The secret identity of the investor who help funded ResearchGate to the tune of $20 million has been revealed. The Wall Street Journal Germany is reporting that the private backer is none other than Microsoft founder Bill Gates.
The Microsoft founder joined other investors to put money behind a platform that allows researchers around the world to contact and collaborate with each other. The platform allows researchers to post findings and read each other’s research without worry about restrictions placed on their research by publishers.
The idea behind ResearchGate is to cut down on the duplication of scientific materials, while also helping scientists accelerate the pace of research while inspiring one another as they move towards common goals and technological advances.
ResearchGate has a funding-related press release scheduled to go out later this week. Neither Bill Gates nor ResearchGate are commenting on the $20 million funding round at this time.
Earlier funding for ResearchGate has included help from Benchmark Capital, Accel Partners and Founders Fund.
Glad he's using his money for good and to help other people.