Global Philanthropists to Gather in New York for 2025 Bloomberg Philanthropies Global Forum./Photo; AI
Bloomberg Philanthropies has unveiled the first slate of speakers and program updates for its 2025 Global Forum, which will return to New York on September 24, coinciding with the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
The event will convene dozens of heads of state, CEOs, and global leaders to explore the next era of international cooperation, strengthen collaboration, unlock growth, and deliver tangible impact.
The Forum’s discussions will focus on economic growth, public health, energy security, and innovation, with a particular spotlight on Africa as a hub for investment and infrastructure ahead of the G20 Summit in South Africa this November.
Confirmed Speakers Include:
- Michael R. Bloomberg – UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy on Climate Ambition and Solutions, WHO Global Ambassador for Noncommunicable Diseases and Injuries, and Founder of Bloomberg Philanthropies and Bloomberg L.P.
- Ajay Banga – President, World Bank Group
- Bill Gates – Chair, Gates Foundation
- Henry M. Paulson – Former U.S. Secretary of the Treasury and Chair, Paulson Institute
- Djimon Hounsou – Actor and Founder, Djimon Hounsou Foundation
- Chiney Ogwumike – Two-Time WNBA All-Star and Multi-Platform Host and Analyst
- Adam Silver – NBA Commissioner
- Dr. Sidi Ould Tah – President, African Development Bank Group
- Masai Ujiri – Co-Founder, Giants of Africa and Zaria Group
- Shemara Wikramanayake – Managing Director and CEO, Macquarie Group
Additional speakers will be announced in the coming weeks.
Previous forums hosted by Bloomberg Philanthropies alongside UNGA have included the Bloomberg Global Business Forum, the Earthshot Prize Innovation Summit, and the U.S.-Africa Business Forum, which have welcomed more than 50 heads of state, 250 global CEOs, and influential leaders from finance, technology, policy, academia, and the nonprofit sector.
Building on this track record, the 2025 Forum will feature keynote conversations, high-level panels, announcements, roundtables, and bilateral meetings among global leaders.
What to Expect from the Gathering
The 2025 Bloomberg Philanthropies Global Forum will bring together heads of state, global business leaders, and philanthropists to discuss pressing global challenges. Based on available information, the Forum will focus on:
- Key Global Themes: Discussions on economic growth, public health, energy security, and innovation.
- Africa Spotlight: Emphasis on Africa as a hub for investment and infrastructure development ahead of the G20 Summit in South Africa this November.
- Networking Opportunities: While the detailed agenda has not been released, previous forums indicate opportunities for leaders to connect, share insights, and explore potential collaborations.
Note: Specific session topics, panels, or announcements have not been publicly confirmed yet.
The Forum is expected to continue Bloomberg Philanthropies’ tradition of convening influential leaders to advance global cooperation and impact.
Event Details:
- Date: Wednesday, September 24, 2025
- Time: 8:00 am–3:00 pm ET (Main plenary: 9:30–11:00 am ET)
- Location: The Plaza Hotel, New York City
- Media: Credentialed press may attend; credentials can be requested here.
About Bloomberg Philanthropies
Bloomberg Philanthropies invests in 700 cities and 150 countries to ensure better, longer lives for as many people as possible.
Its work focuses on five areas: the Arts, Education, Environment, Government Innovation, and Public Health.
The organization encompasses all of Michael R. Bloomberg’s giving, including his foundation, corporate, and personal philanthropy, as well as Bloomberg Associates, a philanthropic consultancy advising cities worldwide. In 2024, Bloomberg Philanthropies distributed $3.7 billion.
