MacKenzie Scott Donates $7.1 Billion to Nonprofits in 2025
UPDATE: Philanthropist and author MacKenzie Scott has just announced a groundbreaking donation of $7.1 billion to nonprofits in 2025, marking an unprecedented surge in her annual giving. This figure represents a notable increase from the $2.6 billion she donated in 2024 and $2.1 billion in 2023, bringing her total philanthropic contributions since 2019 to a staggering $26.3 billion.
In a compelling essay published on her website, Scott emphasized that while the dollar amount will attract media headlines, the true impact lies in the community-level care fostered by these donations. “This dollar total will likely be reported in the news, but any dollar amount is a vanishingly tiny fraction of the personal expressions of care being shared into communities this year,” Scott stated.
Scott’s donations have drawn significant attention due to their unrestricted nature, allowing nonprofits to utilize the funds as they see fit. Notably, more than a dozen historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) revealed they collectively received $783 million from Scott this year alone. According to Marybeth Gasman, a Rutgers University professor and HBCU expert, Scott’s latest contributions to these institutions outpace her previous gifts made in 2020.
In addition to the HBCUs, the UNCF (United Negro College Fund) received $70 million, which will be invested in a collective endowment for participating HBCUs. The Native Forward Scholars Fund also benefited, securing $50 million to support Native American students pursuing higher education.
Unlike traditional philanthropy that often requires grant applications and progress reports, Scott’s approach is refreshingly straightforward. Organizations typically receive notifications of their awards with minimal advance warning, enhancing the element of surprise and urgency.
Kim Mazzuca, CEO of 10,000 Degrees, expressed her astonishment upon learning of a $42 million gift from Scott, nearly double their annual budget. “I was just filled with such joy. I was speechless,” she said, reflecting the transformative potential of such a substantial donation. Her organization aims to provide scholarships and support to low-income students, and this unexpected funding will allow them to expand their reach significantly.
Scott’s donations are not just about monetary contributions; they embody a philosophy of empowerment. Mazzuca highlighted Scott’s intention to provide financial means as tools for communities to recognize their own potential, referencing a Hopi prophecy, “We are the ones we’ve been waiting for.” This sentiment resonates deeply with Scott’s approach to philanthropy, encouraging recipients to utilize the funds in innovative and impactful ways.
Additionally, Scott’s commitment to “mission aligned” investments is evident as she continues to allocate more of her wealth into initiatives that prioritize social impact over mere financial return. In her recent essay, she urged readers to consider the various ways they can influence the world around them.
As of now, Scott’s philanthropic efforts are poised to create a ripple effect across communities, with nonprofits adapting and thriving in ways that could redefine their futures. The urgency of her contributions highlights a shift in philanthropic practices, pushing for greater equity and support where it is most needed.
Stay tuned for further updates as Scott’s donations continue to shape the landscape of philanthropy and make a lasting impact on communities nationwide.
