Bill Gates Admits He Might Have Funded Daughter Phoebe’s Business — But ‘Luckily’ She Never Asked

Bill Gates is one of the wealthiest and most influential entrepreneurs in the world. As the co-founder of Microsoft and a global philanthropist, many might assume that his children have unlimited financial support. However, in a recent interview, Bill revealed something surprising about his daughter Phoebe. He said he probably would have helped fund his daughter if she had asked—but luckily, she never did. This statement sparked curiosity about the relationship between Bill, his daughter Phoebe, and their approach to business and independence.

Gates Says He Would Fund His Daughter Phoebe’s Business—But She Never Asked

In a recent interview, Bill Gates said he probably would have helped fund his daughter Phoebe’s business if she had come to him. Instead, Phoebe decided to take a different path. She never asked her father for financial help, and that choice left Bill both surprised and proud. The comment gained attention not only for what it revealed about the Gates family but also for what it suggests about Phoebe’s independence.

Gates said he was prepared to offer support, but he wasn’t sure if he should push the idea. “She never brought it up,” Bill explained. “And luckily, she never asked.” His use of the word luckily suggests a sense of relief that Phoebe is finding her own way in the world of business. This also reflects how the Gates children, despite growing up in a wealthy family, are encouraged to pursue personal goals with limited reliance on their parents’ fortune.

Phoebe Gates and Her Entrepreneurial Journey

Phoebe, the youngest daughter of Bill and Melinda Gates, is already carving out a name for herself. While she’s mostly kept a low profile, she has shown growing interest in fashion, tech, and social causes. Although still early in her career, she has expressed interest in starting her own business.

Phoebe’s decision not to ask for funding from her billionaire father says a lot about her mindset. In a world where celebrity children often rely on family connections and money, Phoebe is taking a more grounded approach. Gates says her desire to lead her own efforts is both admirable and promising.

She currently studies in New York, a city known for its bustling startup and fashion scenes. Being in New York allows her to connect with young entrepreneurs and creatives, which could be vital for launching a successful business. Still, she has never openly confirmed launching a project yet, even though many speculate she may enter the tech or fashion industries.

Gates Also Said He Was Impressed by Her Independence

Gates also said that he admired how his daughter is handling her path. While he would fund his daughter Phoebe if needed, the fact that she hasn’t asked makes him feel that she is on the right track. “She’s smart, she’s ambitious, and she’s focused,” Gates said. “I’m proud of her.”

He also added that growing up in a household with strong role models like Melinda Gates contributed to Phoebe’s sense of self-direction. Melinda Gates, known for her advocacy and charitable work, has long spoken about empowering young women. It’s likely that her influence helped shape Phoebe’s decision to take charge of her own goals without relying on family wealth.

Living and studying in New York, surrounded by innovation and opportunity, seems to be fueling Phoebe’s creative energy. Her background, combined with her ambition, could lead her to launch a business that reflects her personality and values.

Why Bill Gates’ Comments Matter

When Bill Gates talks about his children, people listen. His thoughts on parenting and wealth have often made headlines. So when he said he “probably would have helped fund his daughter” if she asked, but luckily she never did, it showed a more personal side of him.

The statement also sparks a bigger conversation. Should children of billionaires receive automatic financial support for their business ideas? Or should they, like Phoebe, take the initiative to find their own way? Bill’s comments suggest that letting children navigate their own path can lead to more meaningful growth.

Melinda Gates has also encouraged their children to find purpose beyond wealth. That message appears to have resonated with Phoebe, who is pursuing her own interests in New York, and has never publicly discussed relying on her father’s fortune for a potential business.

Conclusion

Bill’s revelation that he probably would have helped fund his daughter if she had asked, but luckily she never did, gives insight into the Gates family dynamic. Phoebe is showing that she values independence over privilege. While Bill said he would fund his daughter Phoebe if she needed him, her decision to never ask speaks volumes.

As she continues her journey—possibly into the world of business—all eyes are on Phoebe. She represents a new kind of legacy, one not just built on wealth, but on values, drive, and independence. Whether she eventually starts a business or takes another path, it’s clear that both Bill and Melinda Gates are proud of the woman she is becoming.