This timeline highlights Bill Gates's philanthropic activities, focusing on the creation and work of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
William H. Gates Foundation
1994
Bill Gates establishes the William H. Gates Foundation, initially focused on global health and education.
Gates Library Foundation
1997
Gates and Melinda French establish the Gates Library Foundation, aimed at providing access to computers and the Internet in public libraries.
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
2000
The William H. Gates Foundation and the Gates Learning Foundation merge to form the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, becoming one of the world's largest philanthropic organizations.
Focus Areas
Early 2000s
The Foundation focuses on global health, global development, and United States programs, addressing issues such as infectious diseases, poverty, education, and agriculture.
Warren Buffett's Donation
2006
Warren Buffett pledges to donate the bulk of his fortune to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, significantly increasing its resources and impact.
Global Health Initiatives
2000s-Present
The Foundation invests heavily in combating diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and polio. It supports research, vaccine development, and distribution programs.
Global Development Initiatives
2000s-Present
The Foundation works to improve agricultural productivity, sanitation, and financial services for the poor in developing countries.
US Education Initiatives
2000s-Present
The Foundation supports education reform efforts in the United States, focusing on improving teacher effectiveness, school leadership, and college readiness.
COVID-19 Response
2020-Present
The Foundation plays a crucial role in the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic, funding vaccine development, diagnostics, and treatments.
