Gates Foundation Plans Record $9 Billion Budget in 2026 with Staff Reductions Ahead of 2045 Closure

The Bill Melinda Gates Foundation plans a record $9 billion annual budget in 2026, marking the peak of a four-year spending increase as it prepares for closure by 2045. Despite this historic payout, the foundation will reduce its workforce by up to 500 staff over the next five years to cap operating expenses. Chair Bill Gates has also committed to investing an additional $200 billion before the foundation winds down, reflecting a strategic shift amid shrinking global aid budgets.