Bill Gates Plans $200 Billion Donation Through Gates Foundation by 2045

Bill Gates has announced a major acceleration in his philanthropic efforts, pledging to donate 99% of his substantial net worth—over $200 billion—through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation over the next 20 years. This marks a shift from the foundation's original plan to operate for decades beyond the co-founders' lifetimes, with a new sunset date set for December 31, 2045. Gates emphasized the urgency of addressing pressing global challenges, such as infectious diseases, maternal and child health, poverty alleviation, and educational inequities, especially amid declining international health funding. The Gates Foundation has already spent more than $100 billion over 25 years, and this increased commitment aims to double that investment to maximize impact within a defined timeframe. Gates cited inspiration from Andrew Carnegie's "The Gospel of Wealth" and expressed his determination not to "die rich," highlighting the importance of deploying resources when they are most needed. Major contributors like Warren Buffett have supported the foundation, but with his future donations ending upon his death, accelerated giving ensures the foundation's continued influence and efficacy.