Phoebe Gates Is Ready to Launch—But Mom and Dad Say Not Yet
Phoebe Gates, daughter of tech titan Bill Gates and philanthropist Melinda French Gates, isn’t just sitting on a family legacy—she’s building her own. While many billionaire heirs opt for a life of leisure, Phoebe has expressed a fierce passion for entrepreneurship, sustainability, and social impact. But there’s one catch: her parents won’t let her drop out of college.
College First, Startup Later
Phoebe Gates is currently a student at Stanford University, one of the top institutions in the world. While she’s openly excited about launching a startup, sources close to the Gates family have said that Bill and Melinda are firm about her finishing her education before leaping into full-time entrepreneurship.
This might sound surprising coming from Bill Gates—who famously dropped out of Harvard to co-found Microsoft—but the Gates parents are known for grounding their children in discipline and humility, despite their immense wealth.
What Kind of Startup Is She Planning?
Though details are scarce, Phoebe has hinted that her interests lie at the intersection of:
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Women’s health and reproductive rights
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Sustainable fashion
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Social entrepreneurship
She’s spoken publicly about using her platform to champion equity, climate action, and innovation, often attending high-profile events like Paris Fashion Week and tech summits—not just as a guest, but as a voice for change.
Related: How Much of Microsoft Does Bill Gates Own?
Related: Bill Gates’s Midcentury Modern Home in Medina Hits the Market for $4.9M
Why Phoebe Gates Stands Out
Unlike many celebrity kids or trust fund heirs, Phoebe Gates is carving out her own identity through meaningful action and advocacy. While studying at Stanford, she takes on internships and work opportunities, showing a grounded work ethic. On social media, she actively highlights global issues rather than simply showcasing a glamorous lifestyle. She’s a vocal advocate for Gen Z women in STEM and business, using her platform to champion equity, sustainability, and innovation. Phoebe is clearly building her brand on purpose—not privilege.
Related: The Next Generation of Gates: What Are Bill Gates' Kids Doing in 2025?
Related: Melinda Gates: Life Before Marrying Bill Gates
Conclusion
Phoebe Gates may be one of the world’s most high-profile heiresses, but she’s not cutting corners. While her startup dreams are burning bright, she’s honoring her parents’ wishes by earning her degree first—a balance of ambition and discipline that just might be her greatest asset yet.
