MacKenzie Scott, former wife of Jeff Bezos, renowned philanthropist and billionaire author, continues to reshape the nonprofit landscape with her donations. In 2024, she donated approximately $2 billion, bringing her total contributions since 2019 to $19.2 billion. Her visionary and innovative approach, combining traditional philanthropy with socially responsible investments, has become the hallmark of her actions.
Most of the funds, often granted without restrictions, are aimed at improving economic security and creating opportunities. This year, for the first time, Scott introduced an application process for granting funds, distributing $640 million to over 360 organizations.
Alongside direct donations Scott unveiled a new strategy: allocating part of her wealth to “mission-aligned projects.” This model channels resources toward for-profit companies committed to addressing social challenges. As explained in a blog post, her advisors are tasked with targeting companies that not only generate profits but also deliver lasting positive impacts.
A central aspect of her reflection focuses on the meaning of the term “investing.” For Scott, it represents an action that must return to its semantic roots: “dedicating resources to a useful purpose.” This idea also surfaces in her approach to supporting nonprofit organizations, favoring those capable of maximizing impact through flexible and unrestricted funds.
Scott’s approach is having transformative effects across entire sectors. Shaun Donovan, CEO of Enterprise Community Partners, highlighted the impact of the grants received: an initial contribution of $50 million in 2020 and another $65 million in 2024 strengthened the organization and redefined how the affordable housing sector tackles its challenges.
According to Gabrielle Fitzgerald, philanthropy expert and founder of the Panorama Group platform, Scott’s donations are an important example for other major benefactors. However, she notes that few have adopted a similar method, despite its evident effectiveness.
Just five years into her mission, Scott’s impact is now tangible. Over 2,450 organizations have benefited from her support, and sectors related to education, healthcare, and housing have undergone structural changes thanks to her contributions.
Despite already donating $19.2 billion, the philanthropist retains an estimated wealth of $31.7 billion, demonstrating that a significant and lasting process, free of bureaucratic constraints, is indeed possible.
