Bill Gates to Shut Down Gates Foundation by 2045

 Bill Gates made a historic announcement on May 8, 2025: the Gates Foundation would shut down by December 31, 2045. Compared to its initial plan to sunset twenty years after the deaths of Gates and his ex-wife, Melinda French Gates, this is a dramatic acceleration.

Gates Foundation

A Giving Legacy: The Influence of the Gates Foundation

The Gates Foundation has made nearly $100 billion in contributions to global agriculture, education, and health since its founding 25 years ago. Notable achievements include the establishment of the Global Fund and GAVI, which offer treatments and vaccines for illnesses like malaria, TB, and HIV.

The Reasons and Consequences of the Closing Decision

Gates warned of possible reversals in advances against illnesses and infant mortality and underlined the need to increase funds in light of recent cuts in international aid by affluent states. He denounced attacks on USAID and emphasized the significance of ongoing U.S. engagement in programs like polio eradication. In addition, Gates emphasized how AI can help philanthropy and indicated a strong interest in combating malnutrition and creating HIV gene therapy.

A Request for Philanthropists to Act

Gates urged other billionaires to boost their philanthropic giving and envisioned future leaders leveraging innovation to promote global health and equity.

In conclusion

Bill Gates' intention to shut down the Gates Foundation by 2045 marks a dramatic change in philanthropy approach by prioritizing short-term effects over long-term viability. By distributing his riches more quickly, Gates hopes to better address urgent global issues and encourage others in the philanthropic sector to take audacious measures.