The Bill Gates Foundation met with Jeffrey Epstein roughly 30 times between 2011 and 2014, according to an external review commissioned by the foundation. The review, conducted by law firm WilmerHale, examined the foundation's past engagements with Epstein after renewed scrutiny from the release of millions of documents related to Epstein's case.
Key Findings of the Gates Foundation Epstein Review
The review, based on over 50 interviews with current and former foundation personnel including Bill Gates, found no evidence of participation in or knowledge of Epstein's sex trafficking operations. It also found no evidence that Epstein was paid by the foundation or that the foundation was aware of Epstein using its name to advance his conduct.
Number of Meetings and Timeline
The report documented roughly 30 meetings between Epstein and foundation leaders and staff, including Gates, from 2011 to 2014. Despite staff raising concerns about associating with Epstein due to his prior conviction, the interactions continued.
| Aspect | Finding |
|---|---|
| Meetings with Epstein | Roughly 30 between 2011-2014 |
| Foundation knowledge of crimes | No evidence found |
| Payments to Epstein | None found |
| Epstein using foundation name | No contemporaneous awareness |
Why the Review Was Commissioned
The Gates Foundation commissioned the review in March 2024 after the Justice Department released millions of documents related to Epstein. These files included numerous references to Gates, several photographs, and records of multiple meetings, prompting public scrutiny.
Foundation's Response
The foundation stated it regrets any employees interacting with Epstein and has publicly apologized. Bill Gates has repeatedly denied knowledge of Epstein's crimes and expressed regret over the association.
Key Takeaways from the Report
- Roughly 30 meetings occurred between Epstein and Gates Foundation staff from 2011-2014.
- No evidence of foundation involvement in Epstein's criminal activities.
- No payments from the foundation to Epstein were found.
- Staff raised concerns about Epstein's background before meetings.
- The review took five months and included interviews with Bill Gates.
Implications for Philanthropy and Leadership
This review highlights the importance of due diligence for philanthropic organizations when engaging with controversial figures. The Gates Foundation's transparency in commissioning and releasing this report may set a precedent for other large nonprofits facing similar scrutiny.
FAQ
How many times did Bill Gates meet with Jeffrey Epstein?
The external review found roughly 30 meetings between Epstein and Gates Foundation leaders and staff, including Bill Gates, between 2011 and 2014.
Did the Gates Foundation know about Epstein's crimes?
The WilmerHale review found no evidence that the foundation had knowledge of Epstein's ongoing sex trafficking operations or criminal activities during the period of engagement.
Did the Gates Foundation pay Jeffrey Epstein?
No, the review found no evidence that Epstein was paid by the Gates Foundation for any services or interactions.