Paul Allen pledges philanthropy for ever

Microsoft's other founder, Paul Allen, promised his philanthropy will continue after his death while announcing a series of grants to mark the 20th anniversary of his charitable foundation.

Allen makes most of his grants to non-profits in the Pacific North West, where he lives. His foundation has donated more than $400m since 1990 and Allen has made personal donations of $600m to non-profits he's started including the Allen Institute for Brain Science and the Experience Music Project.

Allen said he was proud of the work already accomplished but there was more to do.

He said: “Today I also want to announce that my philanthropic efforts will continue after my lifetime.  I’ve planned for many years now that the majority of my estate will be left to philanthropy to continue the work of the Foundation and to fund non-profit scientific research, like the ground breaking work being done at the Allen Institute for Brain Science.  As our philanthropy continues in the years ahead, we will look for new opportunities to make a difference in the lives of future generations.”

The Foundation has five areas of focus: helping the arts, engaging children in learning, advancing technological and scientific discoveries, helping vulnerable populations and economic help in tough times.

The group also made five special grants to non-profit founders to mark the anniversary. These went to: Rachel Bristol, founder of Oregon Food Bank; Bridget Cooke, founder of Adelante Mujeres; Jeanne Harmon, founder of the Center for Strengthening the Teaching Profession; Myra Platt and Jane Jones, founders of Book-It Repertory Theatre; and Ken Stuart, founder of Seattle Biomedical Research Institute.

They get $20,000 each to help their work. ®