Gates Foundation to open Singapore office
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5th May 2025 – (Singapore) The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is set to establish a new office in Singapore, signalling a strategic move to enhance its philanthropic efforts in Asia. The announcement was made by Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates at the Philanthropy Asia Summit 2025 on Monday, underscoring the foundation’s commitment to leveraging Singapore’s robust research ecosystem and fostering collaborations within the region.
The new office aims to serve as a hub for accessing scientific advancements, partnering with the philanthropic community, and tapping into ongoing research initiatives within Singapore. The Economic Development Board (EDB) is providing support for the foundation’s establishment in the city-state.
“Singapore’s strategic location and research ecosystem make it a strong platform for advancing healthcare, fintech and (artificial intelligence) innovations that can deliver meaningful impact across the region and the world,” said Jermaine Loy, managing director of the EDB, in a statement.
Founded in 2000, the Gates Foundation has been a prominent force in global philanthropy, focusing on improving global health, expanding access to education, and promoting inclusive economic growth. The decision to establish a presence in Singapore aligns with the foundation’s broader strategy of working closely with countries and partners to improve lives and accelerate progress toward achieving sustainable development goals.
Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who met with Mr. Gates on Monday, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration. “Singapore looks forward to working closely with the Gates Foundation to advance innovation and improve lives – here in Asia and around the world,” Mr. Wong shared in a Facebook post. He noted that their discussion covered a range of critical issues, from clean energy solutions to vaccine development.
Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong also met with Mr. Gates, discussing potential collaborations between the Gates Foundation and local entities such as Temasek Trust and Singapore’s universities. “We welcome the Gates Foundation and others to continue to bring their businesses and interests here to Singapore and invest in our ecosystem and deepen our ties with the region,” Mr. Lee stated in a Facebook post.
In response to inquiries, the Gates Foundation affirmed its commitment to the region. “A Singapore presence will strengthen global health and development partnerships across the Southeast Asian region, enhance cross-border collaboration, and reinforce Singapore’s important role in innovation and philanthropy in the region,” the foundation said.
The foundation is currently navigating the legal and regulatory requirements for establishing its Singapore office and plans to release further details regarding staffing and operational plans once finalized.
Shaun Seow, CEO of the Philanthropy Asia Alliance, highlighted the importance of collaboration between Asian and global philanthropists at the summit. “We really want to make sure … that global philanthropists understand what’s happening in Asia,” Mr. Seow said, emphasising the mutual benefits of such partnerships.