The Global Reach of the Gates Foundation
Alyce Henson / Rotary Images
Nepal
In 2006, billionaire investor (and Bill Gates buddy) Warren Buffett effectively doubled the foundation's endowment by pledging $31 billion. Despite its massive wealth, the Foundation remains nimble: all it takes to move billions of dollars out the door is the approval of Bill and Melinda.
Get the Latest Photos from Time.com
Get TIME photos and pictures of the week delivered directly to your inbox.