Gates Foundation unveils $9 billion 2026 budget and plans staff reductions

The Gates Foundation approved a record $9 billion budget for 2026 and set a cap on operating costs, while announcing plans to reduce up to 500 staff positions over the next five years.

The Gates Foundation approved its largest budget to date, planning to spend $9 billion in 2026 while also setting new limits on operating costs. The board approved a cap of $1.25 billion for operating expenses, roughly 14% of the budget. To meet that cap, the foundation said it may reduce its workforce by as many as 500 positions from about 2,375, with changes phased over several years and reviewed annually. The foundation said it will continue to prioritise areas such as maternal and child health, infectious disease prevention, vaccines, AI work and U.S. education, and it is expanding offices in India and Africa. Key details: - Budget: The foundation approved a record $9 billion spend for 2026, higher than the prior year’s $8.74 billion. - Operating cap and staffing: The board set an operating-cost cap of $1.25 billion (about 14% of the budget) and may reduce up to 500 of roughly 2,375 staff positions by 2030, with changes phased and reviewed annually. - Programme focus and footprint: The foundation plans increased funding for priorities such as maternal and child health, infectious disease prevention, vaccines and AI, and is expanding its presence in India and Africa, shifting some programme roles from its Seattle headquarters. Summary: The foundation has approved a larger spending plan while also cutting operating costs and shrinking parts of its workforce to align with a new operating-cost cap. The staffing reductions are to be implemented gradually and reviewed each year, with the stated maximum target of 500 roles to be reached by 2030; further details and timing remain under review.