Gates Foundation narrows priorities amid global aid cuts.

The Gates Foundation will concentrate at least 70% of its funding over the next 20 years on preventing maternal and child deaths and controlling key infectious diseases, and it plans to hold annual spending at about $9 billion for the next five years.

The Gates Foundation says it will not change course despite recent reductions in foreign aid and is actively narrowing its long-term priorities. The foundation will concentrate at least 70% of its funding over the next 20 years on ending preventable maternal and child deaths and on controlling key infectious diseases. A third goal divides poverty work between U.S. education and agriculture in lower-income countries. The foundation plans to hold spending at about $9 billion a year for the next five years and to pursue advocacy to restore donor engagement. Key facts: - The foundation will direct a minimum of 70% of its funding over the next 20 years toward preventing maternal and child deaths and controlling key infectious diseases. - It will keep its annual budget at roughly $9 billion for the next five years and expects to increase spending later to meet long-term commitments. - Some programs will be wound down, including initiatives on digital financial services access and a U.S. economic mobility program, while other work will continue in modified form, including partnerships using AI. - The foundation announced a planned closure in 20 years, has set a 14% cap on operating expenses, and anticipates reducing its workforce by 2030. Summary: The foundation has narrowed its focus to a small set of health and poverty-related goals and will maintain near-term spending levels while advocating for renewed donor funding. It will wind down selected programs and phase its work over the coming decades as it proceeds toward a planned closure in 20 years.