
In the early days of Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT), Bill Gates credits his mother, Mary Gates, for playing a crucial role in securing a pivotal contract with IBM that set the stage for the company’s success.
What Happened: Mary Gates, a well-known businesswoman and board member of United Way of King County, used her connection with John Opel, then-chairman of IBM (NASDAQ:IBM), to help Microsoft land a significant contract in 1980, reported CNBC.