Mark Zuckerberg’s Bold Pledge: 90% Wealth Donation Hailed By Bill Gates
By Business Connect Magazine | Published: May 17, 2025
In a remarkable testament to the evolving culture of philanthropy, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has lauded Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg for his commitment to donate 90% of his wealth through the Chan-Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI). This announcement, shared by Gates in a recent Fortune interview, underscores a growing trend among tech billionaires to leverage their fortunes for global good, with Zuckerberg emerging as a key figure in the next generation of philanthropists.
Zuckerberg’s Philanthropic Vision
Mark Zuckerberg, whose net worth is estimated at $208 billion by Bloomberg’s Billionaires Index, has been channeling his wealth into the CZI since its inception in 2015. Launched with his wife, Priscilla Chan, the initiative focuses on personalized learning, curing diseases, connecting communities, and addressing systemic inequities. Gates praised Zuckerberg’s early progress, stating, “He’s off to a very good start,” and highlighted their frequent discussions on philanthropy.
The CZI has already made significant strides, investing in education reform, scientific research, and social justice initiatives. Unlike traditional foundations, the CZI operates as a limited liability company, allowing flexibility to fund for-profit ventures, lobbying, and direct grants. This innovative approach has enabled impactful projects, such as funding for Biohub, a medical research collaborative, and substantial contributions to education in underserved communities.
Gates’ Endorsement and the Giving Pledge
Bill Gates, a pioneer in modern philanthropy, has himself pledged to donate 99% of his $108 billion fortune through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which will close by 2045. In his comments, Gates emphasized the broader movement of tech entrepreneurs joining the Giving Pledge—a campaign he co-founded with Warren Buffett and Melinda French Gates in 2010 to encourage billionaires to give away most of their wealth. “There are dozens and dozens of tech entrepreneurs in the Giving Pledge doing amazing giving,” Gates noted, citing Zuckerberg as an exemplar.
The Giving Pledge, with over 240 signatories, reflects a shift in how the ultra-wealthy view their legacies. Zuckerberg’s commitment, announced when his daughter Max was born in 2015, aligns with this ethos. He and Chan pledged to give away 99% of their Facebook shares—then valued at $45 billion—over their lifetimes, a promise that continues to guide their philanthropy.
A New Era of Giving
Gates’ praise comes at a pivotal moment. The Gates Foundation, marking its 25th anniversary in 2025, plans to disburse $200 billion over the next 20 years to combat global health issues, poverty, and education disparities, before shutting down. Gates’ decision to accelerate his giving, inspired by Andrew Carnegie’s 1889 essay The Gospel of Wealth, reflects a sense of urgency amid global challenges like declining foreign aid and rising economic headwinds.
Zuckerberg’s early entry into large-scale philanthropy, at a relatively young age, sets him apart. Unlike many billionaires who wait until later in life, Zuckerberg’s proactive approach has earned him recognition as a trailblazer. Posts on X echo this sentiment, with users like @Sandy5Suzi sharing Gates’ commendation and sparking discussions on the impact of tech-driven charity.
Latest Updates
As of May 17, 2025, Zuckerberg continues to advance CZI’s mission, with recent investments in AI-driven medical research and equitable education programs. Gates, in his 70th year, remains optimistic about the role of technology, particularly AI, in amplifying philanthropic outcomes. However, both face challenges as global aid budgets shrink, prompting calls for private philanthropy to fill critical gaps.
Business Connect’s Take
At Business Connect Magazine, we see Zuckerberg’s pledge and Gates’ endorsement as a clarion call for businesses to integrate social impact into their core strategies. The convergence of wealth, technology, and purpose offers unprecedented opportunities to address global challenges. As tech leaders redefine philanthropy, companies must follow suit, fostering innovation that uplifts communities and drives sustainable progress.
Join the conversation and share your views on this transformative wave of giving!
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