The TED Interview

How Bill Gates spends $9 billion a year

Mar 21, 2024
Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, discusses his philanthropy philosophy and challenges. They delve into The Giving Pledge, efficient problem-solving, and inspiring collective excitement for giving back. Topics include global health impact, vaccines, unintended consequences, and the joy of impactful giving.
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ANECDOTE

Early Philanthropic Influences

  • Bill Gates' parents instilled a philanthropic spirit in him through volunteering with organizations like the United Way.
  • However, his early career at Microsoft consumed him until he stepped down as CEO.
INSIGHT

Motivation for Philanthropy

  • Bill Gates' motivation for philanthropy wasn't solely reputational.
  • He finds the work intellectually stimulating, akin to his time at Microsoft.
ANECDOTE

Aha Moment: Vaccines

  • A Nick Kristof article on rotavirus deaths among children spurred Gates to investigate vaccine costs.
  • Discovering vaccines could be produced for under $1, he realized the potential impact of philanthropy.
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