space Florida and Visit Florida and the University of Central Florida Board of Trustees.
EDUCATION: Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (BA)
IF I WERE GOVERNOR: I’d prioritize fixing the insurance industry in the state of Florida, combating fraudulent claims, and protecting businesses and homeowners. I’d ban all the billboards, social media, radio and commercials that encourage citizens to sue their employers and providers. It is the worst system in the world and shame on the lawyers who are encouraging fake lawsuits.
READING: Chicken Soup for the Soul and Rich Dad, Poor Dad.
INSPIRING FLORIDIAN: U.S. Senator Rick Scott, a successful businessman turned politician, inspires me as a fellow Floridian. He is sincere, honest, hardworking and dedicated.
