Paul Allen, the co-founder of Microsoft, has embraced a widely varied philanthropic philosophy that differentiates him from his more narrowly focused partner, Bill Gates, according to a profile of Mr. Allen in The Seattle Times.

Mr. Allen almost exclusively provides money for projects in the Pacific Northwest, and often blends charity work with for-profit efforts, so-called “venture philanthropy.”

Mr. Allen has produced documentary films that highlight social causes and controversies, such as intelligent design and mental-health problems. The long profile also cites his interest in supporting arts groups.

Read The Chronicle’s annual survey of the biggest donors of the year, a list on which Mr. Allen regularly appears.