Bill Gates Donating 99% of His Wealth to Gates Foundation Before Closure in 2045
Bill Gates has announced a historic decision to donate almost all of his massive fortune to the Gates Foundation. On May 8, 2025, Gates revealed that he will give away 99% of his estimated $107 billion wealth to the foundation, which is expected to shut down by December 31, 2045.
This bold move will give the organization nearly $200 billion to spend over the next 20 years on major global issues like health, education, and poverty.
Gates Foundation’s Key Focus Areas
In the years leading up to its closure, the Gates Foundation will focus on three main goals:
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Preventing deaths among mothers and newborns
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Fighting infectious diseases across the globe
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Helping millions of people escape extreme poverty
These efforts are meant to create long-lasting impact, especially in countries where resources are limited and health systems are weak.
A Response to U.S. Global Health Cuts
Gates’ announcement comes at a time when the U.S. government is scaling back international health funding, including the shutdown of USAID and withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO).
By making this large-scale donation, Gates hopes to keep global health programs alive and encourage others to invest in solving worldwide challenges.
Strengthening Ties with Indonesia
Just days before the announcement, the Gates Foundation reaffirmed its partnership with Indonesia. During a high-level visit to Jakarta, the foundation promised to work closely with the country on improving healthcare, promoting innovation, and supporting inclusive growth.
This partnership is expected to play a big role in the foundation’s goals for the Asia-Pacific region.
Looking Ahead
Bill Gates has made it clear that he doesn’t want the foundation to last forever. Instead, he hopes it will make powerful, time-limited change. By the end of 2045, the Gates Foundation plans to have fully distributed its funds and completed its mission.
You can read the full announcement on the official Gates Foundation website.
