I think it just boils down to "space catches people's attention". Gates can get some articles written now and again when he signs a large check. But buying millions of mosquito nets doesn't sell papers like a new space-plane.
Similarly with people like Dean Kamen. He gets a bit of press now and again as he makes modest enhancements to the Luke arm. But stirling engines and water purifiers for the rest of the planet simply don't sell papers.
