Gates Foundation launches review of ties to Jeffrey Epstein

The Gates Foundation has announced it is investigating past engagements with the notorious sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein.

“In March, with the support of our Chair, Bill Gates, and our independent Governing Board members, Gates Foundation CEO Mark Suzman commissioned an external review to assess past foundation engagement with Epstein, and our current policies for vetting and developing new philanthropic partnerships,” the Gates Foundation stated.

In February, the U.S. Department of Justice’s release of more than three million Epstein files revealed that the Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates had connections to Epstein.

The Gates Foundation review is currently underway, and the board and management are expected to receive an update this summer.

Bill Gates apologizes to staff over Epstein connection, admits to affairs

Gates apologized to the foundation and its staff for his connection with Epstein, and admitted to affairs while married to his then-wife, Melinda Gates. Gates noted Epstein was aware of both affairs, but neither was involved with Epstein.

“I did nothing illicit. I saw nothing illicit,” Gates said, according to a town hall recording obtained by The Wall Street Journal.

In January, the Gates Foundation also announced its plans to cut up to 500 jobs, or roughly 20% of its staff, by 2030 as part of a long-term restructuring, according to Fox News.

The organization informed employees about the layoffs during discussions of its 2026 budget.

“This cap will reduce the foundation’s current headcount target of 2,375 positions by up to 500 positions by 2030, with targets and timelines to be calibrated on an annual basis,” the press release said.

Follow Jason Sutich on X. Send news tips here.