Overview

• An internal June 24 memo said the foundation will make no new investments with Arabella-related entities, will not extend certain existing grants, and will seek early exits from some long-term commitments.
• The Gates Foundation has disbursed or pledged about $450 million to Arabella-administered funds over 16 years, including a $41 million women's health grant to the New Venture Fund in November.
• A spokesperson called the change a business decision intended to build deeper relationships with program partners and reduce reliance on intermediaries.
• Arabella executives say the firm does not make grants or engage in political activity and provides operational support; New Venture Fund’s president said Gates funding comprised about 2% of its budget last year.
• Some nonprofits connected to Arabella have explored alternative fiscal sponsors to maintain ties with Gates or mitigate risk, according to reports citing concerns about possible federal scrutiny.